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Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken

Savory Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken with a Sweet Gochujang Twist

This Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken features a sweet gochujang sauce for a flavor-packed meal that's easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 245

Ingredients
  

For the BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup opt for low-sugar ketchup if you're watching calories
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang chili paste
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier twist
  • 2 tablespoons honey maple syrup can be a delightful alternative
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce tamari is a great gluten-free substitute
  • 1 tablespoon ginger paste fresh grated ginger works just as well
  • 1 tablespoon garlic paste you can substitute fresh minced garlic
For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs chicken breasts are an option for a leaner choice
  • to taste kosher salt
  • to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Saucepan
  • meat thermometer
  • Plastic Bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of ketchup, 3 tablespoons of gochujang, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of ginger paste, and 1 tablespoon of garlic paste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Allow the sauce to cool down as you prepare the chicken.
  2. Take 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in a gallon-size plastic bag. Pour in a few spoonfuls of the prepared Korean BBQ sauce along with kosher salt and pepper to taste. Seal the bag tightly and gently massage the chicken to ensure it's evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
  3. About 15 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
  4. Once the grill is ready, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs on the grates. Grill them for about 4-6 minutes per side, flipping when they release easily from the grill.
  5. During the last two minutes of cooking, brush the thighs with additional Korean BBQ sauce.
  6. After grilling, ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
  7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving, drizzling with remaining sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 245kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. Serve with grilled corn or a salad for a complete meal.

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