Skillet Chicken Bulgogi
Skillet Chicken Bulgogi is a quick and flavorful Korean-inspired chicken recipe made with tender pieces of marinated chicken.The marinade combines soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sweetness for a balanced flavor.Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet creates delicious caramelized edges.The dish can be served with rice, noodles, lettuce, or vegetables.It is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal preparation, and family meals.Every bite delivers a wonderful combination of sweet, savory, aromatic, and slightly spicy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
For the Bulgogi Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon gochujang or Korean chili paste (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely grated apple or pear
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken thighs into thin, bite-sized pieces. Using boneless chicken thighs helps keep the meat juicy and tender during cooking.
Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, gochujang, black pepper, grated apple or pear, and sesame seeds.
Marinate the Chicken
- Add the sliced chicken to the bowl and mix well until every piece is coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the Skillet
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the cooking oil. Allow the skillet to become hot before adding the chicken.
Cook the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and develops caramelized edges.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished Skillet Chicken Bulgogi. Serve immediately with steamed rice, lettuce leaves, kimchi, or your favorite vegetables.
Notes
- Chicken thighs are recommended because they remain tender and juicy.
- Chicken breast can also be used for a leaner version.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet, as this may cause the chicken to steam instead of caramelize.
- Marinating the chicken longer can enhance its flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your personal preference.
- Gochujang adds heat and authentic Korean-inspired flavor.
- Grated pear or apple helps add natural sweetness to the marinade.
- Always ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before serving.