Korean chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine to your table. With its tender meat and sweet-spicy sauce, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this dish both accessible and rewarding. Perfect for any occasion, Korean chicken is a wonderful introduction to the bold tastes of Korea. Get ready to savor every bite!
Ingredients
– 1 kg whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for better flavor.
5. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the marinated chicken pieces skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
8. Flip the chicken and pour any remaining marinade over the top.
9. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute gochujang with sriracha for a milder heat, or use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version. Additionally, chicken thighs can be used instead of a whole chicken for a juicier result.
Serving and Pairings
Korean chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. You can also serve it alongside kimchi for a traditional touch or enjoy it in a wrap with fresh greens.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip marinating; it enhances flavor.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing.
– Ensure chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 75°C/165°F).
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t forget to baste the chicken while baking for added moisture.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
– For extra crunch, broil for a few minutes after baking.
– Pair with a light salad to balance the richness.
– Experiment with different vegetables in your side dishes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.
Is Korean chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of gochujang used in the marinade. Use less for a milder flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken the night before and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve for a quick meal.
What can I serve with Korean chicken?
Korean chicken is delicious with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also goes well in a wrap.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or they can be frozen for up to a month.
Conclusion
Korean chicken is a flavorful dish that brings the essence of Korean cuisine to your home. With its sweet and spicy notes, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavors!
Korean Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 kg whole chicken cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons gochujang Korean chili paste
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for better flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Heat vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces skin-side down and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and pour any remaining marinade over the top.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Nutrition
