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Chicken Bulgogi Recipe

4.8 from 213 reviews

This Chicken Bulgogi recipe offers a deliciously savory and slightly sweet Korean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken strips marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, then quickly pan-cooked to caramelized perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for an authentic finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Garnish

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Extra chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, sesame oil, chopped green onions, black pepper, and optional chili flakes. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Slice the chicken into thin, even strips to ensure quick cooking and better flavor absorption. Toss the chicken strips thoroughly in the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to allow all sides to caramelize and the chicken to cook through thoroughly.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions. Serve immediately while the chicken is warm, juicy, and flavorful.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful dish, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level, or omit for a milder taste.
  • Marinating longer enhances flavor but does not need to exceed 2 hours to prevent texture changes.
  • Serve with steamed rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for an authentic Korean experience.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.

Keywords: Chicken Bulgogi, Korean chicken recipe, fast Korean dinner, marinated chicken, sesame chicken, Korean BBQ chicken