Korean Chicken

Korean Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the bold and savory flavors of Korean cuisine right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also captures the essence of Korean cooking with its sweet and savory marinade. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of making Korean Chicken that is juicy, flavorful, and completely satisfying.

Top Reasons to Make Korean Chicken

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, apple sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich flavor profile that is both sweet and savory.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Healthy Option: Using chicken breasts keeps the dish lean without sacrificing taste.

What to Buy

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise, from 2 breasts
• 1/4 cup low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, plus more for topping
• 2 thinly sliced scallions, white and green parts

Prep & Cook Tools

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
• Knife and Cutting Board: To prepare the chicken and vegetables.
• Skillet or Pan: To cook the chicken over medium heat.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

From Start to Finish: Korean Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce, unsweetened apple sauce, finely chopped yellow onion, sesame oil, grated ginger, light brown sugar, crushed garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and sesame seeds. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are nicely blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cut chicken breasts into the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour for more flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add a splash of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade (saving the marinade for later) and place it in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Add the Marinade

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken in the skillet. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and coat the chicken.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Slice it if desired, then serve it topped with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• For a gluten-free version, use tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Replace apple sauce with pear sauce for a different sweetness.
• Use honey instead of light brown sugar for added depth.
• If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This Korean Chicken recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet for a one-pan meal. Additionally, if you have leftovers, they can be shredded and used in tacos or salads the next day.

• For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
• Pair this dish with Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe for a complete feast!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it until heated through. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.

Handy Q&A

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of red pepper flakes. Omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and cook it when you’re ready to eat. This can save precious time during busy weeknights.

What can I serve with Korean Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or a refreshing cucumber salad. For a twist, try serving it with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for a fun meal!

Keep Cooking

• Garlic Butter Chicken Wings for a finger-licking appetizer.
• Explore other chicken dishes to expand your culinary skills.
• Try out new marinades and spices to create your unique flavor combinations.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Korean Chicken recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Sharing delicious food is one of the best ways to connect. Snap a pic of your creation and tag your favorite food bloggers or social media channels to spread the love for Korean cuisine.

Korean Chicken is a delightful way to experience the vibrant flavors of Korea in your own home. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure!