Oh, Dakgalbi — the spicy, savory, and absolutely addictive Korean dish! 🍗🔥 Dakgalbi is stir-fried chicken in a deliciously spicy sauce, often served with rice, vegetables, and sometimes even cheese (for that perfect creamy, cheesy finish). Let’s make this flavorful dish!
🇰🇷 Korean Spicy Chicken (Dakgalbi) Recipe
🕒 Time: 45 minutes
🍽 Serves: 3–4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 small carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 cup cabbage (or napa cabbage), chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Optional: 1-2 cups cooked rice (to stir in toward the end)
Optional:
- Mozzarella cheese (optional, for the cheesy version)
- Green onions (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame seeds, and black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for the best flavor). - Stir-Fry the Veggies:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion, zucchini, carrot, cabbage, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp. Remove and set aside. - Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 7-10 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. You want that beautiful caramelized color on the chicken. - Combine Everything:
Add the stir-fried vegetables back into the pan with the chicken. Toss everything together so it’s all coated in that spicy sauce.
If you’re making the cheesy version, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt (this is optional but sooo good!). - Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice or mix the rice directly into the pan for a flavorful, one-pot meal.
🍽️ Serving Ideas:
- With steamed rice or stir-fried rice
- Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy bite
- Serve with a side of kimchi or pickled radishes for a tangy contrast
🌶️ Extra Spice Options:
- For more heat, add extra gochugaru, or a few slices of fresh jalapeño or Thai bird’s eye chili.
- Add a bit of cheese: You can even go extra indulgent by mixing in some creamy cheese sauce or adding a layer of cheese towards the end for a cheesy Dakgalbi experience.
Enjoy your spicy, savory Dakgalbi! 🍗🔥 It’s the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami, and it’s perfect for sharing (or not!). 😋
