Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe
Looking for something bold and spicy to excite your taste buds? This Spicy Korean Chicken recipe hits all the right notes - tangy, sweet, hot, and absolutely mouthwatering. I still remember the first time I made it.
Ingredients
- 1 lb of boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil or substitute with olive oil for a healthier option.
- 2 tbsp of Korean chili paste Gochujang
- 1 tbsp of soy sauce low sodium if preferred
- 1 tbsp of honey or brown sugar for sweetness
- 2 tsp of rice vinegar for that tangy bite
- 4 cloves of garlic finely minced
- 2 tsp of grated ginger fresh works best!
- 1 tbsp of sesame oil for that nutty flavor
- 1 tsp of Korean chili flakes Gochugaru (optional for extra spice)
- 1/4 cup water to adjust the sauce consistency.
Instructions
- Start by patting your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This helps them cook evenly and get that beautiful golden sear. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the meat. Easy, right?
- Time to mix up the magic! Combine gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water in a bowl. Whisk until you get a smooth sauce. It should be thick but still pourable. If it’s too thick, just add a splash of water!
- If you have some extra time, this step can really elevate the flavors. Toss your chicken pieces in the sauce, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the bold, spicy flavors to soak into the meat. Don’t worry, you can skip this step if you’re short on time!
- Heat some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces, but don’t overcrowd the pan. This lets them cook evenly and get crispy. Sear each side for about 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through.
- Next, lower the heat, pour in the remaining sauce, and stir for 2–3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken beautifully. Get ready, it smells amazing!
Notes
- Double the Sauce
Love a saucy dish? Make extra sauce to drizzle over rice for maximum flavor. - Customize Spice Levels
Dial back the gochujang or chili flakes if you prefer mild heat. Add more if you’re a spice lover! - Add Veggies for More Nutrition
Stir in diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms while cooking the chicken for added texture and nutrients. - Use Fresh Ingredients
Always use fresh garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to bring out the best flavors.