Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! These sweet and spicy Korean chicken thighs are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a fun weekend meal. This easy recipe delivers big on taste, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Get ready to experience a burst of authentic Korean flavors in every bite! This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) - you can find this in most Asian grocery stores
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This is a crucial step for achieving tender and flavorful chicken.
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Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to break up any large clumps of chicken as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
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Serve it up: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. This recipe makes a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the marinade.
- Add some veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add some extra texture by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: For an even easier cleanup, spread the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, increase it if you like a sweeter flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe is a celebration of simple, delicious, and healthy homemade cooking. It's one of the best recipes for satisfying your Korean food cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!