Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry has been my go-to for a quick and incredibly satisfying meal whenever I crave something with a kick. I remember the first time I tried a truly authentic Korean spicy chicken stir fry; the aroma of garlic and ginger hit me first, followed by the vibrant, glossy sauce clinging to tender pieces of chicken. It was a revelation! Now, making this easy Korean spicy chicken stir fry at home brings that same exciting flavor right to my kitchen table. The combination of tender chicken, crisp-tender vegetables, and that perfectly balanced sweet and spicy sauce is simply irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
This Korean spicy chicken stir fry is a true weeknight wonder, and I know you’ll fall in love with it too. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in a flash!
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, and aromatics creates a complex, mouthwatering taste.
- Super Quick: You can have this spicy Korean chicken stir fry on the table in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: Easily swap out vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
- Satisfyingly Tender: The chicken stays moist and tender, coated in a luscious, spicy sauce.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a dish you can feel good about.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the gochujang to suit your heat preference for the perfect Korean chicken stir fry sauce.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors make it as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients for Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
Gathering your ingredients is the first step towards making this amazing Korean spicy chicken stir fry. I love how simple it is to pull together everything you need for this quick Korean chicken stir fry recipe.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into bite-sized pieces – I find slicing it thinly before cooking helps it cook faster and absorb the sauce better.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – a neutral oil is best to let the other flavors shine.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced – any color works, but red or yellow adds a nice sweetness and visual appeal.
- 1 onion, sliced – a yellow or white onion provides a classic savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is a must for that pungent aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – ginger adds a zesty warmth that complements the spice perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) – this is the heart of our Korean chicken stir fry sauce, providing heat and depth.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for that essential umami and saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – adds a nutty, toasty finish that’s signatures to Korean cooking.
- 1 tablespoon honey – a touch of sweetness balances the heat and helps the sauce thicken.
- Sesame seeds for garnish – for a little crunch and visual flair.
- Green onions for garnish – adds a fresh, oniony bite at the end.
Korean Chicken Stir Fry Sauce Ingredients
The magic happens in this simple sauce! It’s a blend of 3 tablespoons gochujang, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon honey. This combination creates the perfect sweet, savory, and spicy Korean chicken stir fry sauce.
How to Make Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
Let’s dive into making this incredible Korean spicy chicken stir fry! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. The key to a great stir fry is having everything prepped and ready to go before you even turn on the stove, because things move fast!
- Step 1: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot, shimmering slightly, before you add anything.
- Step 2: Add the sliced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two to get a nice sear. Then, stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s beautifully browned and cooked all the way through.
- Step 3: Toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them with the chicken for about another minute until they become wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Step 4: Now, add your sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet. Stir-fry these vegetables for 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, still having a slight bite and vibrant color – not mushy.
- Step 5: While the veggies are cooking, quickly whisk together the ingredients for your Korean chicken stir fry sauce in a small bowl: 3 tablespoons gochujang, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon honey. This quick mix ensures your sauce is ready to go.
- Step 6: Pour this glorious sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir everything together really well, making sure every piece is coated in that glossy, spicy goodness.
- Step 7: Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. You’ll see the sauce thicken slightly, clinging beautifully to the chicken and vegetables, creating that signature Korean stir fried chicken with chili look.
- Step 8: Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions. Serve your amazing Korean spicy chicken stir fry immediately and enjoy!
Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry Cooking Steps
The technique for this Korean spicy chicken stir fry is all about high heat and quick cooking. First, get your skillet screaming hot with the oil. Sear the chicken until it’s golden brown. Then, quickly stir-fry the aromatics and vegetables to maintain their crispness. Combining the sauce ingredients separately before adding them ensures a smooth, even coating. Finish by letting the sauce thicken slightly, coating every piece of chicken and vegetable in that irresistible spicy glaze. This method ensures each bite is packed with flavor, making it a truly authentic Korean spicy chicken stir fry experience. For more information on stir-frying techniques, you can check out resources on proper stir-frying.
Pro Tips for the Best Korean Chicken Stir Fry
Want to elevate your Korean spicy chicken stir fry game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference in achieving that perfect restaurant-quality flavor and texture right in your own kitchen. These tips will help make your easy Korean spicy chicken stir fry truly shine!
- Prep Everything First: Stir-frying is fast! Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the heat. This includes mixing your Korean chicken stir fry sauce.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to steamed, not seared, chicken, which is the opposite of what we want for this dish.
- High Heat is Key: Use medium-high to high heat for stir-frying. This ensures quick cooking, keeps vegetables crisp-tender, and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully onto the chicken.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 15-30 minutes in a little soy sauce and garlic before stir-frying.
What’s the secret to perfect Korean spicy chicken stir fry?
The real secret is high heat and quick cooking, combined with a well-balanced sauce. Getting a good sear on the chicken and keeping the vegetables crisp-tender are crucial for the best texture in your Korean chicken stir fry.
Can I make Korean spicy chicken stir fry ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients and mix the sauce components ahead of time. However, I recommend stir-frying everything just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture. Leftovers are still delicious, though!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean chicken stir fry?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which leads to soggy chicken. Also, don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain crisp-tender. Ensure your sauce ingredients are mixed before you start stir-frying to avoid burning aromatics while you measure.
Best Ways to Serve Korean Chicken Stir Fry
This versatile Korean spicy chicken stir fry is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. For a classic and satisfying meal, I always recommend serving it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice perfectly soaks up all that delicious, spicy sauce, making every bite a delight. If you’re looking for a heartier option or want to try something different, consider serving it alongside some tender noodles. Many people love this as a “spicy chicken noodles Korean style” dish, and it works beautifully! For other delicious dinner ideas, check out our dinner recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
This Korean spicy chicken stir fry is not only packed with flavor but also offers a good nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this delicious Korean chicken stir fry:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Korean spicy chicken stir fry. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult a registered dietitian.
How to Store and Reheat Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
Leftovers of this amazing Korean spicy chicken stir fry are a gift that keeps on giving! Once your delicious Korean chicken stir fry has cooled down completely, transfer it into airtight containers. I find that glass containers work best for storing and reheating. You can safely keep your Korean spicy chicken stir fry in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this flavorful dish for longer, you’re in luck! It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. For reheating, I recommend either gently warming it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, or microwaving it in short intervals until heated through. This ensures your Korean chicken stir fry is just as tasty the second time around.
Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry
What is Korean spicy chicken stir fry?
Korean spicy chicken stir fry is a vibrant dish featuring marinated chicken and crisp-tender vegetables coated in a savory, sweet, and spicy sauce, typically made with gochujang. Its appeal lies in its bold flavors and quick preparation, making it a popular choice for a flavorful meal.
Why is Korean spicy chicken stir fry popular?
This dish is incredibly popular because it hits all the right notes: amazing flavor, customizable spice, and speed. It’s a fantastic example of how a quick Korean chicken stir fry recipe can deliver complex tastes with minimal effort, perfect for busy individuals and families seeking delicious, home-cooked meals.
Variations of Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry You Can Try
One of the best things about this Korean spicy chicken stir fry is how adaptable it is! I love experimenting with different ingredients and methods to keep things exciting. Whether you have dietary needs or are just looking for a new flavor profile, there’s a variation of this quick Korean chicken stir fry recipe for you.
Korean Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry Variations
Don’t limit yourself to just bell peppers and onions! For an even more vibrant Korean chicken and vegetable stir fry, try adding broccoli florets, snap peas, sliced carrots, mushrooms, or even some baby corn. These additions bring extra color, texture, and nutrients to your dish. If you’re looking for more vegetable-focused recipes, consider our vegetable recipes.
Spicy Chicken Noodles Korean Style Variations
For a complete meal that’s incredibly satisfying, transform this stir fry into a spicy chicken noodles Korean style dish. Simply cook your favorite noodles (like udon, ramen, or even spaghetti) according to package directions and toss them directly into the skillet with the sauce-coated chicken and vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors in a different format! For noodle inspiration, check out these pasta and noodle recipes.
Flavorful Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry in 30 Mins
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and a spicy sauce for a delicious meal. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper and onion, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg