Go Back
Spicy Korean Chicken

Spicy Korean Chicken

Craving something bursting with flavor? This Spicy Korean Chicken is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy, marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, offering a spicy kick that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1.5 tablespoons Korean chili paste, gochujang
  • 1 teaspoon Korean red chili powder, gochugaru or regular chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1.5 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 piece ginger, peeled and minced (1 inch / 2 cm)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • to taste salt

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Peeler
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet
  • Frying Pan
  • Skillet
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Slice the chicken thighs horizontally to create thinner pieces of meat. Depending on their thickness, slice each chicken thigh into 2 or 3 horizontal pieces. Set aside.
  2. Combine all the ingredients for the marinade in a bowl and whisk until the Korean chili paste (gochujang) is completely dissolved. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, for two hours.
  3. Grill the chicken until slightly charred and fully cooked. Alternatively, pan-fry the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven at 400°F (207°C) for about 20 minutes. Serve immediately with steamed rice.

Notes

  • Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the better! Aim for at least thirty minutes, but two hours is ideal for maximum flavor.
  • Choosing Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness. They hold up better to cooking than chicken breasts, which can dry out.
  • Cooking Method: Grilling adds a smoky flavor, but you can also pan-fry or bake the chicken if you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked through.
  • Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
  • Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps maintain juiciness.
  • Adjusting Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less gochujang, and gradually increase to your taste.