Korean Spicy Chicken

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If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of fiery heat, sticky sweetness, and tender, juicy chicken, then Korean Spicy Chicken will be your new favorite dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors and simple ingredients, all cooked to perfection in one pan. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s made with ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it an accessible taste of Korea right at home.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Korean Spicy Chicken is a fantastic way to experience authentic Korean flavors without the complexity of restaurant cooking. The sauce is a magical blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes, made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. The chicken is crispy on the outside yet tender inside, coated in this luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility, ease of preparation, and the way it satisfies cravings for both comfort food and exciting spice.

This dish is perfect for those who want to explore Korean cuisine or anyone looking for a flavorful twist on classic chicken dishes. Pair it with steamed rice or fresh vegetables to make a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use a gluten-free variety if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance heat)
• 1/2 cup water
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

How To Make Korean Spicy Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Using thighs ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful after cooking. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help them brown nicely.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and water until well combined. This sauce is the heart of the dish, offering a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to release their fragrant aromas without burning.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the garlic and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until every piece is fully coated. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling and caramelize just a bit.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the spicy chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Expert Tips

• Use chicken thighs: They remain juicy and tender, perfect for this recipe’s bold sauce.
• Control the heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice tolerance, or add a dash of chili flakes for extra kick.
• Pat chicken dry: Ensuring the chicken is dry before cooking helps achieve a nice golden crust.
• Don’t skip the garlic and ginger: These aromatics build the deep, complex flavor base for the sauce.
• Simmer sauce gently: Avoid boiling the sauce too hard as it can burn the sugars and change the flavor.
• Serve immediately: The sauce thickens as it cools, so enjoy the chicken hot for the best texture and taste.

Variations and Customizations

• Make it crispy: Coat chicken pieces lightly with cornstarch before frying or baking to add a crispy texture.
• Add vegetables: Toss in sliced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious boost.
• Use chicken breast: If preferred, substitute chicken thighs with breast meat, but be careful not to overcook.
• Swap honey for maple syrup: For a different sweetness profile or if avoiding honey, maple syrup works well.
• Make it milder: Reduce gochujang and increase honey slightly for a sweeter, less spicy version.
• Serve as a wrap: Use the chicken as a filling for lettuce wraps or tortillas for a fun twist.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Korean Spicy Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. To maintain some crispness, avoid reheating in the microwave for too long. Leftover chicken can also be served cold in salads or wraps for a quick meal.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are ideal, you can use chicken breast, turkey, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.

Where can I find gochujang?

Gochujang is widely available in Asian grocery stores, many supermarkets, and online. It’s a fermented chili paste that is essential for authentic Korean flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with a mix of chili paste and a little miso paste, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of gochujang you use. This recipe has a moderate heat that can be adjusted up or down based on your preference. For a milder dish, reduce the gochujang and increase the sweeteners.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) and check that your gochujang brand is gluten-free, as some contain wheat. This makes the dish suitable for a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Korean Spicy Chicken is a deliciously addictive dish that brings vibrant flavors and a satisfying heat to your dinner table. Its combination of tender chicken and a sticky, spicy sauce is sure to please family and friends alike. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also highly adaptable, perfect for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine or simply enjoy a tasty, comforting meal. Whip it up tonight and enjoy a fiery, flavorful experience that’s anything but ordinary!

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