Name: Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean hot pepper flakes); 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste, hot variety); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice syrup (or honey/corn syrup); 2-3 spicy Korean chili peppers, chopped (or other small spicy red chilies); 6 large garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons grated ginger; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup water or chicken stock; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional); Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish; Extra hot pepper flakes, for garnish

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Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping ignites your taste buds with every bite, combining the zesty flavors of Korean cuisine with the indulgent melt of cheese. This savory dish features succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a fiery blend of gochugaru and gochujang, then layered under a bubbling, golden cheese that creates a perfect contrast. It’s a delightful explosion of flavors, giving you a mouthwatering meal that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. Perfect for any occasion, whether a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Dive into the world of rich flavors with this step-by-step guide that will make your cooking experience enjoyable and hassle-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Korean Chicken is not just about bold flavors; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare! With minimal ingredients required, you’re on your way to creating an unforgettable meal without breaking a sweat. The recipe is family-friendly, meaning even picky eaters can enjoy it, thanks to customizable levels of spice. Plus, this dish can be made relatively quickly, so whether you’re a novice or seasoned chef, you will find joy in the ease of preparation.

Ingredients for Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup gochugaru (Korean hot pepper flakes)
1/4 cup gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste, hot variety)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice syrup (or honey/corn syrup)
2-3 spicy Korean chili peppers, chopped (or other small spicy red chilies)
6 large garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons grated ginger
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup water or chicken stock
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Extra hot pepper flakes, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions for Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

Begin your culinary adventure by mixing together gochugaru, gochujang, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, rice syrup, chopped chilies, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl to form a thick, aromatic paste. Next, take your bite-sized chicken pieces, add them to the marinade, and mix until every morsel is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour to absorb those rich flavors.

Once the chicken has marinated, preheat a large oven-proof pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken along with the water or chicken stock. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, during which the chicken will cook through and the sauce will reduce beautifully. Afterward, remove the lid, turn the oven to BROIL, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is molten and beginning to brown, creating a delectable, crusty top. Finally, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve hot!

Tips & Tricks for Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

For this dish, a few chef’s secrets can elevate it even further. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight instead of just an hour. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat more thoroughly. If you’re after extra heat, feel free to add more chili peppers or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; cheddar adds a sharp bite, while gouda brings an interesting twist. For those avoiding dairy, skip the cheese altogether or use a dairy-free alternative to keep the dish vegan!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving Spicy Korean Chicken, presentation is key. Serve it in a vibrant dish topped with fresh herbs, and sprinkle extra hot pepper flakes for a pop of color. Pair it with fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice, which balances the dish’s spiciness wonderfully. For a complete meal, serve alongside a light, crunchy cucumber salad coated with sesame dressing or some simple stir-fried veggies. A refreshing drink like iced green tea can enhance the flavors and cleanse your palate.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in Spicy Korean Chicken, it’s important to keep an eye on nutritional details. This dish is packed with proteins from the chicken and essential nutrients from the spices and herbs. As a rough guide, a serving of this dish might contain approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the portions and toppings. It provides a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a fulfilling meal. Keep your indulgence balanced by controlling portion sizes and pairing it with healthy sides.

Storing Tips & Variations for Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. For a fun twist, consider creating a Spicy Korean Chicken wrap using lettuce leaves or tortillas, topped with crunchy veggies. To make a healthier version, swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts and use low-fat cheese or simply reduce the amount of cheese used.

Conclusion for Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

Don’t wait any longer to tantalize your taste buds with Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping! This dish, bursting with flavor and rich textures, is an absolute must-try for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. With easy preparation and customizable heat levels, it’s an ideal recipe that everyone will love. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and take the plunge. You’re just steps away from digging into a plate of spicy, cheesy goodness!

FAQs

Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner cuts of meat; just be sure to adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, so feel free to make a large batch for easy weeknight meals.
What if I don’t have gochujang?
If gochujang is unavailable, you can create a substitute using red chili paste or a mix of crushed red pepper flakes with a bit of sugar.
Can I make it less spicy?
Certainly! You can reduce the amount of gochugaru, gochujang, and fresh chilies to suit your taste.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit, marinating them in the same spicy mixture for a delicious vegetarian option.

Spicy Korean Chicken with Cheesy Topping

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A mouthwatering dish that combines zesty Korean flavors with indulgent cheese, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Begin by mixing together gochugaru, gochujang, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, rice syrup, chopped chilies, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl to form a thick, aromatic paste.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, and mix until every morsel is well-coated.
Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour to absorb those rich flavors.
Preheat a large oven-proof pan over medium heat.
Add the marinated chicken along with the water or chicken stock.
Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Remove the lid, turn the oven to BROIL, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken.
Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is molten and beginning to brown.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve hot!