Korean Spicy Chicken Recipe – Bold, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Are you craving a dish that’s bold, fiery, and irresistibly delicious? Korean Spicy Chicken, known for its mouthwatering combination of tender chicken and rich, gochujang-based sauce, offers just that. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a long-time fan, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing with excitement.

Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, marinated chicken infused with sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This recipe takes the best of Korean street food and brings it to your kitchen in just a few simple steps. You’ll love how easy it is to recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home, even on busy weeknights.

Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe for Korean Spicy Chicken, where each bite promises to deliver an explosion of taste. Grab your apron and get ready to impress yourself—and anyone you share this dish with!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates a spicy, umami-rich sauce that deeply penetrates the chicken.
• Easy to Make: With simple, clear instructions, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: You can grill, pan-fry, or bake the chicken, so it fits your kitchen setup and preferences.
• Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to Korean cooking, this recipe makes the process easy to follow, with accessible ingredients and foolproof steps.

What is Korean Spicy Chicken?

Korean Spicy Chicken, or Dakgalbi, is a popular Korean dish made with marinated chicken thighs in a spicy sauce. The heat comes from gochujang, a fermented chili paste that adds depth and character to the dish. Traditionally served with rice or lettuce wraps, it’s a meal that’s perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed all year round.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Cutting board: For slicing chicken and vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Essential for prepping chicken.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the marinade.
• Whisk: To combine marinade ingredients.
• Tongs: For handling the chicken during cooking.
• Grill pan or skillet: Depending on your cooking method.
• Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Key Ingredients

To make this flavorful Korean Spicy Chicken, you will need:

• Chicken Thighs (500g): Juicy and flavorful, chicken thighs work best for this recipe due to their tenderness and ability to absorb the marinade.
• Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste, 2 tbsp): This spicy, sweet, and savory paste is the star of the show, providing the dish’s characteristic flavor.
• Gochugaru (Korean Red Pepper Flakes, 1 tsp): Adds additional heat and a vibrant red color.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): For umami richness.
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): Adds a nutty depth to the marinade.
• Sugar (1 ½ tbsp): Balances the heat and intensifies the savory flavors.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must-have in Korean marinades, garlic adds pungency and depth.
• Ginger (1-inch piece, minced): Brightens the dish with a slight zing.
• Green Onions (2, chopped): Adds freshness to the final dish.

How to Make Korean Spicy Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tsp gochugaru
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 ½ tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 1-inch minced ginger

Whisk these ingredients together until the gochujang is fully dissolved, creating a smooth marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Take 500g of chicken thighs and slice them into thin strips for even cooking. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Pro Tip: Marinating the chicken longer allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Step 3: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can cook Korean Spicy Chicken in several ways. Choose the one that suits you best:

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until slightly charred and fully cooked.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked.
• Oven-Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestion: Korean Spicy Chicken is best enjoyed with steamed rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option.

Helpful Tips for Cooking Korean Spicy Chicken

1. Marinate Properly: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavors will be. If you’re short on time, try to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the gochujang and gochugaru, or increase it if you love extra heat.
3. Use Chicken Thighs: While you can substitute with chicken breasts, thighs remain juicier and more tender, making them perfect for this dish.
4. Preheat Your Grill/Pan: Ensure your cooking surface is hot before placing the chicken to achieve a nice char.

What to Serve with Korean Spicy Chicken

Korean meals are all about balance and variety. Here are some dishes that pair well with Spicy Korean Chicken:

• Steamed Rice: The neutral flavor of steamed rice balances the spiciness of the chicken.
• Kimchi: Fermented, spicy, and tangy, kimchi adds a burst of flavor and helps cut through the richness of the chicken.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with a touch of ssamjang (Korean dipping sauce).
• Japchae: A traditional Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato noodles, Japchae adds a chewy texture that complements the tender chicken.
• Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled radishes or cucumbers introduces acidity, which brightens the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to be less juicy than thighs. If you prefer chicken breasts, make sure not to overcook them to keep the meat tender.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for 2 hours. If you’re in a rush, marinating for at least 30 minutes will still give you good flavor.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and cook as directed when you’re ready to enjoy it.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check, or ensure the juices run clear when you cut into the chicken.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbohydrates	Fat
Per Serving	263 kcal	23g	8g	15g

This nutritional information is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Korean Spicy Chicken is a bold, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few key ingredients like gochujang and soy sauce, you can create a meal that’s bursting with authentic Korean flavors. Whether you grill, pan-fry, or bake, this versatile recipe is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll not only master the art of Korean Spicy Chicken but also gain confidence in Korean cooking overall. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Korea in your own kitchen!