The sizzle of chicken on the grill fills the air as the sun sets, and suddenly, I’m transported to vibrant street markets in Seoul, where vendors stir up a medley of enticing aromas. My Spicy Gochujang Korean Chicken Skewers capture that very essence, delivering a delightful harmony of spicy, sweet, and smoky flavors. With quick prep and the ability to marinate overnight, this dish is your ticket to impressing friends at summer barbecues or enjoying a wholesome weeknight dinner. Using tender chicken thighs as the centerpiece and a gochujang marinade that packs a flavorful punch, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Curious how to make this Korean delicacy that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Korean Chicken Skewers Irresistible?
Unique Flavor Fusion: The blend of sweet, spicy, and savory from gochujang creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Quick Preparation: With simple techniques and minimal ingredients, you’ll have these skewers ready to marinate in minutes.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they evoke the bustling energy of Korea’s street food scene, making them a hit at barbecues or family dinners.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor, or switch to firm tofu for a delightful vegetarian option!
Meal Companion: Serve alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or steamed rice for a complete, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table!
Korean Chicken Skewer Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for crafting these delicious Korean Chicken Skewers!
For the Marinade
- Chicken Thighs – Tender and juicy, boneless and skinless is best for easy skewering.
- Fresh Ginger – Adds a fragrant, zesty kick; ground ginger can substitute in a smaller amount (1 tsp).
- Garlic – Elevates the flavor depth; fresh garlic is preferred, though 1 tsp of garlic powder works as a substitute.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides umami without overwhelming saltiness; regular soy sauce can be used but may increase sodium levels.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the spicy gochujang; you can switch to granulated white sugar if needed.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses a rich, nutty flavor; avoid using olive oil for the best taste.
- Rice Vinegar – Brightens overall taste; feel free to use white wine vinegar as an alternative.
- Gochujang – This spicy Korean chili paste enhances flavor with heat; if unavailable, a mix of tomato paste and sriracha (1:½ tsp) can serve as a substitute.
For the Skewers
- Skewers – Essential for grilling, use wooden skewers (soak in water beforehand) or metal ones.
For Garnishing
- Chopped Green Onions – An optional garnishing touch to add freshness and color; sprinkle generously before serving.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Cut Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking and optimal marinating. Use a sharp knife on a clean cutting board for safety and ease. Once cut, place the chicken cubes in a large mixing bowl, ready for marination.
Step 2: Make Marinade
In a separate bowl, combine fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended; the mixture should be smooth and fragrant. This spicy gochujang marinade will infuse the chicken skewers with incredible flavor.
Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Pour half of the prepared marinade over the chicken cubes in the mixing bowl. Toss everything gently to coat each piece thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to enhance the taste further. Reserve the other half of the marinade for basting.
Step 4: Prepare Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F. This ensures the Korean chicken skewers cook evenly while achieving those desirable grill marks. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, using a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs for safety.
Step 5: Skewer Chicken
Once marinated, retrieve the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 6: Grill Chicken
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes for even cooking. Keep an eye on the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and develop a nice char on the outside. During the last few minutes, baste with the reserved marinade to add extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the Korean chicken skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few moments before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Pair these delicious skewers with your favorite sides, like steamed rice or a refreshing cucumber salad, for a satisfying meal.
What to Serve with Spicy Gochujang Korean Chicken Skewers
Whether it’s a sunny barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, these skewers invite the perfect accompaniments for a complete feast that tantalizes the senses.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The soft, fragrant grains balance the bold flavors of the skewers, creating a comfort-filled bite that is simply satisfying.
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Crunchy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing combination of crisp cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, this salad cleanses your palate between bites and adds a delightful crunch.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet, smoky notes of corn enhance the flavor profile, and charred kernels bring a pop of color and summer vibes to your plate.
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Garlic Chili Noodles: Tossed in a savory sauce, these noodles offer a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken skewers. A hearty side dish that everyone will gobble up!
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Szechuan-style Green Beans: This spicy and vibrant vegetable dish adds a burst of color and a crunch, complementing the fiery marinade of the skewers, creating a nice balance of flavors.
