Chicken Bulgogi Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Bulgogi is a flavorful Korean-inspired dish featuring tender strips of marinated chicken cooked to juicy perfection. This quick and easy recipe brings savory, sweet, and spicy notes together for a satisfying meal you can enjoy any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Extra chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, chopped green onions, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using) until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is smooth.
2. Step 2: Slice the chicken into thin, even strips for quick and even cooking. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or refrigerate up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Step 3: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and edges are caramelized.
4. Step 4: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken thighs for more tenderness and juiciness compared to breasts.
• For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a drizzle of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) to the marinade.
• Serve over steamed rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a classic Korean experience.
• Marinate the chicken longer for a stronger flavor, but avoid exceeding 4 hours to prevent texture changes.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through to maintain juiciness. The marinated raw chicken can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before cooking for best flavor and safety.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef, pork, or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked properly.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Chicken Bulgogi Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 128 reviews

This Chicken Bulgogi recipe offers a quick and flavorful Korean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken strips marinated in a savory-sweet mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, then pan-cooked to perfection with a caramelized finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it brings tender, juicy bites garnished with toasted sesame seeds and green onions.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Korean
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Marinade

• 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
• 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 chili flakes if using, until the sugar is fully dissolved and the marinade is smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Slice the chicken into thin, even strips to ensure quick cooking and better absorption of flavors. Toss the chicken strips thoroughly in the marinade, making sure all pieces are coated well. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized on the edges.
4. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
• Marinate longer if time allows, to deepen the flavor.
• Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
• Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: Chicken Bulgogi, Korean chicken, marinated chicken, stir fry chicken, sesame chicken, Korean recipe, soy sauce chicken