If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try my spicy gochujang chicken! This delightful recipe hails from Korea and brings together that perfect balance of spicy heat and sweet undertones that’ll have your taste buds dancing. The star of the show, gochujang, is a fermented chili paste that adds depth and a unique kick to the chicken, making it utterly irresistible. Just imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy, spicy-sweet sauce that clings to every piece. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion you won’t forget! Once you try this dish, you’ll be hooked and want to make it again and again!
Ingredients for Spicy Gochujang Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish absolutely scrumptious! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken thighs: I love using thighs for their juiciness, but you can use breasts if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons gochujang: This spicy fermented chili paste is what gives the dish its signature heat and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon honey: For a touch of sweetness that balances the spice perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This nutty oil enhances the overall flavor and aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful punch.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Adds a zingy warmth that complements the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: This gives a slight tang that brightens up the dish.
- 2 green onions, chopped: For garnish and a fresh crunch—don’t skip these!
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also incredibly satisfying!
How to Prepare Spicy Gochujang Chicken
Preparing spicy gochujang chicken is a breeze, and trust me, the results are absolutely worth it! Start by mixing together a delicious marinade that’s going to infuse the chicken with flavor. You’ll want to let it marinate long enough for the magic to happen, so make sure to follow those timing cues! Once your chicken has soaked up all those tasty flavors, it’s time to cook it to perfection. You can grill or pan-fry, depending on your mood and kitchen setup. Just keep an eye on the clock, and you’ll have a sizzling meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and rice vinegar. Whisk until well blended.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, longer is even better!
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to get that lovely sear on your chicken!
- Once heated, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill or in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve. Wow, you did it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bold Flavor: The spicy gochujang sauce combines heat and sweetness, creating a memorable taste experience.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the chicken and minimal added sugars, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or in a wrap—there are endless ways to enjoy it!
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and glossy sauce make it a showstopper on any dinner table.
Tips for Success with Spicy Gochujang Chicken
Getting the most out of your spicy gochujang chicken is all about the little details! First, don’t rush the marinating process—aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can let it sit for a few hours, you’ll be amazed at the flavor penetration. Also, if you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to start with just 1 tablespoon of gochujang and adjust to your taste. When cooking, make sure your grill or pan is hot enough to get that perfect sear, which locks in the juices. And remember, letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial; it ensures every bite is juicy and tender. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of my spicy gochujang chicken. You’re looking at about 320 calories, with 15g of fat (3g saturated), 30g of protein, and 12g of carbohydrates (1g fiber). It also has 8g of sugar and 550mg of sodium. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they give you a great idea of what you’re indulging in!
FAQ about Spicy Gochujang Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! While I love the juiciness of thighs, chicken breasts work just as well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out!
How spicy is this dish? The spice level really depends on the amount of gochujang you use. If you’re not sure, start with less and taste the marinade before adding the chicken. You can always add more for extra heat!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to cook it fresh for the best flavor!
What can I serve with spicy gochujang chicken? This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even in a salad. Get creative! You can also add some pickled veggies for a refreshing crunch.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Just ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free. Other than that, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your spicy gochujang chicken is super simple! Just let any leftovers cool down, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for those quick lunches or dinners later in the week. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also pop it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, or it might dry out. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Gochujang Chicken
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious spicy gochujang chicken, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! I love pairing it with a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up that flavor-packed sauce beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try serving it with stir-fried noodles tossed in veggies for a colorful, crunchy contrast. You can also add a side of kimchi for a traditional touch—it brings that extra zing! Fresh cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing is another great option to cool down the heat. Enjoy experimenting!
For more delicious recipes, check out all our recipes or try making spicy honey garlic shrimp for another flavor-packed meal!
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Spicy Gochujang Chicken That Packs 7 Irresistible Flavors
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish with spicy gochujang sauce and tender chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or pan over medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and serve.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: spicy gochujang chicken, Korean chicken, gochujang recipe