When it comes to comfort food that’s packed with flavor, this rice recipe with Korean chicken is unbeatable. It’s not just a meal it’s a journey into the rich, savory world of Korean cuisine, paired with perfectly cooked rice that complements every bite. Let’s dive in!
What Makes Korean Chicken Special?
Korean chicken is famous for its crispy texture and bold flavors, thanks to a marinade of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and gochujang (a spicy-sweet chili paste). Whether fried, grilled, or baked, it delivers an addictive combination of sweet, spicy, and savory that pairs beautifully with rice.
A Blend of Cultures
Korean chicken isn’t just food; it’s a cultural experience. Rooted in traditional Korean flavors and techniques, it has become a global favorite, especially when served with steaming hot rice.
Preparation Tips
Here are some simple tips to ensure your rice recipe with Korean chicken turns out perfectly:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh chicken and high-quality spices like gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil make all the difference. Check for freshness to get the best flavors.
2. Rinse and Soak the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. Soaking the rice for 20–30 minutes ensures it cooks evenly and has a fluffy texture.
3. Marinate for Flavor
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is key for that bold, authentic Korean flavor.
4. Organize Your Ingredients
Gather everything you need ingredients and tools before starting. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
5. Don’t Skip the Coating
The crispy crust on the chicken comes from coating it in flour and cornstarch. It’s a quick step that makes the chicken extra delicious.
6. Cook with Patience
Let the rice cook undisturbed and heat the oil properly for frying. This ensures the rice is fluffy, and the chicken is crispy without being greasy.
By following these simple tips, your rice recipe with Korean chicken will be both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering meal!
Preparing the Chicken
Step 1: Add Chicken
Take 700 grams of boneless chicken, cut into cubes, and place it in a large mixing bowl. Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces ensures quicker cooking and even marination.
Step 2: Add Sesame Oil
Pour 2 teaspoons of sesame oil over the chicken. Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor and helps tenderize the meat, giving it a rich and aromatic base.
Step 3: Add Salt
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt evenly on the chicken. This enhances the chicken’s natural flavors and helps other ingredients stick better during marination.
Step 4: Add Crushed Black Pepper
Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed black peppercorns for a subtle spicy kick and a warm, earthy flavor. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Ginger
Add 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger (adrak) to the chicken. Ginger enhances the flavor with its mild spice and fresh aroma, giving the chicken a distinct Korean taste.
Step 6: Mix It Well
Using your hands or a spoon, mix the chicken and spices thoroughly. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with ginger, salt, sesame oil, and pepper for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Add Corn Flour
Add 1/2 cup of corn flour to the chicken. This step helps create a light coating around the chicken pieces, which will turn crispy during frying.
Step 8: Mix It Again
Mix the chicken and corn flour well. Make sure the flour evenly coats all the chicken pieces. This ensures a crispy texture when cooked.
Step 9: Heat the Oil
Pour 3/4 cup of oil into a frying pan or wok and heat it over medium flame. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a crispy texture.
Step 10: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry each side for 2–3 minutes over medium flame until the pieces turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
Now that your chicken is perfectly fried, it’s time to move on to making the sauce! This step adds the bold and flavorful Korean twist to the dish.
Preparing the Sauce
Step 1: Add Honey
Pour 1/4 cup of honey into a bowl. This adds a natural sweetness to balance the spice and saltiness of the sauce.
Step 2: Add Soy Sauce
Next, add 1/4 cup of soy sauce to the bowl. Soy sauce provides a rich, savory flavor and is essential for the Korean-inspired taste.
Step 3: Add Vinegar
Pour in 2 tablespoons of vinegar (sirka). The vinegar adds a tangy kick, enhancing the overall balance of flavors in the sauce.
Step 4: Add Red Chili Flakes
Finally, add 3 tablespoons of red chili flakes (kuti lal mirch). This brings the heat and gives the sauce its signature spicy flavor, characteristic of Korean dishes.
Step 5: Add Salt
Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt (or adjust to taste) into the sauce mixture. Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the honey and the tanginess of the vinegar.
Step 6: Add Sesame Oil
Pour in 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (tilon ka tail). This adds a rich, nutty aroma and authentic Korean flavor to the sauce.
Step 7: Add Water
Add 3 tablespoons of water to the bowl. This helps thin out the sauce slightly, making it easier to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 8: Mix It Well
Using a whisk or spoon, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps, and the flavors are evenly distributed.
