Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Bulgogi recipe featuring tender marinated chicken thighs infused with a savory, sweet, and mildly spicy Korean-inspired marinade. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish combines natural ingredients like vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, gochujang (natural), and sesame oil for an authentic taste that is perfect for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced into thin strips
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 1/2 tbsp gochujang (natural) or Korean red chili paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish and marinade mixing)
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Variations
- Sliced bell peppers or mushrooms (for vegetable boost)
- Extra chili flakes or more gochujang (natural) for spiciness
- Date syrup (natural) or maple syrup (natural) instead of brown sugar for sweetness variation
- Low-sodium soy sauce (natural) for a lower salt option
- Fresh basil or cilantro for herb infusion
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang (natural), soy sauce (natural), and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth and flavorful.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs into the marinade and toss well to coat. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a non-stick or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a splash of sesame oil. Cook the marinated chicken strips in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook each side for about 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken is caramelized and fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and black pepper on top. Serve immediately on steamed rice, in lettuce wraps, or as preferred.
Notes
- Thin slicing of chicken is essential to ensure quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Marinating for at least 20 minutes enhances taste, while longer marinating times up to 2 hours develop richness.
- Cooking in batches avoids steaming the chicken and ensures a nice sear.
- Use freshly minced garlic and grated ginger for the best aroma and brightness.
- Adjust the amount of gochujang (natural) gradually to fit your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Cooking on stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Chicken Bulgogi, Korean chicken, spicy chicken, marinated chicken, weeknight dinner, easy Korean recipe
