Use What You Have
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Recipe
This test kitchen-approved gochujang chicken recipe is fast, flavorful, and fun. Heres how to prepare this sweet and spicy dish.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)
- 4 tablespoons sodium-reduced soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet rice wine (mirin)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
- 3 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
- 6 cups cooked rice
Directions
Step 1: Gather all your ingredients and get ready to start the cooking process.
Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together the gochujang, soy sauce, mirin, honey, grated garlic, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix until the sauce is well combined.
Step 3: Heat the canola oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken to the wok and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
Step 4: Repeat the same process with the remaining chicken. Once all the chicken has been cooked, return all of it to the wok.
Step 5: Stir the sauce well and pour it into the wok over the chicken. Continue cooking and stirring for about 3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and become bubbly.
Step 6: Top the chicken with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and color.
Step 7: Serve the gochujang chicken immediately over a bed of warm rice.
Test Kitchen Tips
- Be sure to use gochujang paste rather than gochujang sauce. The paste is thicker and perfect for making this sauce.
- For easier storage and usage, buy gochujang in a tube. It stays fresh longer and is more manageable.
- If you want a more traditional touch, you can coat the chicken in cornstarch and fry it, but for a quicker weeknight meal, skip this step.
What to Serve With Gochujang Chicken
Serve the gochujang chicken with white rice and steamed vegetables for a balanced, healthy meal. If you have leftovers, try folding them into wonton wrappers with optional cream cheese and deep frying for a crispy appetizer!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 574 |
| Total Fat | 16g (20%) |
| Saturated Fat | 4g (20%) |
| Cholesterol | 183mg (61%) |
| Sodium | 1640mg (71%) |
| Total Carbohydrates | 66g (24%) |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g (4%) |
| Total Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 42g (85%) |
| Vitamin C | 4mg (4%) |
| Calcium | 50mg (4%) |
| Iron | 4mg (21%) |
| Potassium | 541mg (12%) |
Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Origin and History: Gochujang, the star ingredient of this dish, is a staple in Korean cuisine. It is a fermented hot pepper paste made from gochu (Korean chili pepper), glutinous rice, and fermented soybeans. The origins of gochujang date back over 1,000 years to the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Its use spread widely as Korea's food culture evolved, particularly in the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), where it became essential in traditional Korean cooking. Gochujang is still a fundamental element in Korean kitchens today, symbolizing both the bold and balanced nature of the cuisine. Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken is a modern take on Korean flavor profiles, blending sweetness from honey and umami from soy sauce with the heat of gochujang.
Regional Variations
Korean cuisine is known for its regional specialties, and Gochujang Chicken is no exception. In different regions of Korea, the sauce can be adjusted for varying levels of heat and sweetness. For example, in the southern regions of Korea, dishes tend to be spicier, and the use of gochujang is more prominent. In contrast, northern areas might favor a more balanced flavor, adding extra sweetness to the sauce with ingredients like sugar or fruit pastes. Though the recipe for Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken is fairly uniform across Korea, regional variations can be found when it comes to accompaniments and the exact balance of heat and sweet in the sauce.
How It Differs from Similar Dishes
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken stands apart from other popular Korean chicken dishes like Dakgangjeong (crispy fried chicken in a sticky sweet sauce) and Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) by its sauce. While Dakgangjeong is known for its crispy texture and sweet, soy-based glaze, Gochujang Chickens flavor is more complex, with a distinctive spicy depth from the gochujang paste. Unlike Samgyeopsal, which is more about grilling and serving with dipping sauces, this dish is prepared with the sauce cooked directly into the chicken, resulting in a rich, flavorful glaze that coats every bite.
Where Is It Typically Served?
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken is a versatile dish commonly served in Korean households, often as part of a family meal or in casual dining establishments. It is typically paired with steamed white rice and a variety of banchan (small side dishes). This dish is also a favorite at Korean BBQ restaurants, where it may be offered alongside other grilled meats. In more modern settings, its frequently seen as a weeknight dinner option due to its quick and easy preparation. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for gatherings or family meals.
Interesting Facts
- Gochujang is not only a flavor base but also a health food. It contains capsaicin, the compound responsible for the spice, which has been shown to boost metabolism and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
- The dish's popularity has spread beyond Korea, with variations appearing in fusion cuisine, particularly in countries like the United States, where Korean fried chicken joints often serve it with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi.
- While the sauce in Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken is made with gochujang paste, variations of the dish can be made using gochujang sauce (a thinner, less concentrated form), though it will alter the depth of flavor.
- In addition to chicken, this sauce can be used with other proteins, such as pork, beef, or even tofu, for a vegetarian version of the dish.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken is an excellent introduction to Korean flavors, with its harmonious combination of spicy, sweet, and savory elements. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant or prepared at home, it offers a taste of Korea's culinary ingenuity. The simplicity of the dish, combined with the richness of gochujang, makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking an easy yet flavorful meal.