Mixing Sauce and Chicken
Step 1: Heat Oil
Add 1 tablespoon of oil to a pan and heat it over medium flame. This is the base for sautéing the aromatics.
Step 2: Add Ginger
Add 1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger (adrak) to the hot oil. Ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor, essential for a flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, add 1/2 tablespoon of grated garlic (lehsan) to the pan. Garlic enhances the aroma and gives the dish a rich, savory depth.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Cook the ginger and garlic for about a minute, stirring continuously. This ensures the flavors release without burning the aromatics.
Step 5: Add the Prepared Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the cooked ginger and garlic. The sauce contains a perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Cook Until the Sauce Thickens
Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens slightly. The goal is to achieve a glossy, rich consistency that clings well to the chicken.
Step 7: Add the Fried Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened, add the previously fried chicken pieces to the pan. The crispy chicken will absorb the flavors of the sauce as you mix.
Step 8: Coat the Chicken Completely
Stir the chicken in the sauce until all pieces are evenly coated. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to let the flavors fully combine. Remove from heat once the chicken looks glossy and delicious.
Plating and Presentation
Step 1: Garnish with Green Onions
Sprinkle chopped green onions (sabz pyaz) on top of the chicken. This adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and makes the dish visually appealing with a pop of green.
Step 2: Add Sesame Seeds
Finish by sprinkling white sesame seeds (safaid til) over the chicken. These add a nutty flavor and a pleasant crunch, while also enhancing the presentation.
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Korean chicken alongside a generous portion of fluffy rice. This combination of crispy, saucy chicken with soft rice makes for a comforting and delicious meal. Garnish further, if desired, and enjoy your beautifully plated dish!
This flavorful rice recipe with Korean chicken is now ready to impress!
Credit: These images taken from this Youtube Channal: SuperChef
Pairing Suggestions
When serving this rice recipe with Korean chicken, the right pairings can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some delicious ideas to complete your dining experience:
1. Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables like cabbage and radish. Its tangy, spicy flavor pairs perfectly with the crispy and savory Korean chicken, cutting through the richness of the dish and adding a refreshing crunch.
2. Pickled Radish
Korean pickled radish, known as “danmuji,” is a mildly sweet and tangy side that balances the spice in the chicken. Its bright yellow color also adds a pop of vibrancy to your plate.
3. Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas make a great side dish. They add a healthy balance to the meal while keeping it light and colorful. A simple drizzle of sesame oil over the vegetables ties the flavors together beautifully.
4. Seaweed Salad
Seaweed salad is another classic Korean pairing. Its umami flavor complements the savory chicken and rice while offering a unique texture.
5. Refreshing Beverages
For drinks, consider pairing your rice recipe with Korean chicken with something cool and refreshing like iced tea, lemonade, or even a fruity soda. If you prefer alcoholic beverages, a light beer or soju (a Korean distilled beverage) works wonderfully.
6. Garnishes and Sauces
Serve the dish with extra gochujang sauce or a small side of soy-sesame dipping sauce. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions on the rice and chicken adds the perfect finishing touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this rice recipe with Korean chicken is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dish turns out amazing:
1. Overcrowding the Pan
When frying chicken, avoid putting too many pieces in the pan at once. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, making the chicken soggy instead of crispy. Fry in small batches for the best results.
2. Skipping the Marinade
The marinade is the soul of Korean chicken. Skipping this step or not letting the chicken marinate long enough will result in bland meat. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes overnight if possible.
3. Using the Wrong Rice
Long-grain rice like basmati doesn’t work well with this dish. Stick to short-grain or jasmine rice, which has a slightly sticky texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
4. Not Rinsing the Rice
Rinsing rice removes excess starch, which can make it overly sticky or mushy. Skipping this step may result in rice with an undesirable texture.
5. Undercooking or Overcooking the Chicken
Undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat, while overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Using Low-Quality Oil
Cheap or old oil can affect the taste and texture of your fried chicken. Always use fresh, neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil for frying.
7. Neglecting Presentation
How you plate the dish matters! A well-presented plate with garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions makes the meal visually appealing and more enjoyable to eat.
Health Benefits of the Dish
This rice recipe with Korean chicken is not only delicious but also comes with several health benefits when prepared thoughtfully. Here’s why this dish can be a nutritious addition to your meal plan:
1. Rich Source of Protein
The chicken in this recipe is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein also helps in muscle growth and keeps you feeling full for longer. Using chicken thighs or drumsticks adds healthy fats, while boneless, skinless chicken can be a lighter option for those watching their fat intake.
