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Flavorful Korean Gochujang Grilled Chicken Thighs

Korean Gochujang Grilled Chicken Thighs - featured image

Juicy and tender Korean-style grilled chicken thighs marinated in a spicy, sweet, and smoky gochujang sauce, perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until smooth and vibrant red.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, massaging occasionally to redistribute marinade.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 204°C). Clean and oil grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place skin-side down on the grill and cook for 7-8 minutes per side, flipping once, until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Move to indirect heat if flare-ups occur.
  5. Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  6. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or cucumber salad.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for best flavor. Use a sharp knife to score the skin lightly for extra crispiness. Manage grill heat to avoid burning the marinade. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. If no grill is available, use a grill pan or oven broiler.

Nutrition

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