Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine, look no further than this Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken. This dish brings the bold flavors of Korea right to your kitchen, combining tender chicken with the rich and fiery taste of gochujang. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, this recipe is an excellent choice that is both simple and delicious. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking methods, you can have this flavorful dish on your table in no time. Plus, the versatility of the ingredients makes it easy to customize according to your taste preferences. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal that will surely impress family and friends alike.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• Ingredients for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• How to Make Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• Use Fresh Ingredients
• Balance the Heat
• Marinate Properly
• Cook at the Right Temperature
• FAQs
• What is Gochujang?
• Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?
• How can I adjust the spice level?
• What sides pair well with Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken?
• Conclusion for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier than breasts; opt for about 1 pound for optimal flavor
• Gochujang Paste: This fermented chili paste will provide the signature spice and umami flavor characteristic of this dish
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to balance the flavors without overwhelming saltiness
• Honey: Adds sweetness that complements the heat from the gochujang; feel free to adjust based on preference
• Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor; choose firm cloves for the best taste

For the Sauce:

• Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in adding nutty depth; use toasted sesame oil if available
• Rice Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity that balances out the sweetness and heat

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Click here!

Korean Style Spicy Garlic Noodles

How to Make Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine gochujang paste, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Whisk until fully blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add boneless skinless chicken thighs into the marinade. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for better flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once hot, add marinated chicken pieces onto the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/75°C).

Step 5: Let It Rest

Remove chicken from heat and let it rest on a cutting board for about five minutes before slicing into strips.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer sliced chicken to plates or bowls. Drizzle any remaining marinade over top as a finishing touch.

For more tasty options, look no further!

Sweet and Spicy Baked Chicken Recipe

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all pieces of chicken are approximately equal in size for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let your marinated chicken come to room temperature before cooking; this helps achieve even cooking
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor development, consider marinating the chicken overnight instead of just thirty minutes

How to Serve Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

This Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Check out our other top-rated recipes!

Unstuffed Spicy Tomato Basil Shells with Whipped Ricotta

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in Gochujang sauce up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Prepare the marinade by mixing Gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
• Storing: Leftover Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Ensure all excess air is removed from the bags before sealing.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator. Heat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it at medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Turn your meal into a feast with this recipe!

Quick Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

Suggestions for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients

When preparing Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken, using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Fresh chicken, vibrant vegetables, and high-quality gochujang paste will elevate your dish. Avoid frozen or pre-packaged ingredients, as they often lack the same taste and texture. Fresh produce retains more nutrients and flavor, enhancing the final dish. If you’re unsure about ingredient quality, take time to source them from local markets or trusted suppliers. This simple step can make a significant difference in your cooking experience and the overall enjoyment of your meal.

Balance the Heat

Gochujang is known for its spiciness, but balancing that heat with other flavors is essential to creating a delicious dish. When making Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken, consider adding sweetness through honey or sugar, and acidity with rice vinegar or lime juice. These elements counterbalance the spicy notes and create a more rounded flavor profile. If you’re unsure about the level of heat, start with a smaller amount of gochujang and gradually increase it to suit your taste preferences. Remember that everyone has different spice tolerances, so adjust accordingly.

Marinate Properly

Marinating your chicken is one of the most critical steps in making Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken. A good marinade infuses flavor into the meat, resulting in a tastier dish. Allow at least 30 minutes for marination; however, longer times—up to overnight—will provide even better results. Ensure you cover the chicken fully with the marinade to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. Additionally, remember to store it in the refrigerator during this time to keep it safe to eat. Proper marination takes your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Cook at the Right Temperature

Cooking your Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken at the right temperature is vital for achieving that perfect balance between tenderness and crispiness. Preheat your oven or skillet before adding the chicken; this helps lock in juices while creating a nice crust on the outside. For stovetop cooking, medium-high heat works best to ensure even cooking without burning the exterior. If baking in an oven, aim for around 425°F (220°C) for optimal results. Pay attention to cooking times; undercooked chicken poses health risks while overcooking can lead to dry meat.

FAQs

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a traditional Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, powdered red chili pepper, and salt. This unique combination creates a rich flavor profile that includes sweet, spicy, and umami notes all in one ingredient. It serves as a versatile base for many Korean dishes such as bibimbap and tteokbokki but shines particularly well in recipes like Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken. If you’re new to this ingredient, start with small amounts and adjust based on your spice tolerance.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes! While Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken traditionally uses chicken due to its quick cooking time and ability to absorb flavors well, you can experiment with other meats such as pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. Each type of protein will bring its unique texture and flavor to the dish. However, be mindful of cooking times since different meats may require varying lengths of cooking for safety and optimal taste.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Adjusting the spice level in Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken can be done easily by modifying how much gochujang you use or incorporating additional ingredients that temper heat. For less heat, reduce gochujang by half or replace it partly with ketchup or a milder chili sauce that still provides some flavor without overwhelming spice levels. Alternatively, adding coconut milk or yogurt can help balance out heat while keeping your dish creamy.

What sides pair well with Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken?

Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken pairs wonderfully with several sides that complement its bold flavors. Classic accompaniments include steamed rice or fried rice that absorbs excess sauce beautifully. You might also try serving it alongside pickled vegetables for added crunch and acidity—a staple in Korean cuisine! Other options include roasted veggies or stir-fried greens like bok choy or spinach seasoned lightly with sesame oil.

Craving something different? Try this next!

Delicious Crispy Beef Rice Bowl Recipe

Conclusion for Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken

In conclusion, mastering Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken involves careful attention to detail throughout preparation and cooking processes. Start by selecting fresh ingredients that enhance flavor profiles while balancing heat levels effectively using sweeteners and acidic components like vinegar or lime juice. Don’t forget about proper marination techniques; allowing adequate time ensures maximum infusion of taste into every bite! Finally, pay close attention to cooking temperatures; this will help achieve both tenderness inside and crispiness outside.