As the rich aroma of marinated chicken fills my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the thought of this Easy Chicken Bulgogi recipe transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a delightful culinary adventure. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine, this dish is a fantastic balance of savory and slightly sweet, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for those evenings when time is tight but good food is non-negotiable. You’ll love how the juicy chicken marries perfectly with crisp vegetables, creating a satisfying texture that leaves everyone wanting more. Ready to take a bite out of this culinary journey? Why is Chicken Bulgogi a Must-Try? Quick preparation: You can whip up this flavorful dish in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights! Savory-sweet balance: The combination of marinated chicken with gochujang brings a delightful mix of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Versatile meal option: Serve it with rice, wrap it in lettuce, or even toss it over noodles for endless possibilities! Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or family, this Chicken Bulgogi is sure to impress—even those who think they’re not “into” Korean food. Healthy choice: Not only is it gluten-free, but it packs in nutritious vegetables like carrots and green onions that enhance both taste and texture. Easy to customize: Want spice? Just add more gochujang! Prefer a vegetarian twist? Swap the chicken for tofu! It’s all about making it your own. Looking for more quick recipes? Check out my Cajun Shrimp Chicken or my delicious Air Fryer Chicken. Chicken Bulgogi Ingredients For the Marinade Soy Sauce – Provides a savory umami flavor; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements; honey or maple syrup can work well too. Minced Garlic – Contributes aromatic depth; fresh cloves give the best flavor, but jarred can be a time-saver. Grated Ginger – Offers a warm, spicy note; if fresh isn’t available, a pinch of ginger powder is a good substitute. Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor; light sesame oil will give a milder taste. Gochujang – Delivers heat and depth of flavor; you can substitute with sriracha mixed with a bit of miso. Rice Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can be used instead. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor profile. For the Chicken and Vegetables Boneless Chicken Thighs – Used for tenderness and juiciness; chicken breast can be substituted, but adjust cooking time. Carrots – Adds freshness and crunch; other vegetables like bell peppers can also be included. Green Onions – Imparts brightness and a slight crunch, enhancing the dish’s appeal. Embrace the vibrant flavors of this Chicken Bulgogi and make your weeknight dining a delightful experience! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Bulgogi Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The marinade should be well-combined and sticky, giving off a fragrant aroma, which hints at the depth of flavor to come in your Chicken Bulgogi. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Thinly slice 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated by mixing them gently with your hands or a spatula. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for maximum flavor penetration, so don’t rush it! Step 3: Prep Vegetables While the chicken marinates, take the opportunity to prepare your veggies. Thinly slice 1 cup of carrots and chop 3 green onions into small pieces. Set them aside in a bowl, ensuring they are ready to be tossed into the savory Chicken Bulgogi later. The colorful vegetables will add brightness and crunch to the finished dish. Step 4: Cook Chicken Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil to prevent sticking. Once the skillet is hot (about 3-5 minutes), add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is caramelized and has a lovely golden-brown color, ensuring it’s cooked through and juicy. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a delicious dinner. Step 5: Add Vegetables Once the chicken has achieved those beautiful caramelized edges, toss in the sliced carrots and chopped green onions into the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for an additional 3-5 minutes, cooking just until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant and slightly crisp. Combining them with the chicken helps infuse the flavors evenly throughout the Chicken Bulgogi. Step 6: Finish and Serve Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Chicken Bulgogi with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for an additional layer of flavor. Serve the dish over steaming jasmine rice, with optional sides like kimchi or a refreshing cucumber salad. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma make this meal a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Bulgogi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance (refrigerate for maximum flavor absorption), making dinner a breeze during your busy weeknights. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the sliced chicken thighs, then cover it tightly. You can also pre-slice the carrots and chop the green onions, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, just heat a skillet, cook the marinated chicken until caramelized, add the prepped vegetables, and enjoy a dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh! Expert Tips for Chicken Bulgogi Marinating Magic: Ensure your chicken marinates for at least 30 minutes to allow all those savory flavors to soak in deeply. Watch the Heat: If using chicken breast instead of thighs, keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent drying out; it’s more forgiving when using thighs. Mix and Match: Feel free to swap the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand; bell peppers or zucchini work great in this Chicken Bulgogi too. Skillet Secrets: Avoid heating leftovers in the microwave. Instead, use a skillet with a dash of water or sesame oil for a perfectly juicy reheat. Spice It Up: For an extra kick, consider adding fresh chopped chilies for a delightful heat that enhances the overall flavor of your Chicken Bulgogi. Storage Tips for Chicken Bulgogi Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Bulgogi in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in a vacuum-sealed bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sesame oil to preserve the juicy texture. Avoid microwaving directly, as it may dry out the chicken. Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen Chicken Bulgogi, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Chicken Bulgogi Variations & Substitutions Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists that will elevate your Chicken Bulgogi experience! Dairy-Free: Swap any creamy sides with coconut yogurt or enjoy it plain for a refreshing touch. Imagine the smooth, creamy yogurt cooling down the spicy flavors, making each bite a perfect balance. Vegan Twist: Replace chicken with firm tofu, marinating and cooking it the same way to soak in all the flavors. Tofu not only absorbs the savory marinade beautifully but also introduces a lovely, silky texture to your dish. Extra Crunch: Add bell peppers or snap peas for an added crunch and bright bursts of color. These vibrant veggies will enhance the visual appeal and provide a delightful texture that complements the juicy chicken. Spicy Kick: Want it hotter? Increase the gochujang or toss in some fresh sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Feel the warmth radiate as the spice dances on your palate, taking your Chicken Bulgogi to a whole new level! Noodle Bowl: Transform this dish into a rich noodle bowl by serving it over udon or soba noodles instead of rice. The noodles will clump together in the flavorful sauce, creating a comforting and hearty twist that’s utterly satisfying. Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve your Chicken Bulgogi wrapped in fresh lettuce leaves, making it a refreshing bite. Crisp lettuce provides the perfect crunch and a refreshing contrast, making each wrap an adventure for your taste buds. Sweet Variations: Incorporate pineapple or mango chunks into the mix for a juicy, tropical sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors. The sweetness adds a depth of flavor, leaving a lingering tropical vibe that will whisk you away on a culinary journey. Explore these variations, or create your own masterpiece with the beloved Chicken Bulgogi! Don’t forget, it’s always fun to share your culinary creations—like this delightful dish complemented with steaming rice or even an accompanying refreshing cucumber salad. What to Serve with Easy Chicken Bulgogi Serving up a meal that tantalizes the taste buds is easy when you know what to pair with your Chicken Bulgogi! Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice perfectly soaks up the savory sauce, providing a comforting backdrop to the vibrant chicken. Pairing it just right keeps every bite balanced and satisfying. Kimchi: This traditional fermented side brings a spicy crunch that complements the sweet and savory notes in Chicken Bulgogi, while adding probiotics for gut health. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a cool, crisp element to the table, balancing the rich flavors and providing a burst of hydration with every bite. Sesame Spinach: Lightly sautéed sesame spinach offers a tender texture and nutty flavor that enhances the dish, while its vivid green color adds freshness to your plate. Pickled Radishes: Thinly sliced and lightly pickled, these radishes provide a crunchy, tangy contrast that brightens each mouthful, drawing out the sweetness of the chicken. Korean Gyoza: These dumplings can be served alongside for added heartiness, with their crispy exterior and savory fillings making them a delightful companion to the bulgogi. Cold Beer or Soju: Pair with a chilled beer or traditional Korean soju for a refreshing drink that enhances the flavor experience, making your meal feel like a true celebration. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet finish creates a delightful end to the meal, balancing the meal’s savory notes with creamy sweetness. You’ll find your Chicken Bulgogi harmoniously complemented by any of these choices, making your dining experience all the more delightful! Chicken Bulgogi Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Chicken Bulgogi? I absolutely recommend using boneless chicken thighs for Chicken Bulgogi! They provide the perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness. While chicken breasts can work as a substitute, remember they tend to dry out more quickly, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. How should I store leftovers of Chicken Bulgogi? Store any leftover Chicken Bulgogi in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal later in the week. If you’re looking to store it longer, freezing is a great option too! Can I freeze Chicken Bulgogi? Yes! You can freeze marinated Chicken Bulgogi for up to 2 months. Here’s how: simply put the raw, marinated chicken in a vacuum-sealed bag or an airtight container, ensuring no air is trapped inside. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then cook as directed. What should I do if my chicken becomes too dry? If you find your chicken becomes dry while cooking, it likely cooked too long. To prevent this, always monitor the cooking time—5-7 minutes per side is ideal for thighs. If reheating, opt for a skillet with a splash of water or sesame oil, which helps maintain moisture. This gentle approach can restore some of the juicy goodness! Is Chicken Bulgogi gluten-free? Absolutely! To make Chicken Bulgogi gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish without worry. Always check labels if you’re sensitive to gluten! Can I use different vegetables in Chicken Bulgogi? Very! While carrots and green onions are traditional, feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have available. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even snap peas can add a colorful and nutritious touch to your Chicken Bulgogi, enhancing both taste and visual appeal. Irresistible Chicken Bulgogi that's Quick and Juicy This quick and juicy Chicken Bulgogi is a delicious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: KoreanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade¼ cup soy sauce substitute with tamari for gluten-free2 tablespoons brown sugar can substitute with honey or maple syrup3 cloves minced garlic fresh cloves preferred1 tablespoon grated ginger substitute with ginger powder if fresh isn't available1 tablespoon sesame oil light sesame oil for a milder taste1 tablespoon gochujang can substitute with sriracha mixed with miso1 tablespoon rice vinegar apple cider vinegar can be usedfreshly ground black pepper to tasteFor the Chicken and Vegetables1 pound boneless chicken thighs can substitute with chicken breast1 cup carrots thinly sliced3 green onions chopped Equipment large skilletMedium BowlWhisk Method Marinade PreparationIn a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, gochujang, rice vinegar, and freshly ground black pepper until well-combined.Chicken MarinatingThinly slice boneless chicken thighs and add to the marinade, mixing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.Prep VegetablesWhile chicken marinates, thinly slice carrots and chop green onions. Set aside.Cook ChickenHeat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side.Add VegetablesAdd sliced carrots and chopped green onions to the skillet, stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender.Finish and ServeRemove skillet from heat, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, and serve over jasmine rice. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best flavor, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes. Adjust cooking time when using chicken breast to prevent drying out. 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