Easy Chicken Bulgogi: The Ultimate Korean Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Introduction to Easy Chicken Bulgogi
Easy Chicken Bulgogi is a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Korea right into your kitchen! This quick and healthy stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights while still being a crowd-pleaser. With tender pieces of chicken marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and gochujang, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-quality meals at home.
A Personal Story Behind My Easy Chicken Bulgogi Journey
Growing up, I was always fascinated by the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine, especially Korean dishes. I remember the first time I tried Chicken Bulgogi at a local restaurant; the flavors were bold, and the aroma was irresistible. After many attempts, I finally perfected my version of this dish, and now I want to share it with you! It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory that brings warmth and joy to my family table.
What Makes This Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and versatility. The marinade is quick to whip up, and it infuses the chicken with incredible flavor in just a couple of hours—or even overnight for those who plan ahead. Plus, you can customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables, making it a colorful and nutritious meal. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory makes this dish a must-try for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine.
The Full Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until the sugar dissolves completely. This will ensure a well-blended flavor.
- Cut the chicken into 2-inch pieces, trimming any excess fat. Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil, ensuring the bottom is well-coated. This helps prevent sticking.
- Add the marinated chicken and chopped cabbage to the skillet. If using a griddle pan, brush it with oil before adding the chicken and cabbage.
- Cook the chicken and cabbage for about 2 minutes. Then, add 2 tablespoons of the marinade for extra flavor and toss everything together for another minute.
- Add another 2 tablespoons of marinade and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. If needed, add more marinade to prevent drying out.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken and cabbage to a plate and top with finely chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Easy Chicken Bulgogi
Serve your Chicken Bulgogi over a bed of steaming white rice or with warm tortillas for a fun twist. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables to enhance the meal’s flavor profile. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as leftovers can be enjoyed cold in a salad or reheated for lunch!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chicken Bulgogi
Q: Can I use other proteins for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with beef or tofu for a delicious variation.
Q: How spicy is Chicken Bulgogi?
A: The level of spice can be adjusted by varying the amount of gochujang used in the marinade. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and increase according to your taste!
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance, making it a great option for meal planning or a quick weeknight dinner.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: 280
Servings: 4
Easy Chicken Bulgogi
Equipment
- Skillet For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 2 units green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Whisk all marinade ingredients in a bowl until the sugar dissolves.
- Cut chicken into 2-inch pieces, removing excess fat. Add chicken to the marinade, ensuring it's coated well. Marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and coat the surface. Add marinated chicken and cabbage.
- Cook chicken and cabbage for 2 minutes, then add 2 tablespoons of marinade. Toss for another minute, then add another 2 tablespoons of marinade. Cook for 2-3 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Add more marinade if needed.
- Transfer cooked chicken and cabbage to a plate, and top with green onions. Serve hot.