Spicy Korean Chicken is the perfect weeknight dish, offering a balance of bold heat, tangy sweetness, and umami rich flavors. The tender chicken is coated in a sticky, spicy glaze made with Sriracha, soy sauce, and honey, creating an irresistible bite every time. Paired with steamed rice and crunchy tenderstem broccoli, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious.
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and highly customizable. Adjust the spice level to your preference, swap in your favorite vegetables, or even substitute the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving a quick family dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast fillets, cut into strips
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 2 tbsp Sriracha
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2.5 cm piece ginger, peeled and minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Steamed rice, for serving
- Steamed tenderstem broccoli, for serving
- Dry roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken – In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp vegetable oil, Sriracha, cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and chili powder. Add chicken strips, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
- Prepare the Sides – While marinating, cook rice as per package instructions. Steam the tenderstem broccoli and keep warm.
- Cook the Chicken – Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and sauté for 5-10 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Reserve the marinade.
- Simmer the Sauce – Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer for 2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
- Serve – Plate the chicken over steamed rice, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with peanuts, lime wedges, and green onions. Serve with steamed broccoli on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 236 kcal | Servings: 2
Spicy Korean Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Dish for Every Occasion
Korean cuisine is known for its bold, complex flavors, and Spicy Korean Chicken is no exception. This dish masterfully balances heat, sweetness, and umami, creating an irresistible meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a spice lover or simply looking to explore Korean inspired cooking, this dish is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection.
The Unique Flavors of Spicy Korean Chicken
At the heart of this dish is the marinade a powerful combination of Sriracha, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the signature flavor profile:
- Sriracha provides the heat, adding a smoky, garlicky spice that gives the chicken its signature kick.
- Soy sauce contributes umami depth and saltiness, enhancing the overall savoriness of the dish.
- Honey balances out the heat with a touch of natural sweetness, helping to create a sticky, caramelized glaze when cooked.
- Garlic and ginger add warmth and aroma, bringing a traditional Korean essence to the dish.
The chicken is marinated in this flavorful mixture, allowing the ingredients to penetrate deeply for a tender, juicy result. Once cooked, the reserved marinade is reduced into a thick, glossy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully, making each bite packed with rich, spicy sweet goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spicy Korean Chicken is a go-to dish for many reasons:
- Quick and Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Customizable Heat Levels – Whether you love spice or prefer a milder kick, you can easily adjust the amount of Sriracha and chili powder to suit your taste.
- Versatile Pairing Options – While the dish is traditionally served with steamed rice and vegetables, it also pairs wonderfully with noodles, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a low carb alternative.
- Great for Meal Prep – The marinated chicken can be prepared in advance, allowing you to cook it fresh when needed. Leftovers also store well, making this a convenient meal for the next day.
A Dish Rooted in Korean Culinary Traditions
Although this recipe is a simplified version of traditional Korean spicy chicken dishes, it is heavily inspired by Korean flavors and cooking techniques. In Korean cuisine, dishes like Dak Galbi (spicy stir fried chicken) and Yangnyeom Chicken (sweet and spicy Korean fried chicken) share similar flavor profiles. These dishes often incorporate gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste, which adds depth and complexity to the spice.
If you’d like to experiment further, you can swap out the Sriracha for gochujang to bring a more authentic Korean taste to this dish. Gochujang provides a richer, fermented spice that blends beautifully with soy sauce and honey, making it an excellent alternative for those who love deeper, umami packed flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Spicy Korean Chicken is best enjoyed with sides that complement its bold flavors. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Steamed White Rice – A classic pairing that absorbs the rich, spicy sauce and balances the heat.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables – Bok choy, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add texture and nutrition to your meal.
- Kimchi – A staple in Korean cuisine, kimchi adds a tangy, fermented crunch that enhances the dish’s depth.
- Pickled Radish – A popular side dish for spicy foods, pickled radish provides a refreshing contrast to the heat.
- Lettuce Wraps – For a lighter option, wrap the spicy chicken in lettuce leaves with fresh cucumber and carrots.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to modify the dish based on your preferences:
- Protein Alternatives – Instead of chicken, try shrimp, tofu, or even beef strips for a different take on the dish.
- Vegetable Additions – Add bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to make it a well rounded stir fry.
- Grain Swaps – Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
- Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free Adjustments – Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten free option, and double check that all ingredients align with your dietary needs.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Spicy Korean Chicken
To ensure the best results, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor – If you have time, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For an even deeper flavor, leave it in the fridge overnight.
- Use High Heat for Searing – Cooking the chicken over medium high heat helps create a beautiful caramelized crust, locking in the juices while adding extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce Reduction – Simmering the marinade into a thick glaze makes a big difference in taste and texture. It ensures that every bite is coated in a rich, sticky sauce.
- Adjust the Sweetness and Spice – If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little extra honey. If you want it spicier, increase the chili powder or Sriracha.
- Garnish Generously – Toppings like chopped peanuts, green onions, and lime wedges enhance the dish by adding crunch, freshness, and acidity.
Storing and Reheating
Spicy Korean Chicken stores well, making it a great option for leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration – Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – Warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each round.
- Freezing – If you’d like to freeze it, store the cooked chicken in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion:
Spicy Korean Chicken is a must try dish for anyone who loves bold, flavorful meals. It brings together heat, sweetness, and umami in a way that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep friendly dish, or a crowd pleasing recipe, this Korean inspired creation is sure to satisfy.
With its simple ingredients and versatile preparation, this dish is a fantastic way to explore Korean flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. So go ahead whip up a batch of this delicious Spicy Korean Chicken and enjoy a restaurant quality meal in the comfort of your home!