Skillet Chicken Bulgogi: A Flavor-Packed Korean Delight in One Pan

Admin

1 Feb, 2025

Korean cuisine is beloved for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. One of its most iconic dishes is bulgogi, traditionally made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar before being grilled or stir-fried. But have you ever tried chicken bulgogi? This variation is just as delicious and incredibly easy to make, especially in a skillet!

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal, Skillet Chicken Bulgogi is the perfect solution. It delivers all the umami goodness of classic bulgogi while using readily available chicken for a more budget-friendly and accessible meal. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Easy & Quick – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish!
Minimal Cleanup – Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Full of Flavor – A mouthwatering marinade with a balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Cook in advance and store for quick lunches or dinners.
Customizable – Works well with different cuts of chicken, extra veggies, or even tofu!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Marinade:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, thinly sliced
4 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tenderness)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust for spice level)
1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes, optional for extra heat)
2 tbsp grated pear or apple (adds sweetness and tenderizes the meat)
1 tbsp mirin (optional, adds depth of flavor)
½ tsp black pepper

For Cooking & Serving:

1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Steamed white rice or lettuce wraps

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, gochugaru, grated pear (or apple), mirin, and black pepper.
Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the thinly sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Cover and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken in a Skillet

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and caramelized.
If there’s excess marinade in the pan, let it reduce until it forms a slightly sticky glaze.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Serve over steamed white rice or wrap in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Bulgogi

Use Chicken Thighs: They stay juicier than chicken breasts and absorb the marinade better.
Marinate Overnight: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor!
Slice Thinly: Thin slices cook faster and absorb the sauce more effectively.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cooking in batches ensures proper caramelization.
Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Recipe with Beef or Pork?

Yes! Simply swap the chicken for thinly sliced beef (ribeye or sirloin) or pork (pork shoulder or belly). The marinade works beautifully with all proteins.

2. Is Gochujang Necessary? Can I Make It Less Spicy?

Gochujang adds depth and slight heat, but if you prefer a milder version, use less or omit it. You can substitute it with a mix of ketchup and a dash of soy sauce for a milder alternative.

3. Can I Cook Chicken Bulgogi on the Grill?

Absolutely! Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through.

4. What Side Dishes Pair Well with Chicken Bulgogi?

Here are some great side dishes to complete your meal:

Kimchi – Fermented spicy cabbage for a tangy contrast.
Pickled Radish – Sweet and crunchy pickled radish (danmuji).
Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) – Refreshing and slightly spicy.
Steamed Rice – A classic pairing that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Miso Soup – Light and savory to complement the bold bulgogi taste.

5. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken bulgogi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

6. Can I Freeze Chicken Bulgogi?

Yes! Freeze marinated raw chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed.

7. What Can I Use Instead of Pear or Apple in the Marinade?

If you don’t have a pear or apple, you can use 1-2 teaspoons of sugar or honey to add sweetness. Alternatively, try pineapple juice for an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Skillet Chicken Bulgogi is the ultimate quick and delicious Korean-inspired meal that anyone can make at home. The balance of savory soy sauce, sweet caramelized marinade, and spicy gochujang creates a dish that’s unforgettable. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with rice, in lettuce wraps, or even inside a taco for a fun fusion twist!

So why not skip takeout tonight and whip up this easy and flavorful Skillet Chicken Bulgogi? Your taste buds (and family) will thank you!