Chicken Bulgogi

This Chicken Bulgogi brings a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors, highlighted by Korean-style spices and a rich marinade. The air fryer method delivers a perfectly caramelized crust that locks in the juicy tenderness of the chicken thighs, making it a family favorite for any meal. Perfect for meal prep, this recipe can be quickly reheated and pairs wonderfully with rice, kimchi, or a fresh side salad. Serve as lettuce wraps or with noodles for a full Korean-inspired spread. This dish is versatile and easily adaptable to any cooking method, making it a staple in any home cook’s rotation.

full recipe:

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Marinade:
  • 1/4 Korean pear (or substitute with kiwi for tenderizing)
  • 1 stalk green onion
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp mirin (or substitute with rice vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil (or another neutral oil)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 inch ginger, minced
  • Optional: 1 tbsp gochujang for a spicy kick

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a blender, combine the pear, green onion, soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, avocado oil, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth. For a spicier version, add gochujang.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs and marinade in an airtight container, refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
3. Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 385°F. Place marinated chicken in the basket and cook for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Alternative Cooking Methods:
   • Skillet: Cook on medium-high in a skillet for 7 minutes per side, until a crust forms and chicken reaches 165°F.
   • Grill: Grill on low for 8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinating Time: 1 hour to overnight | Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
Kcal: 295 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Background & Origins of Chicken Bulgogi

Bulgogi is a hallmark of Korean cuisine, originating centuries ago during Korea’s Goguryeo era, where it was known as “maekjeok.” Originally made from beef, it evolved over the years and was often marinated and grilled to create a caramelized crust on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. With Korean BBQ’s popularity, various adaptations have emerged, including Dak Bulgogi, which uses chicken instead of beef for a lighter, leaner option. This chicken bulgogi recipe respects traditional flavors while modernizing the process to fit home cooking—especially with the help of the air fryer, which enhances the dish’s texture and saves time.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Chicken Bulgogi stands out not only for its authentic flavors but also for its adaptability and simplicity. Here’s why it’s a staple in Korean households and perfect for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine:

• Bold and Balanced Flavors: The marinade balances sweetness, savory notes, and mild spiciness (if you add gochujang) that infuse the chicken with deep, complex flavors. Each bite has a delicious blend of savory soy, sweet brown sugar, and aromatic ginger and garlic, complemented by sesame oil’s nutty warmth.
• Healthy and Light: Using chicken thighs makes it a leaner alternative to the traditional beef bulgogi. The air fryer method further reduces the need for oil, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: The air fryer not only saves you cooking time but also minimizes cleanup. This recipe’s straightforward steps—marinating and air frying—make it a go-to option for busy weeknights.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe freezes and reheats exceptionally well, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Marinate a larger batch, freeze it, and cook portions whenever you need a quick, protein-rich meal.

Health Benefits of Chicken Bulgogi

Chicken bulgogi offers a well-rounded nutritional profile:

• Protein-Packed: Chicken thighs are rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Protein also promotes satiety, helping you stay full longer.
• Rich in Micronutrients: With ingredients like ginger, garlic, and green onions, this recipe offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. Ginger and garlic, in particular, are known for their antioxidant properties.
• Low in Carbs: This is a low-carb recipe, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s also easily adaptable to gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
• High in Flavor, Low in Fat: The air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, making this a low-fat option without compromising on flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Bulgogi

For the best results, here are a few helpful tips:

• Marinate Long Enough: Ideally, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour to overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, giving it a rich, bold taste. However, avoid marinating beyond 24 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
• Choose the Right Cut of Meat: Chicken thighs are recommended for their juicy, tender texture. They hold up well in the air fryer and absorb the marinade beautifully. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breast can work, but thighs give a juicier result.
• Air Fry for Texture: Cooking in the air fryer achieves a slightly charred, caramelized exterior without over-drying the meat. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.
• Customize the Heat: For those who love spicy food, gochujang (a Korean chili paste) is an optional addition that adds a pleasant kick. Adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.

Serving Suggestions

One of the great things about Chicken Bulgogi is its versatility in serving. Here are a few popular ways to enjoy it:

• With Steamed Rice and Kimchi: The classic way to enjoy bulgogi is with rice and a side of kimchi for a complete Korean meal. Kimchi adds a crunchy, spicy contrast to the savory chicken.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a light, low-carb meal, serve the chicken bulgogi in lettuce leaves with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
• In Bowls: Make a bulgogi bowl with rice, fresh or pickled vegetables, and a soft-boiled egg on top. It’s a colorful, hearty meal that’s full of nutrients and flavor.
• With Asian-Inspired Side Dishes: Try pairing with Asian coleslaw, garlic-braised kale, or sesame cucumber salad. These sides add freshness and crunch, balancing the bold flavors of the chicken.

Cooking Variations

Chicken Bulgogi is a flexible recipe you can adjust to your taste and available cooking tools. Here’s how you can tweak it:

• Grilling: If you’re a fan of that smoky BBQ flavor, grill the marinated chicken thighs. This method infuses the meat with a charred, authentic taste reminiscent of Korean BBQ.
• Skillet or Wok: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can pan-fry the chicken over medium-high heat. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully to create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
• Baking: Although not as common, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for around 25 minutes. To get a nice crust, finish by broiling it for an additional 2-3 minutes.

A Recipe Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing meals for the week, Chicken Bulgogi fits the bill. Its bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its simplicity and ease make it a practical choice for everyday meals. It’s also a wonderful introduction to Korean cuisine, as it uses familiar ingredients combined in a unique way, without requiring specialized skills or equipment.

Conclusion

Chicken Bulgogi is a flavor-packed dish that brings together the best of Korean BBQ in a streamlined, home-cook-friendly format. The combination of umami, sweetness, and subtle spiciness creates a satisfying dish that doesn’t rely on heavy sauces or excess oil. Instead, the marinade naturally infuses the chicken with complex flavors that shine through with each bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe proves that you don’t need a grill or fancy ingredients to recreate a taste of Korea at home.