This Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and heat to your table in record time. Growing up, I always had a soft spot for spicy food, and Korean chicken holds a special place in my heart. I remember the sizzling sound of chicken cooking in a pan, the aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the kitchen, and the excitement of sharing this dish with friends. Join me on this culinary adventure filled with enticing flavors and simple cooking methods.
Table of Contents
What is the Origin of Spicy Korean Chicken?
Korean cooking is rich with history, and spicy chicken dishes are an integral part of it. The use of ingredients like Sriracha and ginger reflects both traditional and modern Korean culinary practices. The dish draws inspiration from Korean fried chicken, known for its crispy exterior and flavorful marinades.
Traditionally, Korean recipes utilize gochujang, a fermented chili paste, which provides depth. However, for accessibility, Sriracha embodies that spicy profile and enhances the dish. The inclusion of tenderstem broccoli is not only a nod to health but also an enjoyable contrast in texture. Whether prepared for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken has redefined my love for Korean cuisine.
What Ingredients and Preparation Do You Need?
Yes, you can make this easy spicy Korean chicken in 30 minutes, and yes, the ingredients are straightforward! You will need chicken, Sriracha for that kick, and a few pantry staples for the marinade.
| Ingredient |
|---|
| Chicken breast fillets |
| Vegetable oil |
| Sriracha |
| Cornstarch |
| Soy sauce |
| Honey |
| Fresh ginger |
| Garlic |
| Chili powder |
| Steamed rice |
| Tenderstem broccoli |
| Dry roasted peanuts |
| Lime wedges |
| Green onions |
The aromatic ginger and garlic play a crucial role in this dish. Ginger adds heat and a hint of sweetness, while garlic brings depth, making them indispensable. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian twist. Alternatively, if you’re counting carbs, you could use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
How to Make Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken Step by Step?
Making this dish is a breeze, and here’s how to do it in steps that guarantee success!
Step 1
Start by whisking together two tablespoons of vegetable oil, Sriracha, cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, minced garlic, and chili powder in a bowl. The result will be a smooth marinade that coats the chicken beautifully.
Step 2
Cut the chicken breast fillets into strips and add them to the marinade, ensuring that they are thoroughly coated. Cover and let them soak up the flavors in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or if you have more time, marinate them overnight for an intensified taste.
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Nutritional Value (per serving) | Calories: 350 | Protein: 30g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 10g |
Step 3
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Using tongs, lift the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place it in the hot skillet. Discard the leftover marinade. Cook for about 5 to 10 minutes until the chicken strips are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Now, remember that reserved marinade? Pour it into the skillet with the chicken, and let it simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens, creating a shiny, sticky sauce that adheres beautifully to the chicken.
Serve this delightful dish over a bed of steamed rice with tenderstem broccoli on the side. Top it all off with chopped peanuts and sliced green onions. Don’t forget to squeeze some lime juice before digging in to enhance the flavor explosion!
Why Does This Recipe Work?
The secret to the success of this recipe lies in its harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and umami flavors. The marinade does an excellent job of tenderizing the chicken, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Simplistic and Quick
This recipe bites into simplicity. With only a few key ingredients, you can prepare a dish that packs a punch in flavor without overwhelming complexity. Combining liquid ingredients such as soy sauce, honey, and the spicy notes from Sriracha creates a delightful marinade that keeps the chicken moist.
Versatility
Equipped with the base marinade, you can customize this dish further. Add your favorite vegetables or explore other proteins like tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist. This recipe can adapt to dietary preferences while still being quick to prepare!
Health Benefits
Packed with lean protein from the chicken and vibrant vegetables, this dish is not just tasty but nutritious too. Ingredients like ginger and garlic are known for their health benefits and add aromatic layers to the dish. Pairing the chicken with steamed rice and tenderstem broccoli enhances the nutritional profile, making it a wholesome meal.
Can’t get enough of easy chicken recipes? For another delicious option, check out this Healthy Chicken and Rice Bowl or explore the depth of flavor in Cilantro Lime Chicken. Korean cuisine is filled with stunning recipes that deserve a spot on your dinner table!
Variations & Serving Ideas
There are so many ways to enjoy this spicy Korean chicken! You can easily swap ingredients or create a fusion dish to surprise your guests.
Swap Out Proteins
If you are looking to change up the protein, consider using shrimp or even tofu. Marinating these alternatives in the same spicy blend will yield delightful results.
| Alternative Protein | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Shrimp | 5-7 minutes |
| Tofu | 5-10 minutes |
Creative Serving Styles
Consider serving the chicken in lettuce wraps for a fun, finger-food twist. Also, if you want a heartier option, serve the dish with a side of Korean pancakes for extra crunch and flavor.
Meal Prep Magic
For easy meal prep, prepare a big batch of the spicy marinade and divide it into bags with your choice of protein. Freeze them for quick weeknight dinners without the hassle!
Another delicious idea is this Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup that is just as quick and hearty!
Final Thoughts
Your taste buds deserve an adventure with this Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken recipe. The combination of the sweet and spicy marinade gives the chicken a delectable flavor that is hard to resist. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but is also excellent for sharing with those you love.
As you dive into this culinary experience, remember that cooking is all about discovery. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors, textures, and even presentation. Once you try this recipe, you will want to explore more delicious dishes like it. For more inspirations, check out my Pinterest page and save your favorites!
FAQ
How spicy is the Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken recipe?
This dish can be adjusted to your personal spice preference. The Sriracha and chili powder provide heat, but feel free to reduce their quantity if a milder flavor is desired. You can also complement the heat with lime juice for a refreshing finish.
What can I serve with spicy Korean chicken?
The dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables like tenderstem broccoli. Additionally, you could serve it in lettuce wraps or alongside Korean pancakes for an extra treat.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. Additionally, the dish saves well for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chicken keeps well for meal prep. Just cook a larger batch and portion out for future meals, making sure to reheat properly before serving.
What is a good substitute for Sriracha?
If you don’t have Sriracha, you can use other chili sauces or even red pepper flakes for spice. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Easy 30 Minute Spicy Korean Chicken
Experience the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine with this easy spicy chicken recipe that comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast fillets
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha
- 0.5 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Steamed rice
- Tenderstem broccoli
- Dry roasted peanuts
- Lime wedges
- Green onions
Instructions
- Whisk together vegetable oil, Sriracha, cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, minced garlic, and chili powder in a bowl to create the marinade.
- Cut the chicken breast fillets into strips and coat them in the marinade. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-10 minutes.
- Add the reserved marinade to the skillet and simmer until it thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed rice, with tenderstem broccoli, chopped peanuts, and sliced green onions, adding lime juice before serving.
Notes
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu. For a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower rice instead of steamed rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: High Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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