Go Back
–+ servings
Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang Chicken features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs glazed in a bold, savory-spicy sauce made with fermented gochujang paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This authentic Korean-inspired dish comes together in just 30 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.
Save this recipe on Pinterest for later! Print
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Emily Carter

Ingredients

  • 1 to 1.25 pounds boneless chicken thighs diced into bite-sized pieces, boneless skinless chicken breasts may be substituted
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons soy sauce use regular, lite, tamari, or coconut aminos for gluten-free
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar brown sugar may be substituted
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 to 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or another neutral oil like avocado oil for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs cilantro or basil, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • 1 whole green onion sliced into thin rounds

Instructions

  • Combine wet ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 to 4 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 to 2 tablespoons gochujang paste, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil until smooth and well combined.
  • Mix the spices: In another small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch. This blend will infuse the chicken with warming spice and help thicken the glaze.
  • Season your chicken: Pat dry 1 to 1.25 pounds diced chicken thighs with paper towels, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
  • Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil for about 1 minute until shimmering.
  • Sear the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook without stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown, then stir and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until mostly cooked through.
  • Add the glaze: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and stir gently to coat all pieces evenly. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken in a glossy layer.
  • Finish cooking: Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes more until the chicken is fully cooked through and the glaze reaches your desired consistency.