There’s something about the sizzle and aroma of Korean BBQ chicken that makes a weeknight feel a little less ordinary. This recipe brings together bold flavors in a marinade that’s both savory and slightly sweet, coating tender chicken pieces that cook up in just about half an hour. It’s one of those dishes that fills the kitchen with a tempting smell and makes you want to gather everyone around the table without delay.
One evening, I tried this recipe after a long day—half distracted by emails and half wondering if dinner would be worth the effort. The marinade’s mix of gochujang and honey hit that perfect balance: a little kick, a little sweetness, and a depth that made the chicken irresistible. I wasn’t sure if a simple skillet would do it justice, but those charred edges? Exactly what I was hoping for. I even caught myself sneaking bites while plating, a sign that this isn’t just dinner, it’s a moment worth savoring. Plus, the sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and green onions adds a fresh crunch that’s surprisingly addictive.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick marinade and cooking time make this ideal for busy evenings.
- The balance of spicy and sweet is never overwhelming—it’s just right.
- Protein-packed chicken keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated prep, just bold flavor.
- Perfectly pairs with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal.
If you’re worried about spice levels, you can always tweak the gochujang amount to suit your taste. I usually keep it moderate because I like a little heat without it taking over. Also, if you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute marinade does wonders, though letting it sit a bit longer amps up the flavor.
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High Protein Korean BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A flavorful and high-protein Korean BBQ chicken recipe marinated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce, perfect for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Whisk until well mixed to create the marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place the pieces on the hot grill pan.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Serve immediately with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Kitchen Notes: No fancy equipment is needed—just a skillet or grill pan works great. I like serving this with a simple side of steamed broccoli or a crunchy slaw to balance the richness. Sometimes, I swap honey for maple syrup when that’s what I have on hand, and it still turns out nicely. If you want to try a milder version, reducing the gochujang or adding a splash of extra vinegar can brighten the dish without losing its character. For a bit of crunch, tossing in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas at the end gives a nice contrast. Honestly, this recipe is forgiving and flexible, so feel free to experiment a little.
FAQ:
Can I use thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, thighs work well and stay juicy, though cooking times may vary slightly.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a gentle heat from the gochujang, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely, and it often tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.
Ready to bring a little Korean BBQ magic to your next meal? Save this recipe, get your skillet ready, and enjoy every bite.