Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak: The Ultimate Fiery Delight Recipe

Name: Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, chopped; 0.25 cup Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru); 0.25 cup gochujang; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey/mirin/corn syrup); 2 count green chili peppers, chopped; 6 count large garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 0.25 cup water or unsalted chicken stock; 2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional); 2 stalks green onions, for garnish; 0.5 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Introduction to Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak

If you crave bold flavors and a hint of spice, then Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak is the dish for you! This Korean-inspired recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a fiery, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home, this dish brings a delightful kick to your dining experience. Perfect for all ages, it’s easy to prepare and packs a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

A Personal Story Behind My Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak Journey

Growing up, I always found comfort in the kitchen, and my love for cooking flourished as I discovered various cuisines. My first encounter with Buldak was during a family gathering, where the spicy aroma filled the air, enticing everyone to dig in. I remember the warmth of family and friends gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter over this delicious dish. Inspired by that moment, I set out to create my version of Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak, ensuring it would be just as memorable and flavorful as I remembered.

What Makes This Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak Recipe Special?

This Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak recipe stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The star of the dish is the combination of Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru) and gochujang, which provide a rich, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The addition of melted mozzarella cheese creates a creamy texture that beautifully balances the heat. Plus, this recipe is versatile—you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, making it perfect for everyone at the table!

The Full Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak Recipe

Ingredients

500g (about 1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, chopped
1/4 cup Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru)
1/4 cup gochujang
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey/mirin/corn syrup)
2 green chili peppers, chopped
6 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/4 cup water or unsalted chicken stock
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
2 stalks green onions, for garnish
1/2 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the gochugaru, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugars, chopped green chilies, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix them well until a thick paste forms. This marinade is key to infusing flavor into the chicken.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. For maximum flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to cook, heat a pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade. Sear one side for about 2-3 minutes until it develops a nice golden color.
Flip the chicken to sear the other side evenly for another 2-3 minutes. This step helps lock in the juices and flavor.

Next, pour in the water or chicken stock, stirring to combine with the chicken and sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the chicken. Cover the pan with a lid and let the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes.
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the lid, turn off the heat, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak

Serve your Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak hot, straight from the pan for the best experience! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed rice, which helps balance the spiciness. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. If you want to switch things up, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the pan while cooking. For those who enjoy extra heat, feel free to increase the amount of gochugaru or add more chopped green chili peppers to the marinade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts; however, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful in this dish.

Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of gochugaru and gochujang to suit your taste preferences.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze them for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I serve with Spicy Cheesy Chicken Buldak?
This dish goes well with a side of rice, lettuce wraps, or even a fresh salad to balance the flavors.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4