When I first made this spicy Korean chicken recipe, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare something so rich in flavor. The combination of tender chicken coated in a flavorful, mildly spicy sauce is truly addictive! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. After just one bite, I knew it would become a regular in my home. Now, I’m excited to share everything you need to know to make it yourself!
Credit: khinskitchen
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe works together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and aromatic. Here’s what you need and my tips for each:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Chicken thighs are succulent and juicy, but you can also use chicken breasts for a leaner option. - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
This helps the marinade bind to the chicken and ensures even cooking. - 1 1/2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
This is the star ingredient! It brings in spice, sweetness, and that iconic umami flavor. - 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) or regular chili flakes
These flakes add a touch of eye-catching red color and adjustable heat. - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
This adds a salty depth of flavor that balances the spice. - 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
Sugar balances the heat and creates a perfect caramelized glaze when the chicken cooks. - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
It provides a nutty aroma and enhances the Korean flavors. - 1-inch ginger, peeled and minced
Ginger adds warmth and a slight zing to the marinade. - 3 garlic cloves, minced
Garlic brings depth and richness to every bite.
Note: This recipe yields 4 servings. Adjust the quantities proportionally if you’re cooking for a larger crowd.
Variations
Looking to switch things up? Here are some ideas to make this recipe suit your needs:
- Dairy-Free Option: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no changes are needed if you’re avoiding dairy.
- Sugar-Free: Replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or erythritol to create a sugar-free alternative.
- Extra Spice: Add finely diced Thai chili peppers or increase the gochugaru for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Twist: Marinate tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken for a plant-based version.
If you enjoy bold flavors, you can also explore this easy orange chicken recipe for another delicious option.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need to whip up this spicy Korean chicken:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Sharp knife: For slicing the chicken.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the marinade ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure the marinade is smooth and well combined.
- Baking sheet or skillet: For cooking the chicken.
- Tongs: To flip the chicken as it cooks.
How to Make Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe?
Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken thighs horizontally to create thinner pieces. If they’re thick, cut each one into two or three smaller slices. This will help the chicken cook evenly and soak up all the delicious marinade. Set the prepared chicken aside.
Make the Marinade
Whisk together the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic in a mixing bowl. Make sure the mixture is smooth and that the sugar is well dissolved. Once the marinade is ready, toss in the sliced chicken. Coat the chicken thoroughly, ensuring every piece is covered. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, leave it for up to 2 hours.
Cook the Chicken
If you’re grilling, preheat the grill and cook the chicken until slightly charred and fully cooked. Flip them once to ensure they cook evenly. If grilling isn’t an option, pan-frying or baking works just as well. To pan-fry, heat a skillet with a bit of oil and cook the chicken over medium heat. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (207°C) and bake for about 20 minutes. Whichever method you choose, you’ll achieve delicious results!
Credit: thatcutedish
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some tips I’ve learned while making this dish that can help you get the best results:
- Always marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, 2 hours is ideal to deepen the flavors.
- Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets a beautiful char.
- Use freshly minced garlic and ginger for the best aroma and taste.
- Don’t skip the gochujang! It’s the key ingredient that gives this dish its authentic Korean flavor.
- If you’re grilling on an outdoor barbecue, a slight char on the chicken enhances the smoky flavor.
If you’re a fan of chicken dishes, you can also enjoy similar recipes like Buldak Korean Fire Chicken for a spicy twist.
How to Serve Spicy Korean Chicken?
This spicy Korean chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of steamed white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a vibrant touch. It’s also delicious alongside stir-fried veggies or a simple cucumber salad to balance the heat. If you’re hosting a dinner party, present it on a platter with a drizzle of extra marinade as a glaze for an irresistible presentation!
Nutritional Information
This flavorful dish is also a balanced meal. Here are the main nutritional facts per serving:
- Calories: 263
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 15g
Make Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead
You can prepare and marinate the chicken the night before. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Freezing
Cooked chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating
To reheat, use a skillet on low heat or pop it in the microwave. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this dish is a must-try:
- Quick to Make: The recipe is simple, with short prep and cooking times.
- Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the heat to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully for easy meals all week.
- Full of Flavor: The tangy, sweet, and spicy marinade creates a bold and delicious experience.
With these steps and tips, you’ll have no trouble making your own irresistible spicy Korean chicken. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress, whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd. Happy cooking!
For more inspiration, check out these chicken recipes to expand your culinary repertoire.