Gochujang Chicken Recipe | Juicy Gochujang Chicken Thighs

If you're a fan of bold flavors and spicy dishes, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible Gochujang Chicken Thighs recipe. Bursting with the rich umami taste of Korean cuisine, these chicken thighs are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You'll Love These Chicken Thighs

• Flavorful and Spicy. Gochujang, a Korean fermented chili paste, adds depth and heat to these chicken thighs, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor.
• Easy Weeknight Dinner. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile. Serve these Gochujang Chicken Thighs with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a satisfying and flavorful meal that's sure to impress.
• Family Favorite. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, these spicy chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What Does Gochujang Taste Like?

Gochujang offers a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and umami flavors, making it a prized condiment in Korean cooking. Its bold and robust taste can elevate a wide range of dishes, from marinades and sauces to soups, stews, and stir-fries.

Is Gochujang Healthy?

Gochujang, a Korean fermented chili paste, can be a healthy addition to your diet when consumed in moderation. Here are some reasons why:

• Fermented Ingredients- Gochujang is traditionally made through fermentation, which can enhance its nutritional profile. Fermented foods often contain beneficial probiotics that support gut health and digestion.
• Rich in Antioxidants- Gochujang contains red chili peppers, which are rich in antioxidants like capsaicin. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Low in Calories- Gochujang is relatively low in calories, making it a flavorful way to add depth to dishes without significantly increasing calorie intake.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Chicken Thighs- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are best for this recipe, as they stay moist and juicy during cooking.
• Gochujang- This Korean chili paste is the star ingredient, providing spicy heat and rich flavor.
• Soy Sauce- Adds savory depth of flavor and a touch of saltiness to the dish.
• Honey- Balances out the heat from the Gochujang with its natural sweetness.
• Garlic and Ginger- Aromatic and flavorful, garlic and ginger add complexity to the marinade.
• Rice Vinegar- Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle tangy flavor.
• Sesame Oil- Adds a nutty aroma and depth of flavor to the marinade.
• Green Onions- Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
• Sesame Seeds- Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a nutty flavor to the chicken thighs.

How To Make Gochujang Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade. In a bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Air Fryer Instructions. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
4. Oven Instructions. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
5. Serve and Enjoy. Remove the chicken thighs from the air fryer or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make delicious Gochujang Chicken Thighs:

• Adjust Spice Level. Gochujang can vary in spiciness, so adjust the amount according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can mix the gochujang with some tomato paste or ketchup to reduce the heat.
• Check for Doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when fully cooked. Alternatively, make a small cut near the bone to check if the juices run clear.
• Rest Before Serving. Allow the cooked chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

Variations

Here are some tasty variations to try with your Gochujang Chicken Thighs:

• Spicy Mayo- Whip up a spicy gochujang mayo by mixing mayonnaise with gochujang paste, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dash of garlic powder. Serve this creamy sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle it over the cooked chicken thighs for added flavor.
• Sticky Gochujang BBQ Sauce- Make a sticky gochujang BBQ sauce by combining gochujang paste with ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Simmer the sauce until thickened, then brush it onto the chicken thighs during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Korean BBQ Style- Transform your Gochujang Chicken Thighs into Korean BBQ by thinly slicing the cooked chicken and serving it in lettuce wraps with rice, kimchi, and a drizzle of gochujang sauce.

What To Serve With Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang Chicken Thighs are incredibly flavorful and versatile, making them a perfect centerpiece for a delicious meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes to serve alongside it:

• Rice- A classic choice that pairs well with the spicy and savory flavors of Gochujang Chicken. The fluffy texture of steamed rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Asian Slaw- A crunchy and refreshing Asian slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing adds a vibrant contrast to the rich and spicy chicken.
• Kimchi- This traditional Korean side dish of fermented vegetables, most commonly made with cabbage, adds a tangy and spicy kick that complements the Gochujang Chicken perfectly.
• Cucumber Salad- A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar provides a cooling and refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.

How Long Does It Last?

Gochujang Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven until heated through before serving.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Gochujang Chicken Thighs for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Ways To Use Gochujang

• Korean Wings
• Pork Bulgogi
• Korean Dak Galbi
• Beef Bulgogi Burgers
• Korean Beef Tacos

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