Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Korean Dish You Can Make at Home

Chicken bulgogi is a delicious and savory Korean dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special gatherings. Traditionally, bulgogi is made with beef, but this chicken version brings the same vibrant flavors to the table with a unique twist. Marinated in a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, chicken bulgogi is juicy, flavorful, and ready in less than 30 minutes! In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy chicken bulgogi recipe and answer common questions to make sure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Bulgogi

Chicken bulgogi is not only tasty but also versatile. You can serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even with noodles. Plus, it’s an ideal way to enjoy Korean flavors without the need for specialized ingredients. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and packed with delicious flavors that will leave you wanting more!

Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 1 tablespoon mirin (optional, for added depth)
• 1/2 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar or honey, mirin (if using), grated ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, making sure all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly caramelized.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or with your favorite vegetables on the side.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Bulgogi

1. Choose the Right Cut: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best as they remain tender and juicy during cooking. If using chicken breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: Red pepper flakes give the dish a mild kick, but you can add more or less depending on your preference. Korean red chili paste (gochujang) can also be added for a more authentic flavor.
3. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 30 minutes of marinating is sufficient, letting the chicken soak for a couple of hours deepens the flavors, especially if you want a stronger garlic and ginger taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make chicken bulgogi without sesame oil?
Yes, although sesame oil is traditional and adds a unique nutty flavor. You can substitute it with vegetable oil if necessary, but consider adding a few sesame seeds for a similar flavor.

2. Is chicken bulgogi spicy?
Chicken bulgogi has a mild spice level. You can adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes or gochujang for a spicier kick.

3. What’s the best way to serve chicken bulgogi?
Serve chicken bulgogi with steamed rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside a simple cucumber salad. It also pairs well with kimchi for a more authentic Korean experience.

4. Can I make this dish with other proteins?
Absolutely! While chicken is a great alternative to the classic beef bulgogi, you can also make it with pork or tofu.

5. How do I store and reheat chicken bulgogi?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warm.

Flavor Variations for Chicken Bulgogi

1. Sweet and Spicy: Add a bit of gochujang and increase the honey or sugar to create a sweet and spicy glaze on the chicken.
2. Garlic-Lovers’ Bulgogi: For a more intense garlic flavor, double the garlic and let it marinate for a longer period.
3. Vegetable-Boosted Bulgogi: Add thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the marinade to cook along with the chicken for a hearty, veggie-packed meal.

Conclusion

Chicken bulgogi is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings the best of Korean flavors to your kitchen. Its savory, slightly sweet, and spicy notes are perfectly balanced, making it a fantastic choice for dinner or meal prep. With a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Try this chicken bulgogi recipe today, and bring a touch of Korean cuisine into your home with ease.