Korean BBQ Chicken

Your grill just made a new best friend with this Korean BBQ Chicken! This dish features perfectly seasoned chicken, drenched in a finger-licking-good, homemade Korean BBQ sauce. It’s skewered and grilled to perfection, making it an ideal choice for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or any special occasion. The unique blend of flavors brings a taste of Korea right to your table, ensuring that everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The homemade Korean BBQ sauce is packed with sweet and savory flavors that elevate simple chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this dish with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal, or enjoy it as an appetizer at gatherings.
• Healthier Choice: With low sodium soy sauce and lean chicken breasts, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues, everyone will love the rich taste of Korean BBQ Chicken!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and equipment to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grilling skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grilling skewers: These help hold the chicken pieces together while ensuring even cooking on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the marinade ingredients effectively.
• Grill or grill pan: Using a grill allows for that classic smoky flavor that makes Korean BBQ Chicken so appealing.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1.5 inch pieces)
– salt and pepper
– 1 teaspoon Asian five spice (optional)
– 3 green onions (finely chopped)
– steamed rice or cooked noodles for serving (optional)
– ½ cup low sodium soy sauce (see note)
– ⅓ cup brown sugar
– 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes)
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 2 tablespoons cold water + 2 teaspoons corn starch

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Combine:
1. The low sodium soy sauce
2. Brown sugar
3. Rice vinegar
4. Toasted sesame oil
5. Sriracha sauce (or crushed red pepper flakes)
6. Minced garlic

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade in the mixing bowl. Stir well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

While the chicken marinates, soak your grilling skewers in water if they’re wooden. After marinating, thread the chicken onto the skewers.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while you prepare the skewers. This ensures a good sear on your Korean BBQ Chicken.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewered chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, remove from the grill and serve hot over steamed rice or cooked noodles. Garnish with finely chopped green onions!

Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Chicken!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Chicken

When it comes to serving Korean BBQ Chicken, the options are as diverse as the flavors in the dish itself. This delicious chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its taste and presentation.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that balances the savory flavors of the chicken. Its fluffy texture provides a great base for enjoying the sauce.

Over Cooked Noodles

• Serving this chicken over cooked noodles adds a delightful twist. The noodles soak up the BBQ sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Finely chopped green onions not only add color but also a fresh crunch. Sprinkle them generously on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

With Sesame Seeds

• Toasted sesame seeds are a simple yet effective garnish. They add a nutty taste and appealing texture, making your dish look even more appetizing.

Accompanied by Kimchi

• Kimchi brings a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the Korean BBQ sauce. It’s a traditional side that enhances any Korean meal.

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How to Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken

To achieve mouthwatering Korean BBQ Chicken, follow these essential tips that ensure perfect flavor and texture every time.

• Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible.
• Use skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Preheat your grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in moisture.
• Don’t overcrowd: Give each piece enough space on the grill for even cooking and proper charring.
• Brush with sauce: Baste the chicken with BBQ sauce during grilling to enhance flavor and create a sticky glaze.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Korean BBQ Chicken elevates your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Kimchi Fried Rice: This hearty dish blends leftover rice with kimchi and vegetables, creating a spicy yet comforting companion.
2. Spicy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes adds crunch and zing.
3. Korean Potato Salad: Creamy with a hint of sweetness, this unique salad often includes apples or carrots for added texture.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms grilled to perfection offer vibrant flavors alongside the chicken.
5. Seaweed Salad: Light and nutritious, seaweed salad provides umami flavors that beautifully complement grilled meats.
6. Pickled Radishes: These crunchy pickles contrast nicely with the rich flavors of the chicken, adding brightness to your plate.
7. Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables can be an exciting addition that enhances your meal experience.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and balances out the richness of the BBQ chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality soy sauce or vinegar can ruin your sauce. Always opt for high-quality ingredients, especially soy sauce.
• Neglecting skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a great alternative.
• Not balancing flavors: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish one-dimensional. Always taste your sauce and adjust as needed before cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean BBQ Chicken in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean BBQ Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean BBQ Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat chicken on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add chicken, cooking until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Korean BBQ Chicken.

How do I make Korean BBQ Chicken more spicy?

You can add extra sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for additional heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will provide more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

What should I serve with Korean BBQ Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, cooked noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with kimchi for an authentic touch.

How do I store leftover Korean BBQ Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them.

Final Thoughts

Korean BBQ Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. With its savory flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices!