Name: Korean BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste); 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Delicious Korean BBQ Chicken served on a grill with vibrant vegetables.

You’ll love this Korean BBQ Chicken recipe!

There’s something about the smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors of Korean BBQ chicken that makes it utterly irresistible.

This dish, featuring juicy chicken thighs or drumsticks marinated in a savory mixture, is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just a cozy night in.

The combination of garlic, ginger, and gochujang gives it a unique depth that transports you straight to a bustling Korean grill.

Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite for any weeknight meal!

Korean BBQ Chicken recipe and chicken placed in pan

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 280
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 19g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg

Why I Love This Korean BBQ Chicken

This Korean BBQ chicken recipe is close to my heart because it’s a delicious reminder of family cookouts and laughter-filled evenings. The sweet and spicy marinade is a breeze to whip up, making it easy to fit into a busy lifestyle.

I love how the grill gives the chicken a lovely char, enhancing the flavor even more. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends or to savor all by yourself, and each bite is packed with mouthwatering goodness.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy any night of the week!

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon sesame oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, minced

1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)

2 green onions, chopped

Sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang. Stir until well combined to create a flavorful marinade that’s both sweet and spicy.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, although overnight will give a richer flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook, which will help achieve that perfect char.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Brush with Marinade

During the last few minutes of grilling, brush some leftover marinade on the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy the delightful aromas while you dig in!

Tips & Variations

Make it Spicy: If you like heat, add more gochujang or some red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a bright contrast.
Dietary Swaps: For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Cook in the Oven: If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes.

Delicious Variations

Korean BBQ Beef: Swap chicken for thinly sliced beef marinated the same way for a delicious twist.
Korean Style Tofu: For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu marinated and grilled until crispy.
Spicy Korean Pork Chops: Use pork chops with the same marinade for a savory alternative.
Korean Chili Shrimp: Toss shrimp into the marinade and quickly grill for a seafood delight.

Serving Suggestions for Korean BBQ Chicken

This dish is best served hot off the grill, garnished with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Perfect for BBQ parties in the summer, it goes beautifully with cold iced tea or a classic Korean soju.

Pair it with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables to elevate the meal to new heights!

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the marinated chicken before cooking—just make sure to thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven or on the grill to retain its juiciness.

Helpful Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks? Yes, but breasts may cook faster. Adjust grilling time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal for the best flavor.
What can I serve with Korean BBQ chicken? It pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or a simple salad.
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, marinate the chicken the night before for meal prep.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).