Korean Spicy Chicken Stir: 1 Amazing Dish

Name: Korean Spicy Chicken Stir: 1 Amazing Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 medium onion, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish); Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

by basmer

21 de October de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Korean Spicy Chicken Stir has become my absolute go-to for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal. I remember my first attempt at making a spicy Korean chicken recipe; I was intimidated by the gochujang, but the resulting dish was a revelation! The tender chicken, the crisp-tender vegetables, all coated in that irresistible sweet, spicy, and savory sauce – it’s a flavor explosion that fills my kitchen with the most amazing aroma. It’s so much better than takeout and surprisingly easy to whip up. You’ll love how quickly this comes together! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Korean Spicy Chicken Stir

This recipe isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience! Get ready to impress yourself and your taste buds with this amazing dish.

Incredibly Flavorful: The gochujang-based sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy that’s utterly addictive.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this spicy Korean chicken recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Easily swap out vegetables or protein to suit your preferences.
Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal you can feel good about.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Achieve that authentic Korean flavor without leaving your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will love the tender chicken and delicious sauce.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients for Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Here’s what you’ll need to create this vibrant dish. Having everything prepped makes this Korean chicken stir fry recipe a breeze!

500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – or use sesame oil for an extra nutty flavor
1 red bell pepper, sliced – for sweetness and vibrant color
1 medium onion, sliced – adds a savory base
1 cup broccoli florets – for a healthy crunch and green goodness
2-3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that pungent kick
1 tablespoon grated ginger – brings a warming, spicy note
2 tablespoons soy sauce – the salty backbone of the sauce
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) – this is the star for that authentic spicy Korean chicken flavor and deep red color
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar – to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – adds a subtle tang to brighten the flavors
1 tablespoon sesame oil – for finishing, adding a rich, toasted aroma
1 tablespoon water – to help thin the sauce to the perfect consistency
1 teaspoon sesame seeds – for a nice nutty crunch as a garnish
Fresh cilantro or green onions – for a burst of freshness and color to finish

How to Make Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Get ready to create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen! This easy Korean spicy chicken stir fry recipe comes together in a flash.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients. First things first, let’s get organized. Slice your chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces – this ensures it cooks evenly. Chop your vegetables like the red bell pepper and onion. Mince your garlic and grate your ginger; these aromatics are key to that amazing flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry these for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp – you want them to have a slight bite, not be mushy. Now, add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan. Stir constantly for about one minute until they become wonderfully fragrant.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce. While your vegetables are doing their thing, let’s whip up that incredible sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang (this is where the magic happens for that authentic spicy Korean chicken flavor!), honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the tablespoon of water to help thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer. Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce all over everything. Toss gently to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly. Let the sauce simmer and bubble for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and cling to all the ingredients. The aroma at this stage is incredible!
Step 6: Serve It Up! Remove the pan from the heat. Serve your delicious Korean spicy chicken stir fry immediately over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or quinoa. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and some fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. Follow these tips for a truly stellar Korean spicy chicken stir fry!

High Heat is Your Friend: Don’t be afraid to crank up the heat when stir-frying. This ensures your vegetables stay crisp-tender and the chicken gets a nice sear, preventing a soggy dish.
Prep Everything First: Stir-frying happens fast! Have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and ready to go before you even turn on the stove. This is crucial for this Korean chicken stir fry recipe.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe, cook the chicken and vegetables in batches. Overcrowding steams the food instead of searing it, leading to less flavor and texture.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding it to the pan. Need more spice? Add a pinch more gochujang. Too spicy? A little more honey or sugar will help.

What’s the secret to perfect Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry?

The secret lies in the balance of the gochujang sauce and high-heat cooking. Ensuring your gochujang is fresh and of good quality makes a huge difference in the authentic spicy Korean chicken flavor. For more information on Korean ingredients, you can check out this resource on gochujang.

Can I make Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry ahead of time?

You can prep all the ingredients and make the sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Cook the stir fry just before serving for the best texture. For other make-ahead meal ideas, see these cold lunch ideas.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, which makes it tough. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Finally, ensure your gochujang is readily available, as it’s key to the dish’s signature flavor. Learning how to brine chicken can also help ensure tenderness in other chicken dishes.

Best Ways to Serve Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

This vibrant Korean chicken stir fry is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serving it hot right off the pan is key to enjoying that perfect crisp-tender texture.

Steamed Rice: The classic pairing! Fluffy white rice or brown rice is perfect for soaking up that delicious, spicy sauce. Try short-grain sushi rice for an authentic touch.
Quinoa: For a healthier twist, serve over cooked quinoa. It offers a nutty flavor and extra protein that complements the stir fry wonderfully.
Noodles: Toss the stir fry with cooked udon noodles or even spaghetti for a heartier meal. The chewy noodles are a fantastic vehicle for the gochujang sauce.

No matter how you serve it, this spicy Korean chicken recipe makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal! For more chicken recipes, check out these easy meat recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

This recipe makes about 4 servings, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving of this delicious Korean spicy chicken stir fry. Remember, these are estimates and can vary slightly based on your exact ingredients.

Calories: 300
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Korean spicy chicken recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Leftovers of this delicious Korean spicy chicken stir fry are fantastic, but proper storage is key to keeping them tasting their best. Once your stir fry has cooled down a bit, transfer it into airtight containers. I usually portion mine out for easy grab-and-go lunches. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this Korean chicken stir fry also freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s completely cooled, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, I like to gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave them, covering the container loosely to prevent splattering. Frozen portions should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using either the stovetop or microwave method. This ensures your easy Korean spicy chicken stir fry is just as delightful the second time around!

Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Can I make Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry with different proteins?

Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile. You can easily substitute the chicken with firm tofu, shrimp, or even thinly sliced beef for a different take on this spicy Korean chicken recipe. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is cooked through.

What can I use if I don’t have gochujang for this Korean chicken stir fry?

Gochujang is pretty key for that authentic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can try a mix of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), a touch of tomato paste for color and body, and a bit of honey or sugar to mimic the sweetness. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!

How spicy is this Korean spicy chicken stir fry recipe?

The spice level can vary depending on the brand of gochujang you use. Generally, this recipe offers a medium heat. If you prefer it milder, start with less gochujang and add more to taste. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of gochugaru or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

Can I add more vegetables to this Korean chicken and vegetable stir fry?

Definitely! Feel free to load up on your favorite veggies. Carrots, snap peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn all work wonderfully in this dish. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Variations of Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry You Can Try

This Korean spicy chicken stir fry is fantastic as is, but it’s also a wonderful base for all sorts of delicious twists! Don’t be afraid to experiment with these ideas to create your own signature dish.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu well to remove excess water, then cube and pan-fry until golden before adding to the stir fry. For a vegan version, ensure your gochujang is vegan-friendly and use maple syrup or agave instead of honey. This makes for a great plant-based Korean chicken recipe alternative.
Spicy Korean Chicken Noodle Stir Fry: Forget the rice! Cook your favorite noodles (udon, ramen, or even spaghetti) separately. Once the chicken and vegetables are coated in the sauce, toss everything together with the cooked noodles for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Sheet Pan Korean Spicy Chicken: For minimal cleanup, try this method. Toss chicken pieces and your chosen vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, onions) with a bit of oil and the stir-fry sauce on a large baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Extra Veggie Power: Amp up the health factor by adding extra vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or even shredded carrots. They add great texture and extra nutrients to your spicy Korean chicken stir fry.