Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

Crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy Korean gochujang sauce make for an irresistible dish! This Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it ready in just 25 minutes, but its bold flavors and easy preparation also make it a fantastic option for casual dinners or special gatherings. Your family and friends will love this dish, and you’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang, garlic, and sesame oil delivers a unique flavor that’s both sweet and spicy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, noodles, or as a filling for lettuce wraps—this recipe adapts to your dining preferences.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving hits.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious taste and vibrant colors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Large pan or skillet
• Cooking spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining chicken with cornstarch, ensuring an even coating.
• Large pan or skillet: Allows for frying multiple pieces of chicken at once, achieving that crispy texture quickly.

Ingredients

Crispy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy Korean gochujang sauce, ready in just 25 minutes for an easy weeknight dinner.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound skinless boneless chicken thighs or breast
• 1/2 onion, diced

For the Coating

• 1/3 cup cornstarch or potato starch
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or neutral oil

For the Sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons Gochujang
• 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 cup water

For Garnish

• 1 green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

How to Make Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken into 1.5-inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Combine all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add cornstarch to the chicken pieces. Toss until they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per side.

Step 5: Cook the Onions and Combine

Fry diced onions until translucent. Add the prepared sauce to the pan and simmer until thickened. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until well-coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken!

How to Serve Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot alongside steamed rice for a classic pairing that balances the spicy flavors.
• Pair with lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on meal where you can enjoy the chicken wrapped in fresh greens.

In Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to create delicious Korean-style tacos filled with gochujang chicken, topped with fresh veggies and extra sauce.

With Noodles

• Toss the chicken with cooked noodles for a quick stir-fry style dish. Add some vegetables for added color and nutrition.

On a Salad

• Create a vibrant salad by adding the crispy chicken on top of greens, drizzled with sesame dressing for an Asian twist.

As Part of a Buffet

• Offer Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken as part of a buffet spread. It pairs well with other Asian-inspired dishes and adds variety to your meal.

How to Perfect Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

To achieve the best results with your Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the flavor profile significantly. Always opt for fresh over pre-packaged when possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of gochujang. You can add more later if needed.
• Preheat Your Pan: Ensure that your oil is hot before adding chicken pieces. This helps achieve that desirable crispy texture.
• Let It Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before tossing it in the sauce. This keeps it crispy.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on garnishing! Green onions and sesame seeds not only look great but add extra flavor too.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

Complement your Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken with these delightful side dishes. They bring balance and variety to your meal.

1. Steamed Rice: Fluffy jasmine or sticky rice absorbs the spicy sauce perfectly.
2. Kimchi: This fermented side adds tanginess and crunch, making it a classic choice alongside any Korean dish.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of gochujang chicken.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and broccoli sautéed in sesame oil are healthy and delicious.
5. Korean Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, it complements spicy dishes beautifully.
6. Pickled Radishes: These crunchy pickles add brightness and help cleanse the palate between bites of spicy chicken.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal nicely, providing warmth and depth.
8. Egg Fried Rice: A hearty option that incorporates eggs and vegetables into rice, making it filling and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the chicken in cornstarch can lead to less crispy pieces. Make sure you toss the chicken well to ensure an even coat.

• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the pan at once can lead to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect golden brown color.

• Not adjusting spice levels: If you find gochujang too spicy, be careful with how much you add. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go.

• Ignoring simmer time: Failing to simmer the sauce long enough may result in a runny texture. Allow it to thicken properly before tossing in the chicken.

• Using low-quality oil: Choosing an oil with a low smoke point can affect frying results. Stick with vegetable or neutral oils for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Check for even heating and stir if necessary.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cover until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gochujang?

Gochujang is a traditional Korean fermented chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. It adds depth and spice to many dishes, including this Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use skinless boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just note that thighs often stay juicier during cooking.

How spicy is Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken?

The spice level of this dish depends on the amount of gochujang used. For milder flavors, start with less gochujang and gradually add more until it meets your preference.

Can I customize the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or modify spiciness by using less gochujang or adding honey for balance.

Final Thoughts

Quick Korean Gochujang Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. This recipe offers versatility; you can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preferences. Give it a try for your next weeknight dinner!