When I first made Buldak, or Korean Fire Chicken, I knew I was in for a treat. The irresistible combination of spicy marinated chicken and gooey melted mozzarella cheese blew me away. It’s more than just a meal – it’s an experience. This dish is a perfect balance of intense heat and creamy comfort, and it’s surprisingly easy to create at home. If you love bold, spicy dishes with a touch of indulgence, then Buldak is your new best friend.
Credit: omnivorescookbook
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this flavor-packed dish:
- Chicken (2 pounds): Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or breasts for a leaner option. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Gochugaru (¼ cup): Korean chili flakes that bring authentic heat and vibrant red color. These are a must for the perfect Buldak.
- Gochujang (¼ cup): Fermented Korean chili paste adds heat, sweetness, and an umami depth. Choose mild or hot versions based on your spice preference.
- Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons): Contributes a salty, umami balance to the fiery marinade.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): A touch of sweetness that mellows the heat. You can substitute with rice syrup or corn syrup.
- Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a nutty aroma and richness, but a little goes a long way.
- Garlic (6 cloves, finely chopped): Brings a pungent, savory depth to the dish.
- Ginger (1 tablespoon, finely chopped): Adds freshness and zing to balance the flavors.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Enhances the heat and rounds out the marinade.
- Neutral Oil (1.5 tablespoons): Use vegetable or canola oil for cooking.
- Water (¼ cup): Keeps the chicken moist during cooking. Skip it if you prefer a drier version.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz, shredded): This creamy topping balances the heat with its melty goodness.
- Scallions (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
Note: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
Variations to Try
Here are a few creative spins if you want to switch it up:
- Grilled Buldak: Grill the marinated chicken for that smoky flavor, then top it with cheese and melt it in a skillet.
- Less Spicy Version: Reduce the gochugaru and gochujang, and add extra honey or sugar to mellow the heat.
- Air-Fryer Option: Marinate and air-fry the chicken at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, then melt the cheese in a separate oven-proof dish.
- Rice Cakes: Add chewy Korean rice cakes (garaetteok) for an extra layer of texture.
- Extra Cheesy Buldak: Double the cheese layer for an indulgent, gooey bite in every piece.
For a similar one-pot meal, you might enjoy this One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, which is equally flavorful and easy to prepare.
Cooking Time
This dish is easy and quick to whip up. Here’s how long it takes:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Equipment You Need
You likely already have most of these tools in your kitchen! Here’s what you need:
- Mixing Bowl: To combine ingredients and marinate the chicken.
- Cast-Iron Skillet or Oven-Proof Pan: Perfect for cooking the chicken and broiling the cheese.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping chicken, garlic, and ginger.
- Grater: If you’re shredding mozzarella from a block.
- Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and spreading ingredients evenly.
How to Make Buldak (Korean Fire Chicken)?
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the flavorful marinade. Combine gochugaru, gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. This fiery blend is what gives Buldak its signature heat and depth. The aroma of sesame oil and the chili paste is irresistible!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated. If you have the time, marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to absorb deeply into the chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to get a nice sear, then stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Water and Simmer
Pour in the water and mix well. This helps create a richer sauce for the chicken. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Broil with Cheese
Preheat your oven to broil. Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, top it generously with shredded mozzarella. Place the skillet under the broiler and toast for just 2-3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns golden. Watch it closely during this step to avoid burning the cheese.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped scallions over the gooey, cheesy chicken. They add a fresh burst of flavor and a pop of color. Serve the Buldak immediately for the ultimate taste experience.
Credit: omnivorescookbook
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some of my favorite tips to make your Buldak absolutely perfect:
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate mozzarella from a block for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of gochugaru and gochujang based on your spice tolerance.
- Marinate Longer: If you can plan ahead, marinating overnight makes the chicken even more flavorful.
- Focus on Chicken Thighs: They’re juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked compared to breasts.
- Stay Alert While Broiling: The cheese melts quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.
For more chicken-based dishes, check out this Chicken Scampi Recipe, which offers a delightful twist on classic flavors.
How to Serve Buldak (Korean Fire Chicken)?
Buldak is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving! Pair it with steamed white rice to help balance the heat. You could also serve it over noodles or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun presentation, sprinkle sesame seeds or drizzle additional sesame oil before serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a cold beer to complement the spice.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not just delicious, but also packed with protein. Here’s the basic nutrition rundown (per serving):
- Calories: 468
- Protein: 46g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 25g
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare and enjoy Buldak later, here’s how:
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cooked and cooled chicken for up to 2 months. Skip the cheese topping if freezing and add it when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the dish in a skillet over low heat or in the oven. Add extra cheese before reheating for an extra indulgent touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This dish has something for everyone. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:
- Packed with Flavor: The spicy, savory marinade is balanced perfectly with creamy cheese.
- Perfectly Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or add unique twists.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes total, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dinner in no time.
- Great for Gatherings: A perfect dish to wow your guests with a spicy kick.
- Authentic Korean Flair: Experience bold Korean flavors right in your own kitchen!
Buldak (Korean Fire Chicken) is a must-try for spice enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Whether you keep it fiery-hot or tone it down, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a shot and enjoy the bold flavors of Korea from the comfort of your home! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.