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Chilled Sake or Light Beer: For drinks, serve a chilled sake or a light beer to refresh while complementing the meal’s flavors. The crispness pairs wonderfully!
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy dish provides a sweet contrast to the spicy skewers, bringing a delightful finish to your meal that no one can resist.
The combinations work together, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that elevate your dining experience!
Expert Tips for Korean Chicken Skewers
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Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight is crucial for enhancing flavor. Skimping on time may lead to bland skewers.
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Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium heat for an even cook. A hot grill creates those beautiful char marks and seals in moisture.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F. Undercooking chicken can lead to food safety risks.
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Basting Technique: Reserve half of the marinade for basting during grilling to intensify flavors. Don’t use the marinade that touched raw chicken for basting to avoid contamination.
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Vegetable Pairing: Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini on skewers. They not only add nutrition but also enhance the overall flavor and texture of your Korean chicken skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Gochujang Korean Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy weeknights, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just cut the thighs into 1.5-inch cubes and toss them with half of the marinade before refrigerating. The remaining marinade can be stored separately in the fridge for basting later. Additionally, if you’re planning a barbecue, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead (up to 3 hours before grilling) and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to grill, simply retrieve them, baste with the reserved marinade, and cook. This prep method ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and that your skewers are just as delicious as if they were made fresh!
Korean Chicken Skewers Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize these Korean chicken skewers to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms on skewers for extra flavor and nutrition; simply slice and alternate with the chicken.
- Tofu Option: Swap chicken thighs for firm, cubed tofu for a delightful vegetarian version; ensure it’s pressed to remove excess moisture before marinating.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative that still maintains rich flavors.
- Sweetener Swap: If you prefer, substitute brown sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetness while marinating.
- Extra Heat: Want a spicier kick? Mix in some chili flakes or sriracha into the marinade alongside the gochujang to elevate the heat level.
- Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice to the marinade for a refreshing tang that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving to enhance the flavor profile, giving it an aromatic lift.
- Serving Sides: Pair with a light side like a refreshing cucumber salad or some steamed rice to balance the dish perfectly.
For even more inspiration, consider serving these alongside my Healthy Sticky Chicken or try out my delectable Spicy Chipotle Chicken for a meal to remember!
How to Store and Freeze Korean Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ensures the chicken stays juicy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will help restore the juicy texture of the Korean chicken skewers.
Thawing: To defrost, transfer the frozen skewers to the fridge overnight. This method keeps them safe and tasty for future grilling!
Korean Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken thighs for skewers?
Absolutely! For juicy and flavorful Korean chicken skewers, boneless and skinless chicken thighs are your best friends. Opt for chicken with a vibrant pink color and avoid any with dark spots or an unusual odor. This will ensure your skewers are tender and succulent!
What’s the best way to store leftover skewers?
You can store your Korean chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often do this to keep the flavors intact and enjoy them later. Just make sure the skewers are cooled to room temperature before sealing them to avoid condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze the chicken skewers for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked skewers! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
How do I ensure my skewers don’t burn on the grill?
Great question! Start by preheating your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. I recommend turning the skewers every 3-4 minutes to cook them evenly. Keeping an eye on them, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F will prevent burning while ensuring perfect doneness.
Are there any dietary considerations for Korean chicken skewers?
Definitely! If you’re accommodating allergies, ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, and check that you’re using fresh ingredients without cross-contamination. For pets, it’s best to avoid giving them chicken that has been marinated in gochujang or soy sauce due to the seasonings. If you’re cooking for vegetarians, feel free to substitute chicken with firm tofu or additional veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a delightful option!
Can I use other ingredients if I can’t find gochujang?
Absolutely! If gochujang isn’t available, you can mix tomato paste with sriracha as a substitute (1 tablespoon of tomato paste to ½ teaspoon of sriracha). While it won’t be an exact match, this blend adds a nice kick to your marinade, keeping the dish flavorful and worth savoring.
Savor Delicious Korean Chicken Skewers Made Easy at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes.
- In a separate bowl, combine fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Whisk until well blended.
- Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F) and oil the grill grates.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- Grill the skewers for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill, let rest, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
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