Chicken Bulgogi Recipe: Warm, Sticky Korean BBQ Chicken

Introduction

This Chicken Bulgogi recipe turns everyday chicken into a glossy, savory dinner that feels special with very little fuss. The marinade is a simple harmony of soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in a hot skillet. It is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal when you want big flavor fast. If you love quick chicken dinners, try other recipes like easy Chinese orange chicken for more inspiration.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This version of bulgogi uses boneless chicken for a speedy cook time and everyday accessibility. The ingredients list reads like a pantry friendly roll call that still produces restaurant quality results. Because the chicken is sliced thinly, the marinade soaks in quickly and the meat caramelizes in minutes on a hot pan. It is an ideal recipe when you want something impressive without complicated steps or long prep. The balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic notes makes it a family friendly favorite that also scales well for guests. Serve it over rice, pile it into lettuce wraps, or add it to a noodle bowl for a colorful, satisfying plate.

Flavor and Texture

A quick soak in the soy and brown sugar base gives the chicken a glossy sheen and a deep savory backbone. Garlic and fresh ginger add bright, warming aromatics that cut through the sweetness. Sesame oil brings a toasted, nutty finish while chopped green onions add pops of freshness. When cooked on medium high, the thin strips develop slightly charred edges that add texture and contrast to the juicy interior. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a final nutty crunch and visual polish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Extra chopped green onions

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, chopped green onions, black pepper, and optional chili flakes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
2. Slice the chicken into thin, even strips.
3. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade until all pieces are well coated.
4. Marinate the chicken at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
5. Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium high heat.
6. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and caramelized around the edges.
7. Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate.
8. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions and serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Tips for Best Results

Use thighs for a more forgiving, juicier outcome or breasts if you prefer leaner meat; both work beautifully when sliced thin. Pat the chicken dry before slicing to make neat, even strips that sear evenly. Do not overcrowd the skillet so each piece can caramelize; cook in batches if needed. Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the sweetness or salt to your preference. For a touch of heat, leave in the chili flakes or add a drizzle of your favorite chili oil after cooking.

Storage and Make Ahead

Marinated chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before cooking, which makes this a convenient make ahead for evening meals. Cooked bulgogi stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for one to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to refresh the glaze and avoid drying the meat. You can also freeze cooked portions for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thought

This Chicken Bulgogi is a quick way to bring bold Korean inspired flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s versatile, family friendly, and scales up easily for entertaining. Keep the ingredients simple and let the quick sear do the work for a juicy, caramelized finish.

Conclusion

For a slightly different take and more tips on Korean style BBQ, see Beyond Kimchee’s Chicken Bulgogi (Korean BBQ Chicken) recipe for inspiration and serving ideas.

FAQ

Print