2. Energy-Packed Carbohydrates
The rice in this dish is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing the energy your body needs for daily activities. Short-grain or jasmine rice is slightly sticky, which makes it easy to digest. To boost the nutritional value, you can substitute white rice with brown rice, which is rich in fiber and helps with digestion.
3. Low in Processed Sugars
Unlike many store-bought or takeout meals, this homemade rice recipe with Korean chicken allows you to control the sugar content. Using natural sweeteners like honey instead of refined sugar in the marinade makes the dish healthier without compromising on flavor.
4. Boosts Metabolism with Spices
This dish includes garlic, ginger, and gochujang, all of which are known for their metabolism-boosting properties.
- Garlic helps reduce inflammation and supports heart health.
- Ginger aids digestion and has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gochujang contains capsaicin, which may help burn calories and improve fat metabolism.
5. Rich in Essential Nutrients
The marinade and garnish ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and sesame seeds provide essential nutrients.
- Soy sauce is a source of iron and antioxidants (just use it in moderation to avoid excess sodium).
- Sesame oil contains healthy fats that support heart health and improve cholesterol levels.
- Sesame seeds are rich in calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which contribute to strong bones and a healthy immune system.
6. Customizable for Dietary Needs
This dish is highly versatile. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you can use low-sodium soy sauce. For a lower-calorie version, bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. Swapping white rice for cauliflower rice is another great option if you’re cutting carbs.
7. High in Antioxidants
The bold flavors in this rice recipe with Korean chicken come from ingredients like gochujang and garlic, which are packed with antioxidants. These help combat free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
8. Balances Your Meal
Pairing this dish with healthy sides like steamed vegetables, kimchi, or a light seaweed salad boosts its overall nutritional value. Vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
9. Supports Gut Health
Kimchi or pickled radish, often served alongside this recipe, contains probiotics that promote healthy gut bacteria. A healthy gut is crucial for better digestion and overall immunity.
10. Homemade is Always Healthier
Cooking this dish at home allows you to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and avoid preservatives, artificial flavors, or unhealthy oils often used in restaurant-prepared Korean chicken.
Conclusion
This rice recipe with Korean chicken is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The harmonious blend of crispy, spicy chicken and soft, fluffy rice creates a flavor explosion you’ll want to savor again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy this delightful dish!
if you’re looking for more dishes so, you can try this I really like it Crispy Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipes
FAQs
What is the best sauce for Korean chicken and rice?
The best sauce for Korean chicken is a blend of soy sauce, honey, vinegar, and red chili flakes, creating a sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor. This sauce coats the chicken perfectly and pairs well with rice.
How do I make Korean chicken crispy?
To achieve crispy chicken, coat it with a mixture of corn flour and fry it in hot oil. Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) to create a golden, crispy crust.
Can I prepare this rice recipe with Korean chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately in advance. Fry the chicken and store it in an airtight container, then reheat and coat it with freshly warmed sauce before serving.
Is this Korean chicken recipe kid-friendly?
To make it kid-friendly, reduce or omit the red chili flakes in the sauce and add a bit more honey for a sweeter flavor. The result is a mildly spiced dish kids will love.
What can I serve with rice and Korean chicken?
Serve it with sides like kimchi, pickled radish, steamed vegetables, or seaweed salad. These pairings complement the dish and add variety to the meal.
Rice Recipe with Korean Chicken
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Frying Pan/Wok
- Spatula
- Whisk
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 700 g boneless chicken cubed
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp crushed black pepper
- 1/2 cup corn flour
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 3 tbsp red chili flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp water
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1/2 tbsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tbsp grated garlic
For Garnishing:
- Chopped green onions as required
- Sesame seeds as required
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Place chicken cubes in a bowl.
- Add sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add corn flour and coat the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat 3/4 cup of oil in a frying pan.
- Fry chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, vinegar, red chili flakes, salt, sesame oil, and water. Whisk well.
Step 4: Cook Aromatics
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
- Sauté grated ginger and garlic for 1 minute.
Step 5: Combine Sauce and Chicken
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and cook until it thickens.
- Add the fried chicken and mix until fully coated.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Serve the chicken with cooked rice.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.