Welcome to this delicious journey into the world of Korean BBQ! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with mouthwatering goodness.
Introduction
Korean BBQ is a culinary experience loved worldwide, known for its bold, savory flavors paired with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers with a sweet and spicy glaze encapsulate everything that makes Korean food so irresistible. The combination of tender chicken, a tangy and flavorful BBQ sauce, and the slight heat from sriracha create a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
I remember the first time I tried Korean BBQ at a local restaurant; the unique flavors and communal style of eating left a lasting impression on me. This recipe is my attempt to bring those vibrant flavors into your home, with a simplified version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Asian five-spice (optional)
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- Steamed rice or cooked noodles for serving (optional)
For the Korean BBQ Sauce:
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons cold water + 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Note: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether.
How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and garlic. Bring to a boil.
- In a small bowl, stir together cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the boiling sauce.
- Remove from heat and divide the sauce between two bowls. Reserve one bowl for serving later.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Skewer chicken onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Asian five-spice (if using).
- Brush the chicken all over with the Korean BBQ sauce (using the sauce from one bowl—remember to reserve the other bowl for serving).
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grill the skewers over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning periodically and brushing with additional BBQ sauce after each turn.
- For a baking option, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once and brushing with sauce halfway through.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken skewers over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions, and drizzled with the reserved BBQ sauce. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Marinating Time: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before skewering and cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors deeply.
- Skewer Options: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Cooking Tips
Enhancing the flavor and texture of these Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers is easy with a few additional tips:
- Basting the Skewers: Baste the chicken frequently with the BBQ sauce during grilling to build up layers of flavor and ensure the chicken remains moist.
- Using a Grill Pan: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well. Just make sure to heat it up before adding the skewers.
- Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Serve over Steamed Rice: The traditional choice, steamed rice, soaks up the extra sauce perfectly.
- Noodle Option: Alternatively, serve the skewers over a bed of soba or rice noodles tossed with a little sesame oil.
- Kimchi: Add a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean touch. Its tangy and spicy flavors complement the sweetness of the BBQ chicken.
- Pair with a Drink: A cold beer or a glass of chilled soju would make the perfect accompaniment to this dish.
Nutritional Information
Short Nutritional Information for this Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe:
- Calories: 270 kcal per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 11g
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 270 kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 450mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Vitamin A: 4% DV
Vitamin C: 6% DV
Calcium: 3% DV
Iron: 8% DV
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal. The presence of garlic and onions adds antioxidants, while the chicken provides lean protein.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftover Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a microwave, but this may make the chicken slightly less tender.
Leftover Ideas:
- Wraps: Slice the chicken off the skewers and use it in a wrap with lettuce, cucumber, and a drizzle of leftover BBQ sauce.
- Salad: Toss leftover chicken into a salad for a quick and flavorful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier result and are just as flavorful. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Marinate and grill just as you would with the chicken, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make the sauce spicier?
A: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: No grill? No problem! Use your oven to bake the skewers or cook them in a grill pan on the stove.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe, you might also enjoy these recipes:
-
Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Fresh Herbs
-
Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Fresh Herbs
Explore these dishes to expand your repertoire of quick and delicious meals.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful adventure into Korean cuisine! These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy a homemade version of a popular restaurant dish. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do.
Don’t forget to share your experience or any personal twists you add to the recipe. I’d love to hear how you make this dish your own!
Print
Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers with a Sweet and Spicy Glaze
Description
Welcome to this delicious journey into the world of Korean BBQ! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the rich flavors of Korean cuisine with a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with mouthwatering goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Asian five-spice (optional)
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- Steamed rice or cooked noodles for serving (optional)
For the Korean BBQ Sauce:
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons cold water + 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sriracha, and garlic. Bring to a boil.
- In a small bowl, stir together cold water and cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this mixture into the boiling sauce.
- Remove from heat and divide the sauce between two bowls. Reserve one bowl for serving later.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Skewer chicken onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Asian five-spice (if using).
- Brush the chicken all over with the Korean BBQ sauce (using the sauce from one bowl—remember to reserve the other bowl for serving).
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grill the skewers over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning periodically and brushing with additional BBQ sauce after each turn.
- For a baking option, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once and brushing with sauce halfway through.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken skewers over steamed rice or noodles, garnished with green onions, and drizzled with the reserved BBQ sauce. Enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Marinating Time: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before skewering and cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors deeply.
- Skewer Options: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
