Spicy Korean Chicken

The first time I tried Spicy Korean Chicken, I was instantly hooked. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something that packed a punch without taking hours in the kitchen. I stumbled upon this recipe, and within no time, my kitchen was filled with the tantalizing aromas of marinated chicken mingling with aromatic spices. It was incredible how just a handful of simple ingredients could create such a bold, flavorful dish. With its fiery kick and luscious sauce, Spicy Korean Chicken quickly became my go-to dish for bustling weeknights and cozy gatherings alike. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the table.

Ingredient List for Spicy Korean Chicken

When it comes to cooking, the ingredients make all the difference. For Spicy Korean Chicken, each component plays a vital role in creating that signature bold flavor. From the spicy gochujang to the savory soy sauce, these ingredients work harmoniously together, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

• ⅓ cup gochujang sauce: This fermented chili paste adds heat and depth to the dish, serving as the foundation for its bold flavor profile.
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce: Enhances the savory components while keeping the sodium levels in check.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness that beautifully complements the other flavors.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Provides a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar: This sweet element helps to round the flavors out while caramelizing beautifully in the pan.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger: Freshens the dish and adds a warmth unlike any other.
• 4 to 5 cloves garlic: Finely minced or pressed, these add aromatic depth and a hint of sweetness.
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces, this lean protein cooks quickly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying, it enhances the flavors of the chicken and prevents sticking.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, providing a luscious texture.
• 1 scant teaspoon cold water: Added to the cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening.
• green onions: Diced into thin rounds for garnishing; they bring a fresh, crisp note.
• sesame seeds: For garnishing, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Spicy Korean Chicken Instructions

Cooking Spicy Korean Chicken is a delightful process that comes together in simple steps. Follow along as I guide you through creating this flavorful dish from start to finish!

1. Begin by preparing a large bowl. Add the gochujang sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ground ginger, and garlic. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined, creating a beautiful, rich marinade.
2. Next, take your diced chicken and add it to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate. Ideally, let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for a deeper flavor, you can leave it for up to 8 hours.
3. Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, use a slotted spoon to transfer the marinated chicken into the skillet, discarding the leftover marinade.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, flipping intermittently to ensure even cooking. You want it to be golden brown and cooked through. As it cooks, enjoy the enticing aromas that fill your kitchen!
5. While the chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl. Add the cornstarch and cold water, stirring until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This will be your thickening agent for the sauce.
6. After the chicken is fully cooked, add the cornstarch slurry to the side of the pan. Don’t dump it over the chicken—this ensures an even coating of sauce. Turn the heat to medium-low and gently stir the slurry into the sauce.
7. Keep stirring for about 1 to 2 minutes, watching as the sauce thickens to your desired level. You’ll notice a nice glossy finish as it coats the chicken beautifully.
8. Remove the pan from the heat and add in the diced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
9. Serve the Spicy Korean Chicken immediately. It’s best enjoyed warm and fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recipe Tips about Spicy Korean Chicken

Here are some tips to make your cooking experience even better when preparing Spicy Korean Chicken. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these pointers will help you master this dish.

• Storage: Leftover Spicy Korean Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s well-sealed, and it will last for about 3 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the heat.
• Spicing It Up: If you enjoy extra heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the marinade.
• Serving Style: For a fun presentation, serve Spicy Korean Chicken in lettuce cups with fresh herbs.
• Cooking in Batches: If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. It’s easy to make more with minimal effort.

What Complements This Spicy Korean Chicken

When it comes to serving Spicy Korean Chicken, there are numerous options to explore. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• Serve with Steamed Rice: This classic pairing helps to balance the spice and absorbs all the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy dressing complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.
• Wraps or Lettuce Cups: Serve the chicken in lettuce wraps for a lighter, refreshing option. Add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted or stir-fried vegetables make a great side to add more nutrients and color to your plate.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them within 5 days for the best taste and texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

Spicy Korean Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings bold flavors and warm comfort to your table. With its quick preparation and delightful taste, it has the potential to become a family favorite. I highly encourage you to try this recipe; it’s the perfect way to spice up your weeknight dinners!

Spicy Korean Chicken

Craving something exciting? This Spicy Korean Chicken is your answer! With its fiery kick and savory sauce, it's an easy weeknight dinner that brings bold flavors to your table. Make it tonight for an unforgettable meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Korean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup gochujang sauce
• ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar packed
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 4 to 5 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts diced into bite sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 scant teaspoon cold water
• green onions diced into thin rounds for garnishing
• sesame seeds for garnishing

Instructions

 

• Begin by preparing a large bowl. Add the gochujang sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ground ginger, and garlic. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined, creating a beautiful, rich marinade.
• Next, take your diced chicken and add it to the bowl. Make sure each piece is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate. Ideally, let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for a deeper flavor, you can leave it for up to 8 hours.
• Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, use a slotted spoon to transfer the marinated chicken into the skillet, discarding the leftover marinade.
• Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, flipping intermittently to ensure even cooking. You want it to be golden brown and cooked through. As it cooks, enjoy the enticing aromas that fill your kitchen!
• While the chicken is cooking, grab a small bowl. Add the cornstarch and cold water, stirring until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This will be your thickening agent for the sauce.
• After the chicken is fully cooked, add the cornstarch slurry to the side of the pan. Don’t dump it over the chicken—this ensures an even coating of sauce. Turn the heat to medium-low and gently stir the slurry into the sauce.
• Keep stirring for about 1 to 2 minutes, watching as the sauce thickens to your desired level. You’ll notice a nice glossy finish as it coats the chicken beautifully.
• Remove the pan from the heat and add in the diced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
• Serve the Spicy Korean Chicken immediately. It’s best enjoyed warm and fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover Spicy Korean Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s well-sealed, and it will last for about 3 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh salad to balance the heat.
• Spicing It Up: If you enjoy extra heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the marinade.
• Serving Style: For a fun presentation, serve Spicy Korean Chicken in lettuce cups with fresh herbs.

Keyword easy chicken dinner, Korean Chicken Recipe, Quick Korean Recipe, spicy chicken dish

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.