Simple Spicy Korean Chicken Delight

A Flavorful Twist on Comfort

Every time we gather for a cozy chicken dinner, we revel in the friendly chatter and warmth that fills the kitchen. As a group of close friends, we cherish the art of everyday cooking and aim to create simple, yet delectable meals that fit seamlessly into the rhythm of busy weeknights. Our recipes are crafted with love, optimizing every step for ease and guaranteeing they’ll be a hit in your home. We’re devoted to making food that feels familiar and inviting, bringing friends and family together around the table effortlessly and deliciously.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Korean
Best Season: All year round

What Makes This Dish Shine

Bold Flavors: The balance of spicy Sriracha and sweet honey creates an enticing glaze that will make your taste buds dance.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this spicy Korean chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Versatile: Serve it up over rice, alongside steamed veggies, or as a wrap for a delightful twist that fits any occasion.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, balancing heat with savory notes and making it a beloved staple in your home.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

500 g chicken breast fillets (cut into ½-inch thick strips)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (peeled and minced; about 2.5 cm piece)
3 cloves garlic (peeled and minced)
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 cups steamed rice (for serving)
200 g tenderstem broccoli (steamed, or regular broccoli florets)
3 tablespoons dry roasted peanuts (chopped, for serving)
1 lime (cut into wedges, for serving)
2 green onions (sliced, for serving)

Ingredient Insights

Chicken Breasts: Tender and quick-cooking, boneless chicken breasts work best. You can swap for thighs if you prefer dark meat.
Sriracha: For a milder flavor, use less sriracha or opt for a milder hot sauce.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing flavor, making it a healthier choice.
Honey: You could use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for a vegan option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, Sriracha, cornstarch, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, minced garlic, and chili powder until completely smooth. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
While the chicken marinates, cook rice according to package directions and steam the broccoli in a steamer basket over boiling water until tender-crisp and bright green, usually about 4-5 minutes. Keep warm and set aside.
In a large cast iron or stainless-steel skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Using tongs, lift the chicken from the marinade (reserve all marinade) and place in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the cooked chicken. The marinade will reach a safe temperature as it simmers. Let it bubble for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens into a shiny, sticky glaze. For an extra thick sauce, mix ½ teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce.
Remove from heat and serve the chicken immediately over steamed rice (about ½ cup per serving). Top it off with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and lime wedges. Serve the steamed broccoli on the side for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Experience

Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be, so try to let it sit overnight if you can.
Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that golden-brown sear—no one likes soggy chicken!
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch-water mixture towards the end of the cooking process.
Veggie Add-Ins: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.

Fun Variations to Try

Vegan Option: Replace chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh and adjust marinating time accordingly to infuse flavor.
Mild Flavor: For those who prefer it less spicy, reduce the Sriracha and use a mild chili powder or omit it entirely.
Regional Twist: Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) for an authentic Korean flavor, or switch up the honey with coconut sugar for a deeper sweetness.
Crispy Chicken: For a crunchy twist, dredge the marinated chicken in some panko breadcrumbs before cooking for added texture.

Delicious Pairings

Pair your spicy Korean chicken with lightly pickled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat. For drinks, consider a light lager or iced herbal tea. For dessert, a scoop of coconut sorbet offers a refreshing end to your meal.

Planning Ahead & Freezing Tips

Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken a whole day in advance to maximize flavor. Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. As for freezing, let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove to maintain its juicy texture.

Beautiful Presentation Ideas

For a cozy dining experience, serve your spicy Korean chicken in rustic bowls, sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh herbs, and include slices of lime for that extra zing. Using colorful plates can make the dish pop visually, making mealtime a feast for the eyes as well.

Little Kitchen Secrets

Chop Garlic: Mincing garlic right before use ensures maximum flavor and aroma.
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger elevates the taste; rinse it under water and peel easily with the edge of a spoon.
Steamed Broccoli: Keep the vibrant green color of your broccoli by quickly steaming and immersing in cold water afterward.

Storing & Reheating Techniques

For individual portions, store chicken and rice separately to maintain the ideal texture when reheating. Use a microwave or stovetop—adding a splash of water during microwaving prevents drying out, while reheating on the stove over low heat keeps everything nice and tender.

Questions People Often Ask

Can I substitute chicken with another protein? Yes! Tofu, tempeh, or shrimp are great alternatives.
Is this dish kid-friendly? Absolutely! Adjust the spice level according to your children’s taste.
What can I do with leftover sauce? You can drizzle it over other stir-fries or save it for dipping veggies!
What if I’m allergic to nuts? Omit the peanuts or substitute them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
How spicy is the Sriracha? It can be adjusted to taste—just start with less and add more as desired.
Can I make this in advance? Yes! The flavors deepen the longer it sits; just reheat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 435
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 44g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

A Warm Reflection

Cooking isn’t just about the food; it’s about the stories we share and the memories we create. Each recipe holds the essence of friendship and love. Whether we’re gathered around the dining table or sharing laughter in the kitchen, food connects us in ways that go beyond taste. Spicy Korean chicken is one of those recipes that brings everyone together, offering warmth and comfort with each bite.

Ending on a Delicious Note

This easy spicy Korean chicken recipe is a stunning way to bring a little vibrancy to your dinner table. Grab your spatula, invite over a few friends or family, and whip up this delightful dish that is sure to be loved by all. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for a cozy night in or a lively gathering—happy cooking!