FAQ about Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Recipe
Comments
Mary Carter
11/23/2022 10:15:44 PM
I absolutely loved this recipe! The sauce itself is incredibly versatile and can be used on just about anything. I stuck to the recipe for the most part, but I couldn't resist adding a generous 1/3 cup of gochujang for that extra Korean spice kick that I adore. I noticed another reviewer mentioned adding sugar, so I followed suit and added just a teaspoon. In hindsight, I think the sauce already had enough sweetness from the honey and mirin, so I probably could have skipped the sugar. I was really happy with the flavor of the sauce, and a bit of cornstarch helped to thicken it up nicely. The chicken thighs turned out perfectly cooked as per the recipe instructions. I enjoyed them with some Kimchi and radish, and they paired beautifully with the Kimchi. The sauce itself would also be fantastic as a dipping sauce for Korean pancakes or for coating wings - the options are endless! I'm so pleased I came across this recipe. Thank you!
William Baker
05/26/2023 10:03:32 AM
This recipe is a rare gem that I followed to a T without any deviations. It turned out absolutely perfect. The sauce is incredibly delicious - I ended up doubling it. However, caution is advised when adding the sauce on the go. It's always better to taste it first and adjust accordingly. I personally simmered mine in the microwave for a bit to enhance the flavors. I don't believe it's essential to fry the chicken; using baked and shredded pieces could be a healthier alternative. I experimented with cornstarch, but found it unappealing due to the excessive oil content.
Emily Perez
10/01/2024 09:49:07 PM
Updated review: I made only one change, reducing the amount of Gochujang to two heaping tablespoons, and I'm so glad I did! Any more would have been too spicy for our liking. Other than that, this dish is truly fantastic!! Forget about takeout and give this recipe a try instead! It's delicious, simple, and fast to make! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! Thank you, Sarah B!
Raymond Gonzalez
08/09/2023 10:22:32 AM
Excellent recipe that is simple to make, with just the right amount of sauce and spicy kick from the Gochujang. I added a charred red pepper to the wok after cooking the chicken, then mixed it with the sauce. I will definitely be making this again.
Kathleen Phillips
02/01/2024 08:42:59 AM
I adjusted the amount of gochujang in this recipe to suit my preference for milder spice levels (I used about 2.5 heaping tablespoons). Despite using chicken breast, the dish turned out delicious. It was simple and fast to prepare! I will definitely be making it again!
Gary Lopez
01/26/2024 04:29:29 AM
The only modification I made was adding some frozen peas during the final minute of cooking the chicken, heating them through as the sauce thickened. I skipped adding any salt this time but might consider a pinch in the next batch.
Richard Hernandez
08/11/2024 09:12:18 PM
This recipe requires far too much of the gochujang paste. Half the amount would have been sufficient. The sauce was overwhelmingly strong and overshadowed all other flavors. I had to improvise by adding chicken broth to thin it out and lessen the intensity of the taste. I also included extra honey and a splash of rice vinegar. I should have read the reviews before attempting this dish. Oh well, you live and learn!
James Brown
08/15/2024 04:08:58 AM
This dish was absolutely amazing! My wife prepared it for me tonight and it was exceptional. Being a spicy food enthusiast, I was delighted by the perfect balance of heat and flavor. This recipe has definitely earned a top spot on my list of favorites. If you enjoy a combination of spice, sweetness, and savory elements in your meals, this one is a must-try. A+!
Cynthia Clark
04/11/2024 09:42:03 AM
I absolutely adored it!
Carolyn Lee
05/08/2025 09:53:44 PM
Amazing recipe! I've been looking for a tasty Korean dish with gochujang and this is the one! I made it with chicken this time, but I'm excited to try it with tofu for a delicious plant-based meal.
Ashley Lewis
11/20/2022 06:45:52 PM
Review: Wow! This was absolutely incredible. I followed the recipe step by step and it turned out perfectly. I will definitely be making this dish again, as my family couldn't get enough of it!
Kelly Cruz
05/23/2023 09:46:56 PM
Oh my goodness! Many recipes discovered online are just 'okay' and we might make adjustments if we decide to try them again. But this one, wow! It requires no adjustments - it's absolutely fantastic! With simple ingredients and vibrant, delicious flavors, it's a winner. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just beginning, ANYONE can whip this up without needing exotic ingredients or fancy tools!
Benjamin Hall
03/16/2024 04:28:57 AM
I followed the recipe exactly, except for the addition of 1 teaspoon of baking soda per pound of chicken to tenderize it. The dish turned out perfectly, and if you reduce the amount of hot sauce, you're missing out on the flavor kick!
Dennis Adams
02/17/2023 01:03:29 PM
Absolutely amazing! This dish surpassed anything I've ever tasted in Korean restaurants.
Timothy Lee
12/29/2023 06:04:05 AM
Fast and simple, with a delightful combination of sweetness and spiciness, this chicken dish is perfect for a quick weekday meal. I paired it with a generous serving of fragrant jasmine rice and some garlic butter broccoli on the side. It's a great one-pot dish that can also be prepared in a crockpot. Feel free to experiment with different meat cuts – I used skin-on boneless chicken thighs and small drumsticks that I had available. I'm even planning to try this sauce with some pork cuts from my freezer. This recipe is a definite winner and one that I'll be keeping!
Steven Moore
05/28/2023 06:14:44 AM
The meal was both quick and tasty. I'm new to spicy foods, so I only had a small portion, but it was surprisingly delicious.
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