Honey Gochujang Chicken

Honey Gochujang Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the spicy depth of gochujang with the sweetness of honey, creating a perfect balance of heat and savory sweetness. This quick, Korean-inspired meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and spicy flavor that’s deeply satisfying
• Ready in about 20 minutes with minimal ingredients
• Uses pantry staples like honey, soy sauce, and garlic
• Versatile—serve with rice, noodles, or veggies
• Easy to make in a skillet, oven, or air fryer

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Mirin or rice vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Potato starch or cornstarch
• Neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
• Salt and pepper
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. In a bowl, mix gochujang, honey, soy sauce, mirin, and garlic to create the sauce.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Toss in starch to coat lightly.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in batches, searing until golden and cooked through.
4. Add the sauce to the skillet. Stir and cook until the sauce is thickened and coats the chicken.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2–4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture
• Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar
• Add ginger or sesame oil for extra depth
• Bake at 425°F for 30–35 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 18–20 minutes
• Make it vegetarian with tofu or cauliflower

Storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
• Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much
• Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are juicier and work great in this recipe.

2. What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that’s spicy, sweet, and savory.

3. Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a moderate kick. Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your taste.

4. Can I make it less sweet?

Yes, reduce the honey or use a less sweet alternative like rice syrup.

5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, mix and refrigerate the sauce up to 3 days ahead.

6. What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with steamed rice, noodles, stir-fried veggies, or a green salad.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just double all the ingredients and cook in batches.

8. Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and check your gochujang brand.

9. How do I get a thick, glossy sauce?

Simmer the sauce with the chicken until it reduces and coats the pieces well.

10. Can I make it in the oven?

Yes, bake at 425°F and glaze with the sauce during the last 5–10 minutes.

Conclusion

Honey Gochujang Chicken is a spicy-sweet, savory delight that’s fast, flavorful, and flexible. With easy ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy nights or impressing guests. Enjoy it with rice, veggies, or however you like—this dish is sure to become a staple.

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