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Flavorful Baked Gochujang Chicken Thighs Recipe with Honey Sesame Glaze

baked gochujang chicken thighs - featured image

This baked gochujang chicken thigh recipe features a sticky, caramelized honey sesame glaze that balances sweet and spicy flavors, delivering juicy, crispy chicken thighs perfect for an easy and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
  • 2 scallions, sliced thinly (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let rest for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly with the marinade. Optionally, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available. Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up without touching.
  6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. At the 15-minute mark, baste the chicken with extra marinade or spoon glaze over the tops.
  7. Check for doneness when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is browned and sticky. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
  8. Remove from oven and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for crispy skin. Use just enough marinade to coat and baste to avoid steaming. Bone-in, skin-on thighs yield juicier, crispier results. High heat baking caramelizes glaze. Let chicken rest before serving. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Broil briefly for extra crispiness but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: gochujang chicken, baked chicken thighs, honey sesame glaze, Korean chicken recipe, spicy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal