Spicy Korean Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spicy Korean Chicken brings a flavorful punch to your dinner table with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. The combination of tender chicken coated in a spicy-sweet glaze will make this dish an instant favorite. Ideal for weeknight meals, this dish packs a lot of flavors with simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking to spice up your routine or satisfy a craving for Korean cuisine, this recipe delivers!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet with the cooked chicken.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level. Add more for extra heat or less if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can follow the same steps to cook the tofu in place of chicken.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Spicy Korean Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much while reheating.

FAQs

1. What is gochujang, and where can I find it?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, rice, and chili peppers. It has a rich, savory, and spicy flavor. You can find it in Asian supermarkets or online.

2. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well for this recipe. However, thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and then add the sauce.

4. Is this recipe very spicy?

It depends on how much gochujang you use. The recipe as written has a moderate spice level, but you can adjust it by adding more or less gochujang to suit your taste.

5. Can I use honey substitutes?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar for a different twist.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

7. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Absolutely! You can bake the chicken pieces at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked and golden, then toss them in the sauce.

8. What should I serve with Spicy Korean Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple salad. You could also serve it with kimchi for an authentic Korean meal.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

10. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp for a variation on this dish.

Conclusion

Spicy Korean Chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that brings the heat and delicious umami flavors of Korean cuisine into your home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will leave everyone coming back for more. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for those who enjoy a little spice with their meals!

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