Name: Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Korean
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; Extra chopped green onions

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Introduction

This Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe is a delicious way to enjoy Korean flavors at home without hassle. Tender chicken strips marinated in a sweet and savory sauce cook quickly to deliver a satisfying, flavorful meal perfect for any night.

A white bowl filled with a layer of plain white rice as the base, topped with several pieces of glazed grilled chicken that have a shiny, caramelized brown color with some charred edges, and sprinkled with small pieces of fresh green onion and white sesame seeds for garnish. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, chopped green onions, black pepper, and optional chili flakes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Slice the chicken into thin, even strips to ensure quick cooking and better flavor absorption. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade until well coated. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more depth of flavor.
Step 3: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized around the edges.
Step 4: Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Tips & Variations

Slice the chicken thinly for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
Marinate overnight in the fridge for a richer, more intense taste.
Cook over high heat for a beautiful caramelized sear on the chicken.
Do not overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space to brown properly instead of steaming.
Lightly toast sesame seeds before garnishing to add nuttiness and crunch.
For a spicy version, add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or extra chili flakes to the marinade.
Try a vegetarian swap by using firm tofu or mushrooms instead of chicken.
Use pineapple juice in the marinade for natural sweetness and tenderizing effect.
Make it gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Grill the marinated chicken instead of pan-frying for a smoky, charred finish.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Bulgogi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or sesame oil to avoid drying out, or microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a bottom layer of plain white rice, topped with a generous layer of grilled chicken pieces that have a brown, slightly charred glaze. The chicken is garnished with small chopped green onions and a sprinkling of white sesame seeds, adding texture and color contrast. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain tender and juicy and provide a slightly richer flavor, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes. If possible, 1 to 2 hours will deepen the flavor significantly.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild and sweet, but you can add chili flakes or Korean chili paste (gochujang) to increase the heat to your liking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the dish gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

What is the best way to serve Chicken Bulgogi?

Serve over steamed rice with fresh vegetables, or wrap the bulgogi in crisp lettuce leaves for a tasty Korean-style meal experience.