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Flavorful Spicy Chicken Bulgogi

As seen in Quick and Satisfying Dinner Solutions for Busy Weeknights.

Flavorful Spicy Chicken Bulgogi is a tasty Korean BBQ option that makes chicken thighs shine with intense flavors. The meat absorbs a bold mix of Korean spices, including gochugaru and fermented gochujang, balanced by sweetness from sugar and fruit juice. Cooking the chicken caramelizes it nicely, and it's fantastic paired with rice or wrapped in lettuce. The best part? The marinade does most of the work while you relax.
Chef with a smile, ready to cook and serve.
Created by Sandra
Fresh as of Sun, 23 Feb 2025 00:23:05 GMT
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A colorful plate showcasing grilled chicken alongside vegetables and sauce. Save Recipe
A colorful plate showcasing grilled chicken alongside vegetables and sauce. | yummygusto.com

Spicy Korean Chicken Bulgogi transforms ordinary chicken thighs into an extraordinary dish bursting with bold Korean flavors. This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy elements, creating tender, caramelized chicken that's deeply infused with a marinade of gochujang, soy sauce, and aromatic ingredients.

I've made this recipe countless times for family gatherings, and the anticipation of watching the chicken caramelize on the grill while sweet and spicy aromas fill the air never gets old.

Essential Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken thighs: Their higher fat content ensures juicy, flavorful results
  • Gochujang paste: Provides the signature Korean sweet-spicy flavor base
  • Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru): Adds authentic heat and color
  • Rice wine (mirin): Tenderizes meat while adding subtle sweetness
  • Sesame oil: Contributes essential nutty undertones
  • Fresh ginger and garlic: Creates aromatic depth
  • Maesil chung or pineapple juice: Adds natural sweetness and helps tenderize

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinade Preparation
Combine gochujang, soy sauce, rice wine, and seasonings in a large bowl
Whisk thoroughly until mixture becomes smooth and uniform
Ensure all aromatics are finely minced for even distribution
Step 2: Chicken Preparation
Trim excess fat from thighs while keeping some for flavor
Cut pieces uniformly for even cooking
Massage marinade thoroughly into meat
Refrigerate 4-24 hours for optimal flavor penetration
Step 3: Grilling Method
Preheat grill to medium-high (375°F)
Oil grates to prevent sticking
Place chicken pieces without overcrowding
Grill 4-6 minutes per side until caramelized
Check internal temperature reaches 165°F

My family particularly loves the gochujang in this recipe. Its complex flavor has converted even the most spice-cautious relatives into Korean food enthusiasts.

The Art of Balance

The key to perfect bulgogi lies in balancing sweet and spicy elements. The marinade components work together harmoniously, with sugar taming the heat while gochugaru provides warmth without overwhelming the palate. This creates a perfectly balanced dish that appeals to varied taste preferences.

Storage Solutions

Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover chicken bulgogi maintains its delicious flavor for up to three days in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat gently in a covered pan with a splash of water to maintain moisture. The marinade can also be prepared ahead and frozen with raw chicken for future meals.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this versatile dish into multiple presentations - serve over steamed rice with kimchi, wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter option, or create a full Korean BBQ spread with various banchan sides. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a reliable go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Recipe Tips & Help

→ What if I use chicken breast for this recipe?
Sure! You can switch thighs for chicken breasts. Just watch your timing since breast meat cooks faster and can dry out if left too long.
→ How much heat is in this dish?
The spiciness is up to you! Cut back on the gochugaru for less heat or toss in extra if you're feeling bold.
→ What goes well with this chicken bulgogi?
Serve alongside white rice, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or enjoy it with classic Korean sides like kimchi. Roasted veggies are another great match!
→ No grill? What can I use instead?
Don't worry! A grill pan or skillet on a stovetop works beautifully too. Just heat it well to caramelize the chicken.
→ How long is the marinade safe to use?
You can marinate the chicken for up to a full day in the fridge. But remember—once it's been in contact with raw meat, toss out any leftover marinade.

Flavorful Spicy Chicken Bulgogi

Check out this zesty Spicy Chicken Bulgogi featuring chicken thighs marinated in a bold Korean blend, then grilled till caramelized and tender.

Preparation Time
20 Mins
Cooking Time
12 Mins
Total Time
32 Mins
Created by: Sandra

Dish Type: Weeknight Dinners

Skill Level: Medium

Style: Korean

Makes: 4 Serves

Dietary Notes: Low in Carbs, No Dairy

What You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into halves (can swap for chicken breast if preferred)

→ Marinade

02 2-3 tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
03 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
04 1 tablespoon of sugar (brown sugar works too)
05 3 tablespoons soy sauce
06 2 tablespoons mirin or rice wine
07 1 tablespoon sesame oil
08 2 tablespoons maesil chung or use pineapple juice
09 About 1/4 cup grated onion (1/4 of a medium onion)
10 2 tablespoons minced garlic
11 A couple of teaspoons of freshly grated ginger
12 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 A sprinkle of black pepper (adjust as you like)

→ Garnish

14 A couple of tablespoons chopped green onions
15 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Method

01

Wash and drain the chicken pieces. Take off any fatty parts, then slice each thigh across the middle. For thicker sections, slice them open for even cooking.

02

Mix up all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. You’ll need the gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, mirin, gochujang, sesame oil, maesil chung, grated onion, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s smooth.

03

Coat the chicken entirely with the marinade. The longer you let it soak in the fridge, the better—it’s best overnight but a few hours will do in a pinch.

04

Fire up your grill to a medium-high setting and oil the grates a bit to avoid sticking. Grill each side of your chicken for about 4-6 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Turn down the heat if it starts charring too much. If you don’t have a grill, you can cook it on a grill pan or skillet.

Cook's Tips

  1. Spicy chicken bulgogi goes great with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or onion. Toss the veggies in olive oil or sesame oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill them at the same time.

Kitchen Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Large bowl for mixing

Allergen Guide

Check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your doctor.
  • Soy
  • Sesame