Spicy Korean Chicken
Introduction
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with the fiery flavors of spicy Korean chicken? Packed with a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory ingredients, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Korean cuisine is celebrated for its dynamic and bold flavors, and this dish is no exception. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve friends and family during gatherings. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this incredible dish at home.
Recipe and more
This spicy Korean chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs coated in a deliciously spicy sauce made entirely from scratch. With easily available ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless – 6 pieces
Soy sauce – 4 tablespoons
Honey – 2 tablespoons
Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – 3 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Ginger, grated – 1 tablespoon
Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon
Spring onions, chopped – For garnish
Sesame seeds – For garnish
Prep Time
Taking around 10 minutes to prep, this dish is incredibly quick to start with. Simply gather your ingredients, prepare the spicy marinade, and cut the chicken. The quick preparation ensures you’ll get to enjoy this savory dish in no time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: This recipe will have you cooking for approximately 20 minutes, giving you enough time to let the flavors develop perfectly.
Total Time: With both preparation and cooking, you’re looking at just 30 minutes to create this delightful meal.
Yield: This recipe is perfect for serving 4 people, but feel free to double the quantities if hosting a larger group.
Experiment with this spicy Korean chicken recipe and bring the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine into your kitchen. With its simplicity and mouthwatering taste, this one is sure to become a repeat favorite on your menu! Enjoy this flavorful dish with steamed rice or a side of fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
– Start by cutting the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Use chicken thighs for the juiciest results, but chicken breasts can also work.
– Add the chicken pieces to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Create the marinade
– In a separate small bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic granules (or minced garlic), and honey to create the marinade.
– Once mixed, pour this marinade over the chicken in the bowl.
– Stir to ensure all pieces are evenly coated in the marinade.
– Leave the chicken to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes. For best results, let it marinate overnight in the fridge.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
– Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
– Once the pan is hot, add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking.
– Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, spreading them out evenly.
– Cook for approximately 7-10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure they cook through and caramelize slightly.
Step 4: Prepare your sauce
– While the chicken is cooking, mix together a few more tablespoons of gochujang and soy sauce in a small bowl to create a sauce.
– Keep the sauce aside until the chicken is ready.
Step 5: Coat the chicken
– Once the chicken has cooked through, reduce the heat and add the sauce mixture to the pan.
– Stir thoroughly to coat all the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce.
– Allow the chicken to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
– Remove the pan from the heat.
– Transfer the spicy Korean chicken to a serving plate.
– Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for extra flavor and visual appeal.
– Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or your preferred side dishes.
Notes
Choosing the chicken
– For the juiciest results, chicken thighs are recommended. However, chicken breasts can be used if preferred.
Spice level adjustments
– Gochujang is spicy; adjust the quantity to your spice preference. Add more or less to increase or reduce the heat.
Marination time
– While 20-30 minutes is sufficient to flavor the chicken, marinating overnight will produce a deeper, richer taste.
Cooking tips
– Use medium-high heat to caramelize the chicken but avoid burning it.
– Stir the chicken frequently for even cooking.
Serving suggestions
– This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, but it also works well with noodles or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Storage and leftovers
– Store any leftover spicy Korean chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent it from drying out.
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Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Marinate the chicken with a mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and gochujang. Allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Crisping the Chicken
Use a large skillet or frying pan to fry the chicken. Cook until it turns golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Making the Sauce
Prepare a rich and spicy Korean sauce using gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil. Let it simmer slightly to thicken before adding to the chicken.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken to the frying pan with the sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
Finishing with Garnishes
Top the finished dish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and a burst of freshness.
FAQ
How spicy is this Korean chicken?
The spiciness depends on the amount of gochujang used. Adjust the level of gochujang to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I use a different meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, spicy Korean chicken can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with spicy Korean chicken?
Serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or a simple salad to complete the meal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce and ensure any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What is gochujang, and can I replace it?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste. If unavailable, you can substitute it with a mix of hot sauce and a touch of miso paste.
Conclusion
This Spicy Korean Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone craving a comforting meal with bold and vibrant flavors. It’s easy to prepare, and its combination of sweetness, spice, and umami creates a truly irresistible dish. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe ensures a delightful experience that’s bound to satisfy and impress.
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