Korean BBQ Chicken

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The bold flavors of soy, sesame, and gochujang come together in this Korean BBQ Chicken to create a dish that is rich in umami and slightly spicy with a touch of sweetness. The caramelization from the grill enhances the smoky depth, making every bite irresistible.

Whether you serve it with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or alongside kimchi, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Perfect for meal prep or a weekend barbecue, this Korean BBQ Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make recipe that brings the taste of Korean cuisine right to your home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated

2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)

Directions:

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, gochujang, black pepper, and honey.

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly brush with vegetable oil.
Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Transfer to a plate and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinate Time: 1 hour | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes

Korean BBQ Chicken: A Flavorful and Juicy Dish

Korean BBQ Chicken is a delicious and savory dish that brings the bold and balanced flavors of Korean cuisine to your table. This dish features juicy, grilled chicken marinated in a rich, umami-packed sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang (Korean chili paste). The marinade creates a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that caramelize beautifully on the grill.

The Origins of Korean BBQ Chicken

Korean BBQ (known as “Gogi-gui” in Korea) is a popular cooking method in Korean cuisine where meat is grilled at the table, often accompanied by side dishes called “banchan” (such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and steamed rice). While beef dishes like Bulgogi and Galbi are traditional Korean BBQ favorites, Dak Gogi (Korean grilled chicken) has gained popularity for its tender texture and bold flavors. The use of gochujang (a fermented chili paste) gives this dish its signature heat and deep umami flavor, while honey or brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs stay moist and tender even after grilling. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.
Grill vs. Pan-Fry: Grilling the chicken over an open flame gives it a smoky depth, but if you don’t have a grill, you can pan-fry it in a cast-iron skillet for a similar charred effect.
Baste While Cooking: Brushing the chicken with leftover marinade while grilling helps to build layers of flavor and keeps it moist.

Serve with Traditional Korean Sides: Enjoy this dish with a bowl of steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, or Korean-style lettuce wraps (Ssam) for an authentic experience.

Variations & Serving Suggestions

Spicy Lovers: Increase the amount of gochujang or add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Sticky Glaze: Brush the grilled chicken with extra honey or a glaze made from the marinade for a caramelized coating.

Oven-Baked Option: If you don’t have a grill, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Chicken

✅ Easy to Make: Simple ingredients with a quick marinade.
✅ Bold and Balanced Flavors: A delicious mix of savory, sweet, and spicy.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
✅ Versatile: Can be grilled, pan-fried, baked, or air-fried.
✅ Authentic Korean Flavors: Brings the taste of Korean BBQ to your home.

This Korean BBQ Chicken recipe is a must-try if you love flavorful, easy-to-make dishes. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress!

History & Cultural Significance of Korean BBQ Chicken

Korean BBQ, or “Gogi-gui” (고기구이), is an essential part of Korean cuisine and culture. Typically, this style of cooking involves grilling marinated meat over an open flame, either on a tabletop grill at restaurants or at home with a portable gas or charcoal grill. While beef-based dishes like bulgogi (marinated beef slices) and galbi (Korean short ribs) are among the most famous Korean BBQ staples, dak-galbi (spicy grilled chicken) has gained immense popularity for its bold flavors and tender texture.

Unlike Western BBQ sauces that rely on tomato and vinegar bases, Korean BBQ marinades use ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang to create a depth of flavor that is unique and complex. The result is a sticky, slightly charred, and incredibly flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of Korean side dishes (banchan), such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and seasoned spinach.

Pro Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Chicken

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. Ideally, marinate it overnight for the best taste.
Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs remain tender and juicy even after grilling. If using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook them.
Baste While Cooking: While grilling or pan-frying, brush the chicken with leftover marinade to build extra layers of flavor.

Grill for Authentic Smoky Flavor: While pan-frying and baking are great options, grilling over charcoal or an open flame adds a delicious smokiness to the chicken.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing: This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken moist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

🌿 Classic Korean Side Dishes (Banchan)

Kimchi: Fermented spicy cabbage for a tangy contrast.
Pickled Radishes: A refreshing, slightly sweet accompaniment.
Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim): A crisp and slightly spicy salad.

Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles): A popular Korean noodle dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken.

🍚 Serving Ideas

Steamed Rice: The perfect base for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Korean Lettuce Wraps (Ssam): Wrap the grilled chicken in lettuce with a spoonful of rice and a drizzle of sesame sauce.
Bibimbap Bowl: Chop the grilled chicken and add it to a bowl of rice with mixed vegetables, kimchi, and a fried egg.

🍹 Drink Pairings

Korean Soju: A mild, slightly sweet alcoholic beverage that complements grilled meats.
Makgeolli (Korean Rice Wine): A lightly fizzy, sweet rice wine that pairs well with spicy foods.
Iced Barley Tea (Boricha): A non-alcoholic, refreshing tea that helps balance the richness of the dish.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or in the microwave at 50% power to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish without gochujang?
Yes! While gochujang adds a signature spice and umami flavor, you can substitute it with mild miso paste or a combination of sriracha and honey for a similar taste.

What’s the best way to cook this indoors if I don’t have a grill?
A cast-iron grill pan or a regular non-stick pan works well. Just make sure to cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the chicken.

Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
Absolutely! This marinade works great with beef, pork, tofu, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you use.

Conclusion

Korean BBQ Chicken is a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your home. Whether you’re grilling it up for a summer BBQ, cooking it for a weeknight dinner, or preparing it for a meal prep session, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!