Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

You will love this easy chicken recipe. This sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress guests. With the option to air fry or bake, it offers versatility for any cooking style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and honey creates a unique sweet and spicy glaze that you’ll crave.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer air frying or baking, this recipe fits your preferred method.
• Healthy Option: Using chicken thighs with the skin on adds flavor while keeping it juicy without excess calories.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this tasty dish, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a successful cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer or oven
• Mixing bowl
• Grater (microplane)
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer or oven: Allows for even cooking and crispy skin without frying in oil.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
• Grater (microplane): Helps achieve finely grated garlic for better flavor infusion.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the ingredients, crucial for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

For this Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 6 chicken thighs (boneless, keep the skin on)
• 2 cloves of garlic (grated with microplane)
• 3 stalks of green onions (white and green parts separated)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

How to Make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the gochujang paste, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add the grated garlic, along with the white parts of the green onions, to the marinade. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
3. Allow marinating for at least 15 minutes; longer is better for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Option A: Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the basket.
3. Cook for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked through and crispy on the outside.

Option B: Oven Method

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken thighs on it.
3. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with green parts of the green onions. Serve alongside rice or your favorite sides!

How to Serve Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. You can pair it with various side dishes or use it in different meal settings to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the sticky sauce beautifully.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and complements the chicken well.

In Tacos

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with the chicken, topped with fresh cilantro and diced onions for a fun twist.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a low-carb option that’s refreshing.

On Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss the chicken over mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh meal.
• Asian Slaw: Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing for a crunchy side that pairs perfectly.

As Appetizers

• Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, skewer them, and serve with toothpicks for easy eating.
• Gochujang Dipping Sauce: Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing each bite.

How to Perfect Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

To ensure your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold marinade choice: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Bold cooking temperature: Preheat your air fryer or oven adequately. A hot cooking environment helps achieve crispy skin while keeping the inside juicy.
• Bold check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Bold garnish options: Top with sliced green onions or sesame seeds after cooking for added flavor and presentation.
• Bold avoid overcrowding: When air frying, do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve optimal crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Pairing your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken with delightful sides will elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-infused rice that adds a tropical flair.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender complement the flavors perfectly.
3. Korean Pickled Radish: These tangy pickles add crunch and acidity to balance the dish’s sweetness.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad mixed with vegetables provides a nutritious boost alongside the main dish.
5. Spicy Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in a spicy dressing offer a cool contrast.
6. Egg Fried Rice: This savory fried rice is great for soaking up all those sticky flavors from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Bold flavor imbalance: Adding too much gochujang can overpower the dish. Start with less, then adjust to taste.
• Bold undercooking chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Bold neglecting marinades: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight for best results.
• Bold overcooking sauce: If you cook the sauce too long, it may become too thick or burned. Monitor it closely while simmering.
• Bold skipping ingredient prep: Not preparing ingredients ahead can lead to confusion and mistakes while cooking. Measure and chop everything before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken.

How can I make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken spicier?

To enhance the spice level, add more gochujang or incorporate chili flakes during cooking.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out easily.

What if I don’t have gochujang?

You may substitute with a mix of red chili paste and a little sugar for sweetness, though the flavor may vary slightly.

Can Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the sweetness or spice level according to your tastes. Whether you choose to serve it with rice or vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a delectable dish that seamlessly marries sweet and spicy flavors, making it a must-try for any dinner table. This recipe is not only quick and easy—taking just 30 minutes to prepare—but also versatile enough for any cooking style, whether you prefer air frying or baking. The sticky glaze created from the combination of gochujang and honey will have everyone craving more. Perfect for weeknight meals or impressing guests on special occasions, this chicken dish promises to deliver juicy, tender bites that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 boneless chicken thighs (skin on)
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)
• 3 stalks green onions (white and green parts separated)
• 2 tbsp gochujang paste
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the grated garlic and the white parts of the green onions.
3. Place chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag and coat with the marinade. Allow marinating for at least 15 minutes.
4. For Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook chicken for about 20 minutes until crispy.
5. For Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.
6. Let rest briefly before serving, garnished with green onion tops.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking/Frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 110mg