Name: Spicy Korean Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing); 1.5 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang); 1 teaspoon Korean red chili powder (gochugaru) or regular chili powder; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1.5 tablespoons sugar; 1 piece ginger (peeled and minced, 1 inch / 2 cm); 3 cloves garlic (minced); Salt (to taste)

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch with flavor and a delightful kick of heat, look no further than this Spicy Korean Chicken. With tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of Korea. The combination of gochujang and garlic creates a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why I Love This Recipe

One of the things I adore about this Spicy Korean Chicken recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients yet yields maximum flavor. The boneless, skinless chicken thighs are incredibly forgiving, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, the fusion of spicy, sweet, and savory notes creates a harmonious balance that is hard to resist. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed vegetables, this dish is versatile and satisfying.

Ingredient Rundown

To make this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb (500g) boneless and skinless chicken thighs: The star of the dish, offering tenderness and flavor.
2 tablespoons oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
1 1/2 tablespoons Korean chili paste (gochujang): This fermented paste brings umami and heat.
1 teaspoon Korean red chili powder (gochugaru) or regular chili powder: Adds smoky notes and additional heat.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the dish with a nutty aroma.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides saltiness and depth of flavor.
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the heat and salt with sweetness.
1 piece ginger (peeled and minced, 1 inch / 2 cm): Adds warmth and complexity.
3 cloves garlic (minced): A foundational flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential tools:

Large skillet or wok: Perfect for stir-frying the chicken and sauce.
Sharp knife: For chopping the chicken and mincing garlic and ginger.
Cutting board: To prep your ingredients safely.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and combining the ingredients.

Make Spicy Korean Chicken: A Simple Method

Cooking this Spicy Korean Chicken is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the gochujang, gochugaru, sesame oil, soy sauce, sugar, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended. This marinade will not only flavor the chicken but also create a delicious sauce as it cooks.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until every piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, making sure to scrape in all the marinade. Spread the chicken out in an even layer and let it sear without stirring for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Stir and Simmer

After the chicken has browned, stir it occasionally, cooking until it is cooked through and the sauce thickens, about 6-8 minutes. Taste and add salt as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce is glossy, remove it from heat. Serve your Spicy Korean Chicken over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the explosion of flavors with every bite!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing some ingredients or prefer alternatives, consider these swaps:

Chicken thighs: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Gochujang: If you can’t find it, try Sriracha or another chili paste, but adjust the amount to taste.
Gochugaru: Regular chili powder can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Sugar: Brown sugar or honey can be used for a different sweetness profile.

Cook’s Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced green onions or sesame seeds as a garnish.
Adjust the heat level by adding more or less gochujang and gochugaru according to your taste preferences.
This dish is great for meal prep! The flavors deepen when reheated, making it even more delicious the next day.
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spiciness.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you want to freeze this Spicy Korean Chicken, place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but they may require less cooking time, so watch them closely to avoid drying out.

What can I serve with Spicy Korean Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even Saucy Peanut Noodles With Chicken. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Is gochujang spicy?

Gochujang has a unique flavor profile that includes sweetness along with heat. If you are sensitive to spice, you may want to start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or seitan and follow the same marinade and cooking method for a delicious vegetarian version.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Honey Garlic Chicken – A sweet and savory dish that’s easy to make.
Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry – A protein-packed and flavorful vegetarian option.
Garlic Shrimp with Zoodles – A light and fresh take on a classic dish.

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