Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honey Gochujang Chicken is a must-try dish that masterfully blends sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Gochujang, a Korean fermented chili paste, brings deep umami and heat, while honey balances it with a rich sweetness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this sticky, flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables and delivers a satisfying kick in every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken thighs or breastsgochujanghoneesoy saucesesame oilgarlicgingerrice vinegarbrown sugarscallionssesame seedsvegetable oil
directions
In a bowl, mix gochujang, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and brown sugar to create the marinade.
Add the chicken and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until caramelized and cooked through.
Optional: Pour in any remaining marinade and simmer until thickened and glossy.
Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes to overnightCooking time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes to overnight
Variations
Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein.
Add a squeeze of lime for a citrusy twist.
Include vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a full meal.
Make it milder by reducing the amount of gochujang.
Serve over noodles instead of rice for variety.
storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
What is gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, rice, and red chili pepper, known for its spicy, sweet, and savory flavor.
Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sauce.
Is this dish very spicy?
It has a medium heat level; you can adjust the gochujang and honey ratio to taste.
Can I use chicken wings or drumsticks?
Absolutely, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, marinate in advance and cook when ready. It tastes even better the next day!
Conclusion
Honey Gochujang Chicken is a bold and delicious dish that brings Korean flavors to your dinner table with ease. With its sticky, spicy-sweet glaze and juicy meat, it’s sure to become a staple for spice lovers and flavor seekers alike. Serve it with rice, veggies, or noodles for a complete, mouthwatering meal.
Print
Honey Gochujang Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A sweet, spicy, and savory dish featuring chicken coated in a sticky honey-gochujang sauce, perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced thinly, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Marinate chicken pieces in half of the sauce for 15–20 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Pour in the remaining sauce mixture and stir to coat the chicken.
- Stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce; cook an additional 1–2 minutes until glossy and thick.
- Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- You can use chicken breast, but thighs stay juicier.
- Adjust honey or gochujang to suit your sweetness/spice preference.
- Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3 days.