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Korean-Style Spicy Marinated Chicken

Korean-Style Spicy Marinated Chicken
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Korean-Style Spicy Marinated Chicken features juicy chicken thighs soaked in a vibrant blend of spicy gochujang, sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger. This approachable and flavorful recipe balances heat and sweetness perfectly, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers. With a quick 30-minute marinade and easy skillet or grill cooking, this classic Korean dish brings bold flavors and satisfying depth to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skin-on recommended
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Garnishes & Optional

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional: ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until smooth and sticky, ensuring all flavors are well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating each piece evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your grill. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Cook chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is nicely charred and caramelized.
  4. Rest and Garnish: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving for an authentic Korean touch and extra texture.

Notes

  • Use dark meat such as chicken thighs for juicier results that soak up the marinade better than breasts.
  • Do not skip the resting step after cooking to maintain moisture and tenderness.
  • Marinate a minimum of 30 minutes for quick flavor or overnight for intensified taste.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to develop caramelization without burning the marinade.
  • Avoid overcrowding your pan or grill to ensure even cooking and proper searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Korean chicken, spicy chicken, gochujang chicken, marinated chicken, quick dinner, Korean appetizer, gluten free, easy recipe

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/korean-style-spicy-marinated-chicken/