When it comes to an easy chicken dinner that’s bursting with flavor, Spicy Sticky Korean Chicken is a must-try! This dish combines crispy chicken smothered in a rich gochujang sauce, balanced with honey and sesame, and best served over rice. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Chicken Recipe
- Bold Korean Flavors – The gochujang sauce brings a deep, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor that is uniquely Korean.
- Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Crispy Yet Juicy – The chicken is pan-fried to perfection and then smothered in the sticky sauce.
- Pairs Perfectly with Rice – Gochujang rice or plain steamed rice absorbs all the delicious sauce.
- Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less gochujang.
The Magic of Gochujang Sauce
Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste that brings depth to dishes with its unique combination of spiciness, umami, and subtle sweetness. It is a staple in Korean cuisine and works wonders in marinades, stir-fries, and dipping sauces. In this recipe, it forms the backbone of the sauce, giving the chicken its signature kick and bold color.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Gochujang Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening, if needed)
- 2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency, if needed)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or gochujang rice
- Sliced green onions
- Extra sesame seeds
- Sautéed vegetables (optional)
How to Make Spicy Sticky Korean Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. This helps create a crispy texture when frying.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Gochujang Sauce
In the same pan, lower the heat and add the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If needed, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce to create a thicker consistency.
4. Smother the Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the spicy sticky sauce until well-coated. Let it cook for another minute so the sauce fully adheres to the chicken.
5. Serve Over Rice
Spoon the Spicy Korean Chicken over a bed of warm rice. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and an extra drizzle of honey or sesame oil for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Korean Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch – It helps create a crispy coating that holds onto the sauce better.
- Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer milder heat, reduce the gochujang and red pepper flakes.
- Serve with Gochujang Rice – Mix a bit of gochujang into your rice for extra spice and color.
- Pair with Vegetables – Sautéed bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas add a nice contrast to the dish.
What to Serve with Spicy Korean Chicken
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Gochujang Rice – A neutral base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Korean Pickled Vegetables (Kimchi) – A tangy and spicy side to balance the rich flavors.
- Crispy Korean Pancakes (Pajeon) – Adds a crunchy texture to your meal.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side to cool down the spice.
- Miso Soup – Complements the flavors with its savory umami broth.
Variations to Try
Baked Spicy Korean Chicken
If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Grilled Korean Chicken
Marinate the chicken in the gochujang sauce for at least 2 hours, then grill over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side. Brush with extra sauce while grilling for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Option
Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or tempeh and follow the same method for coating and cooking. The sauce works just as well with plant-based protein sources.
FAQs
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook it, as chicken breast tends to dry out faster than thighs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Is This Dish Spicy?
The level of spice depends on how much gochujang and red pepper flakes you use. You can adjust the spice to your preference.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Cook the chicken fresh for the best texture.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan before serving.
Final Thoughts
Almond Flour Pancakes in Summer This Spicy Sticky Korean Chicken is an irresistible dish that’s easy to make yet packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or an impressive dinner, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. Serve it over rice, sprinkle on some sesame seeds, and enjoy an authentic Korean-inspired meal right at home!
Try this recipe today, and let us know how you liked it! If you enjoy spicy Korean chicken, you might also love trying dishes like Korean BBQ chicken, bulgogi, or spicy tofu stir-fry. Happy cooking!
