Name: Korean BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5 inch pieces; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Asian five spice (optional); 3 green onions, finely chopped; Steamed rice or cooked noodles for serving (optional); 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 4 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons cold water; 2 teaspoons corn starch

Korean BBQ Chicken

Korean BBQ Chicken is a delicious dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe highlights the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking indoors, this dish offers a fantastic experience for both you and your guests.

Why Make This Recipe

This Korean BBQ Chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for plenty of customization. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of culinary excitement. Plus, this dish embodies the essence of Korean BBQ, making it an excellent way to celebrate cultural cuisine without stepping out of your home. The addition of fresh green onions and sesame oil adds layers of flavor that elevate the chicken from simple to spectacular.

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Asian five spice (optional)
3 green onions, finely chopped
Steamed rice or cooked noodles for serving (optional)
1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons cold water
2 teaspoons corn starch

Directions:

Prepare the BBQ sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil. In a small bowl, mix the cold water and corn starch until dissolved, then stir it into the boiling sauce. Once thickened, remove from heat and divide the sauce between two bowls—reserving one for later use.
Prepare the chicken: Skewer the chicken pieces onto metal or soaked wooden skewers. Season each piece with salt, pepper, and Asian five spice if desired. Brush the chicken liberally with the prepared BBQ sauce from one of the bowls, ensuring it’s well-coated.
Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, turning periodically. Be sure to brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce after each turn for a flavorful glaze. For those opting to bake, set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and place the skewers on a rimmed sheet pan. Bake for 12-16 minutes, brushing with extra BBQ sauce 2-3 times throughout the cooking process.
Serve the chicken: Once done, serve the chicken over a bed of steaming rice or alongside cooked noodles. Drizzle with the reserved BBQ sauce and garnish generously with chopped green onions. Enjoy the burst of flavors that make this dish special!

Pro Tips for Success with Korean BBQ Chicken

Even Cooking: For evenly cooked chicken, make sure that all the pieces are cut to a uniform size, around 1.5 inches.
Marinate for Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours, or overnight, to deepen the flavor.
Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables on the skewers, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.

Flavor Variations for Korean BBQ Chicken

Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or a pinch of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the sauce for an extra spicy kick.
Sweeten the Deal: For a sweeter sauce, consider adding some pineapple juice to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro or Thai basil as a garnish for an aromatic twist.
Citrus Zing: Add some lime or lemon juice into the marinade for a refreshing citrus note.

Serving Suggestions for Korean BBQ Chicken

Wrap It Up: Serve the grilled chicken in lettuce wraps for a fun and crunchy bite.
Side Dishes: Pair with traditional Korean sides like kimchi, pickled radishes, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Rice Bowls: Create a rice bowl by adding steamed vegetables and a fried egg on top for a hearty meal.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Korean BBQ Chicken

Refrigeration: Store any leftover Korean BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, the grilled chicken can be frozen in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Brush with extra BBQ sauce to revive the flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQ About Korean BBQ Chicken

What type of chicken is best for Korean BBQ Chicken?

Using boneless skinless chicken breasts is ideal for this recipe as they cook evenly and stay juicy. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I make Korean BBQ Chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day before. Just store it in the fridge and grill it the next day for an instant meal.

Is Korean BBQ Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari. Be sure to check other packaged ingredients for gluten content.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary; shrimp, for example, will cook much faster than chicken.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes from the recipe. The sweetness from the brown sugar and the rich umami from the soy sauce will still provide a tasty dish.

What else can I serve with Korean BBQ Chicken?

To enhance your meal, consider offering a side of kimchi, a simple salad, or even pickle vegetables, allowing guests to customize their plate.

Final Thoughts

Korean BBQ Chicken is an excellent way to explore Korean cuisine in a simple yet delicious format. With its versatile flavor profile and ease of preparation, you’re bound to impress family and friends anytime you make this dish. The combination of the tangy-sweet BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and fresh garnishes makes every meal feel special. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every bite of this delightful dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!