Introduction
If you love bold, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, you’re going to adore this Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken recipe. It’s a perfect mix of sweet honey and spicy Korean gochujang sauce that creates a sticky, finger-licking coating on tender chicken. This dish is simple to make, packed with flavor, and can quickly become a family favorite.
The best part? You only need a few ingredients, and most of them are probably already in your kitchen. Plus, this recipe is flexible—you can adjust the spice and sweetness according to your taste. So, let’s get started and make some magic in the kitchen!
Ingredients – Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken:
- 500g (1 lb) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra thickness)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Follow these simple steps to make your dish perfectly sticky, sweet, and spicy:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until smooth. This is your delicious sticky sauce that will coat the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and almost cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat every piece evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3–5 minutes until it thickens and becomes sticky. If you want it extra glossy and thick, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and add to the pan. Stir well until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is perfectly coated and sticky, transfer it to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a fresh and crunchy finish.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Serve your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to grab a napkin because it’s delightfully sticky and delicious!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works perfectly, but it may cook slightly faster and be less juicy than thighs.
2. How spicy is gochujang?
Gochujang is mildly spicy with a sweet and savory flavor. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount by half.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Cooked chicken is best eaten fresh but can be stored for 1–2 days.
4. Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the chicken in a baking dish, pour the sauce over, and bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. What can I serve with Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken?
It goes great with steamed rice, jasmine rice, noodles, or even in wraps. Add some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and irresistible dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Its perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and stickiness will make it a hit with family and friends.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to follow and very forgiving. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice level, sweetness, or even the type of chicken. Next time you want a quick, tasty, and comforting meal, reach for this recipe. It’s sticky, sweet, spicy, and absolutely unforgettable.
