Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe
Makes Spicy Korean Chicken So Special
Table of Contents
If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, this Spicy Korean Chicken recipe is a must-try. Combining the rich, savory flavors of Korean cuisine with a spicy kick, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a fan of Korean food or just looking to experiment with new flavors, this recipe delivers on taste and ease of preparation.
What Makes Spicy Korean Chicken So Special?
Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold and vibrant flavors, and Spicy Korean Chicken exemplifies this perfectly. The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a sweet and spicy sauce that clings to tender pieces of chicken. This recipe captures the essence of Korean flavors with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it an exciting dish for anyone who enjoys a bit of spice.
How to Make Spicy Korean Chicken
The process of making Spicy Korean Chicken is straightforward and perfect for weeknight dinners. Begin by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This marinade infuses the chicken with a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce.
Next, prepare the sauce by simmering gochujang with soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and water. This sauce not only adds heat but also a glossy finish that makes the chicken look as good as it tastes.
Once your chicken is marinated and your sauce is ready, the cooking part is a breeze. Sauté the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, then stir-fry a colorful mix of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and broccoli. Combining these ingredients with the spicy sauce creates a dish that’s both hearty and healthy.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy Korean Chicken is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables to enhance the Korean dining experience.
Tips for Success
- Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to deepen the flavors. For an even richer taste, marinate it for up to 2 hours.
- Adjust the Heat: The amount of gochujang can be adjusted based on your preference for spice. Feel free to experiment to find your ideal level of heat.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms can also be great additions.
Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe
Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb 450 g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice wine or dry white wine
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup gochujang Korean red chili paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, rice wine, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the chicken pieces, tossing well to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and water.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Add sliced onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add broccoli florets and continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Gochujang is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing that authentic Korean spicy flavor. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of gochujang or use a mild chili paste instead.
- For added crunch, you can also toss in some toasted peanuts or cashews before serving.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
This Spicy Korean Chicken recipe is a delicious way to bring the flavors of Korean cuisine into your kitchen. With its balance of spicy, sweet, and savory elements, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results. Enjoy your cooking adventure and the incredible flavors of Spicy Korean Chicken!
Crowd-pleaser for sure!
Flavor explosion in every bite!