Chicken Bulgogi, or Dak Bulgogi, is a beloved Korean dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of savory, sweet, and spicy ingredients. This easy-to-make recipe brings the vibrant tastes of Korean BBQ to your kitchen, offering a delightful meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Why I Love This Recipe
I appreciate how this Chicken Bulgogi recipe transforms simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a rich marinade that infuses the chicken with depth and tenderness. It's a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it a staple in my meal rotation.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chopped onion, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, sesame seeds, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well integrated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the Chicken Bulgogi to a serving dish and garnish with additional sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice and your choice of vegetables.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Spicy Kick: For added heat, incorporate 1-2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste) into the marinade.
- Vegetable Addition: Enhance the dish by adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms during the cooking process.
- Grilling Option: Instead of pan-frying, grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may be less juicy than thighs. Ensure not to overcook to maintain tenderness.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes?
While 30 minutes is recommended for optimal flavor, if you're short on time, even a brief 15-minute marination can impart good taste.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! The marinade can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just add the chicken when ready to marinate.
What sides pair well with Chicken Bulgogi?
Steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple green salad complement the flavors of Chicken Bulgogi beautifully.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative in place of regular soy sauce.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Bulgogi recipe offers a straightforward way to enjoy the rich and savory flavors of Korean BBQ at home. Its simple preparation and versatile nature make it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Enjoy the delightful taste of Korea with this delicious dish!
Easy Chicken Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Chicken)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minute
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet or Grilled
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
This Easy Chicken Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Chicken) is a flavorful, quick-cooking dish made with tender, marinated chicken in a savory-sweet Korean-style BBQ sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend grilling, it's a delicious way to bring authentic Korean flavor to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 5 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix chopped onion, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, sesame seeds, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add sliced chicken to the bowl and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken with its sauce and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring often, until fully cooked and sauce thickens.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with sesame seeds or green onions, and enjoy hot with steamed rice and veggies.
Notes
- For extra heat, add 1–2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade.
- Add veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms while cooking for more texture and flavor.
- For a smoky twist, grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-cooking.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet for best results.
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