Korean Chicken Breasts

Korean Chicken Breasts are a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine right to your grill. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues with friends. With its juicy texture and rich marinade, it stands out among grilled chicken recipes. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy cooks who still want to enjoy delicious food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible taste that elevates simple chicken breasts.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 80 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who want a speedy yet satisfying meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve Korean Chicken Breasts on their own, over rice, or in wraps; it adapts beautifully to various meals.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in calories, this dish fits well into a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Korean Chicken Breasts successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure you get the best results while preparing this mouthwatering dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Ziploc bags
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Medium mixing bowl
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Ziploc bags: Ideal for marinating chicken without mess; they keep flavors locked in.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Helps pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that signature charred flavor and crispy exterior that makes grilled chicken so delicious.

Ingredients

This is the BEST grilled chicken recipe! Not just because I’m obsessed with Korean food, it’s just so juicy and flavorful, and this is coming from a girl who prefers dark meat. It’s also quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight grilling.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp light brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for topping)

For Garnish

• 2 thinly sliced scallions (white and green parts)

How to Make Korean Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Pound the Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts, one at a time, in a Ziploc bag. Pound the chicken breast to an even thickness of about ½ inch thick while being careful not to puncture the bag.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine:
* Soy sauce
* Apple sauce
* Onion
* Sesame oil
* Ginger
* Brown sugar
* Garlic
* Red pepper flakes (if using)
* Sesame seeds

Reserve ¼ cup of this marinade. Transfer the remaining marinade into the Ziploc bag with the pounded chicken. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken Breasts

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes until it no longer sticks to the grill. Turn each piece over, spoon the reserved ¼ cup of marinade over each breast, and grill for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked.

Enjoy your delicious Korean Chicken Breasts!

How to Serve Korean Chicken Breasts

Serving Korean chicken breasts can elevate your meal with unique flavors and textures. Here are some tempting suggestions to enjoy this dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice complements the savory notes of the chicken.
• Sticky Sushi Rice: Use this for a fun twist, pairing well with the marinade’s sweetness.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve slices of chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: Add veggies and sauce for a delicious, portable meal.

As a Salad Topping

• Korean-Inspired Salad: Toss mixed greens with sesame dressing and top with grilled chicken.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy side adds texture and balances the meat’s juiciness.

How to Perfect Korean Chicken Breasts

To achieve perfectly grilled Korean chicken breasts, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure even thickness for consistent cooking and juiciness.
• Use High Heat: Grill at medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
• Don’t Overcook: Monitor cooking time closely; overcooking can dry out the chicken.
• Rest Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain juices.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with sesame seeds and scallions for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chicken Breasts

Pairing side dishes with Korean chicken breasts can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Kimchi: This fermented dish adds tanginess and spice, perfectly contrasting the chicken’s flavor.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies stir-fried in sesame oil complement the meal beautifully.
3. Miso Soup: A light soup can round out your meal, providing warmth and umami flavor.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with vinegar dressing offers a crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables makes for a wholesome side that pairs well with grilled meats.
6. Pickled Radishes: These provide a crunchy, tangy accent that brightens each bite of chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Korean Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using non-skinless chicken: Opting for chicken with skin can lead to a greasy result. Always choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a healthier and more flavorful outcome.
• Skipping the marination step: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Ensure you allow at least one hour for marinating, or even overnight for enhanced taste.
• Grilling at too high a temperature: If your grill is too hot, the outside may cook too quickly while the inside remains raw. Aim for medium-high heat and monitor cooking times closely.
• Not resting the chicken: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken breasts for too long can lead to a tough texture. Always check for doneness and remove them from the grill once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Korean Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
• item It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing Korean Chicken Breasts

• item Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• item Frozen Korean Chicken Breasts can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Chicken Breasts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the chicken and cover until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks, but adjust cooking times accordingly as these cuts take longer to cook than breasts.

What should I serve with Korean Chicken Breasts?

Pair this dish with rice or noodles and steamed vegetables for a complete meal that complements its flavors beautifully.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To increase heat, add more red pepper flakes or incorporate sliced fresh chilies into the marinade before grilling.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Absolutely! Korean Chicken Breasts are perfect for meal prep. Just store them in individual containers with sides for quick lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chicken Breasts offer incredible flavor and juiciness that make them stand out among grilled chicken recipes. Their versatility allows you to customize marinades and sides based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping!