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Chicken Bulgogi

Chicken Bulgogi

  • Author: Eric
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This quick and easy Chicken Bulgogi recipe brings a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with tender marinated chicken thighs infused with aromatic spices. Ideal for busy weeknights, it features a flavorful marinade made from natural soy sauce, brown sugar, grape juice, and sesame oil, creating a delightful caramelized finish. Quick to prepare and versatile, this dish can be customized and served with steamed rice or fresh lettuce wraps for a satisfying Korean-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons natural soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons grape juice
  • 1 tablespoon natural sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (fresh)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent mixed with water (optional, for glaze)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnishes

  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine natural soy sauce, brown sugar, grape juice, natural sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well blended to create a balanced sweet and savory marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Toss the thinly sliced chicken thighs thoroughly in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the chicken.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of natural sesame oil. Add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and edges are caramelized. For a glossy finish, sprinkle the natural gelling agent mixture during the last minute of cooking and stir to coat the chicken.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve hot alongside steamed rice or wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into thin slices for better flavor absorption and even cooking.
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes and no longer than 8 hours to prevent chicken from becoming too soft.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to achieve caramelization while keeping chicken juicy.
  • Adjust brown sugar quantity to your preferred sweetness level.
  • Use freshly minced garlic and ginger for enhanced flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Chicken Bulgogi, Korean chicken recipe, sweet and spicy chicken, marinated chicken, quick weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://smartmealsguide.com/chicken-bulgogi/