Sweet spicy Korean gochujang has completely transformed my weeknight dinners! I still remember the first time I tried it, the incredible balance of heat and sweetness just blew me away. It’s that magical Korean red pepper paste that makes everything taste so much better. If you’ve ever wondered, “what is sweet spicy Korean gochujang?”, it’s essentially a fermented chili paste that brings a complex, savory, and slightly sweet kick to any dish. My kitchen fills with the most amazing aroma when I whip this up, and the sticky glaze on the chicken is just irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons:
- The amazing gochujang sweet and spicy flavor is perfectly balanced, making every bite exciting.
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare, with most of the magic happening in under 30 minutes.
- Chicken thighs are a budget-friendly protein choice that stay wonderfully moist.
- It’s a healthier option than many fried chicken dishes, packed with flavor from fermented chili paste.
- Kids and adults alike adore the irresistible sticky glaze and the delightful gochujang sweet and spicy flavor.
- It’s versatile enough for a weeknight family meal or a casual get-together with friends.
- The vibrant color and mouthwatering aroma are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients for Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish. The star is definitely the gochujang, a fermented Korean red pepper paste sweet and spicy that gives this chicken its signature kick. You’ll also need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) – this is where the magic happens!
- 2 tablespoons honey – for that essential sweetness to balance the heat.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – adds umami and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic makes a huge difference!
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – adds a warm, zesty note.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – for that authentic nutty aroma.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – brightens up the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – for sautéing the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt – to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a little extra spice.
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions – for garnish.
- Toasted sesame seeds – for a final touch of texture and flavor.
How to Make Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your chicken.
- Step 2: Cut the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Step 3: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ingredients for your sauce. This includes 3 tablespoons gochujang, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon ginger, minced, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, vibrant paste. This is the heart of your spicy sweet Korean sauce gochujang.
- Step 4: Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl with the sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to toss them gently, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated in the flavorful mixture. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or for an even deeper flavor, cover it and refrigerate for up to an hour.
- Step 5: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil is shimmering and hot.
- Step 6: Carefully add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned on all sides. You’ll start to smell that amazing sweet and spicy aroma.
- Step 7: Once the chicken is browned, pour any remaining marinade from the bowl directly into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer and bubble around the chicken for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the spicy sweet Korean sauce gochujang to thicken into a beautiful, sticky glaze that clings to the chicken.
- Step 8: Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the chicken to a serving dish. Garnish generously with 1 tablespoon chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch. Serve your delicious sweet spicy Korean gochujang chicken immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
Want to elevate your gochujang chicken game? These simple tricks will ensure your dish is absolutely delicious every time.
- For the most tender chicken, use thighs rather than breasts. They hold up better to the cooking process and the flavorful marinade.
- Don’t skip the marinating step! Even 15 minutes makes a big difference, but an hour or even overnight will give you the deepest flavor.
- When browning the chicken, ensure your pan is hot enough. This creates a nice sear and caramelization, adding another layer of flavor.
- Taste and adjust the sauce before adding the chicken. You might want a little more honey for sweetness or a splash more vinegar for tang.
What’s the secret to perfect sweet spicy Korean gochujang chicken?
The real secret is using a high-quality gochujang and letting the chicken marinate properly. The combination of fermented chili paste with honey and soy sauce creates that irresistible sweet and spicy flavor. Using the best sweet spicy gochujang makes all the difference!
Can I make sweet spicy Korean gochujang chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more. Just cook it as directed when you’re ready to eat.
How do I avoid common mistakes with sweet spicy Korean gochujang chicken?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Also, make sure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to get a good sear, and don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the sauce. Using fresh ginger and garlic is key!
Best Ways to Serve Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
This versatile chicken dish is fantastic served in so many ways! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a larger Korean feast. For a classic experience, serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice, which is wonderful for soaking up any extra sauce. You can also pair it with simple steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich chicken. If you’re looking for ideas on how to use this sweet spicy Korean paste for cooking in other ways, think of it as a fantastic glaze for pork or even as a flavor booster for stir-fries. It’s truly a chameleon in the kitchen! For more delicious recipes, check out our Recipes section.
Nutrition Facts for Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious chicken dish:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more healthy options, explore our Zepbound Weight Loss Recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
Leftovers of this amazing chicken are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, let the chicken cool completely at room temperature for about an hour before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. Store the cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Transfer the cooled chicken to freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months. These storage tips make it super easy to enjoy this flavorful dish later, perhaps as part of other easy sweet spicy Korean gochujang dishes. You might also enjoy our Korean BBQ Meatballs.
When you’re ready to reheat, you have a few options. For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently warm them in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to stir halfway through for even heating. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first. Then, reheat using the skillet method for the best texture, as it helps to crisp up the glaze slightly again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken
Can I substitute the chicken thighs?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but they cook faster and can dry out more easily, so keep a close eye on them. For a vegetarian or vegan option, firm tofu or tempeh cubes are excellent choices. Just make sure to press the tofu well before marinating to remove excess water.
What if I can’t find gochujang?
Gochujang is key to the authentic flavor, but if you absolutely can’t find it, you can try a mix of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), a little soy sauce, honey, and a pinch of miso paste for depth. However, it won’t be quite the same as using authentic sweet spicy Korean gochujang. It’s worth looking for it at Asian markets or well-stocked grocery stores! You can learn more about fermented foods and their benefits from resources like this study on fermented foods.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The heat level depends on the gochujang you use and the amount. Most gochujang offers a medium heat. If you prefer it milder, start with less gochujang and add more to taste. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of gochugaru or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. This recipe aims for a pleasant, balanced heat.
Can I make this in an air fryer or slow cooker?
Absolutely! For an air fryer, toss the marinated chicken with a little oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. For a slow cooker, place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours, then thicken the sauce on the stovetop if desired. These methods are great for busy days! For more slow cooker inspiration, check out our Turkey Meatloaf Recipe.
Variations of Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken You Can Try
This versatile chicken dish is a fantastic base for creativity! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes, here are a few ideas:
- Dietary Swap: For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute the chicken thighs with firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before marinating, and you’ll get a wonderfully chewy texture.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t want to use a skillet, try baking or air frying! For baking, spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. An air fryer is also perfect; cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Flavor Profile Adjustment: For those who prefer a milder heat, use a mild sweet spicy Korean gochujang or reduce the amount of regular gochujang in the sauce. You can also add a touch more honey or a splash of maple syrup to further balance the spice.
- Add-Ins: Boost the flavor and texture by adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or snap peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. This makes it a complete one-pan meal! For another great side, try our Crispy Roasted Cauliflower.
Amazing Sweet Spicy Korean Gochujang, 30 Min
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make Sweet and Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken. This recipe features tender chicken coated in a flavorful gochujang-based sauce, offering a perfect balance of sweet and spicy notes. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for best flavor.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- If desired, add any remaining marinade to the skillet once the chicken is cooked. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken.
- Remove from heat and transfer the chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish.
- Serve hot and fresh.
Notes
- For maximum flavor, use fresh garlic and ginger.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level.
- Can be marinated a day in advance for deeper flavors.
- Pairs well with steamed broccoli or snap peas.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can substitute rice vinegar.
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
