Korean Chicken Breasts

This Korean Chicken Breasts recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves grilled chicken with a twist. It’s packed with flavor from the marinade, making it juicy and tender in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues, this dish will impress your family and friends alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so you can enjoy authentic Korean flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Preparation takes only 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The marinade combines soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, in wraps, or on salads for different meals throughout the week.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken breasts and fresh ingredients, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready for fast lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Korean Chicken Breasts, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Ziploc bags
• Grill (or grill pan)
• Meat mallet
• Medium bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Ziploc bags: Perfect for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor while cooking the chicken to perfection.
• Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness, helping the chicken cook uniformly.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing your marinade ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these amazing Korean Chicken Breasts:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise, from 2 breasts)
• 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)
• 2 thinly sliced scallions (white and green parts)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Korean Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place the chicken breasts one at a time into a Ziploc bag.
2. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about ½ inch. Be cautious not to puncture the bag while doing this.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, combine:
2. soy sauce
3. apple sauce
4. chopped onion
5. sesame oil
6. grated ginger
7. brown sugar
8. crushed garlic
9. Optional: add red pepper flakes for heat.
10. Stir in sesame seeds.
11. Reserve ¼ cup of this marinade separately.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Transfer the remaining marinade into the Ziploc bag with the chicken breasts.
2. Seal the bag and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to infuse.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
2. Grill each chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes or until it no longer sticks to the grill grates.
3. Flip each piece over and spoon reserved marinade over them before grilling an additional 2 to 3 minutes.

Now you have delicious Korean Chicken Breasts ready to serve! Enjoy them hot off the grill or store them for later meals.

How to Serve Korean Chicken Breasts

Korean chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Sandwich

• Korean Chicken Sandwich: Slice the grilled chicken and layer it on a toasted bun with fresh veggies and spicy mayo for an exciting twist.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy steamed rice to soak up the flavorful marinade, making for a satisfying meal.

In a Salad

• Grilled Chicken Salad: Chop the chicken and toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a sesame dressing for a refreshing salad.

Tacos

• Korean Chicken Tacos: Fill corn tortillas with sliced chicken, cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of sriracha for a fusion taco night.

With Noodles

• Noodle Bowl: Combine the chicken with soba noodles, bok choy, and a light soy sauce dressing for an easy and tasty dish.

How to Perfect Korean Chicken Breasts

To achieve the most flavorful and juicy Korean chicken breasts, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavor even more.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and scallions can significantly boost the taste of your marinade.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken is pounded to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly on the grill.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Keep your grill at medium-high heat. Too hot can burn the outside while leaving it raw inside.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chicken Breasts

Pairing side dishes with your Korean chicken breasts can create a balanced and delightful meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds spice and tanginess that pairs well with grilled flavors.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad tossed in vinegar is perfect to balance the savory notes of the chicken.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick stir-fried seasonal vegetables add crunch and color to your plate.
4. Bulgur Wheat: Lightly seasoned bulgur wheat offers a nutty flavor that complements Korean spices beautifully.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with sea salt provide comfort alongside your grilled chicken.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers umami depth that enhances your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating chicken for too little time can result in bland flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, or even overnight for deeper flavor.
• Not Pounding the Chicken: If you don’t pound the chicken to an even thickness, it may cook unevenly. Ensure each piece is about ½ inch thick for consistent grilling.
• Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Using regular soy sauce can make your chicken overly salty. Opt for low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce to control the saltiness.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on a grill that isn’t hot enough can lead to sticking. Preheat your grill properly to ensure a good sear and prevent sticking.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooking chicken can make it dry. Grill just until no longer pink and use a meat thermometer if needed, aiming for 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Korean Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Korean Chicken Breasts

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag; it can be frozen for 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. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and lightly steam the chicken until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Korean Chicken Breasts less spicy?

If you want milder Korean Chicken Breasts, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes from the marinade. You can also increase the apple sauce slightly for added sweetness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, using thighs will yield even juicier results due to their higher fat content. Adjust cooking times as needed.

What sides go well with Korean Chicken Breasts?

Pair these flavorful chicken breasts with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Korean Chicken Breasts are done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part – it should be no longer pink.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chicken Breasts are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. This dish packs bold flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Feel free to customize the marinade by adding more spices or adjusting sweetness levels according to your preference. Enjoy this delightful twist on grilled chicken!

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Korean Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Korean Chicken Breasts offer a delightful twist on traditional grilled chicken, infusing each juicy bite with the rich flavors of a savory marinade. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this dish combines the umami of soy sauce, the warmth of ginger, and a hint of sweetness from apple sauce and brown sugar. In just 15 minutes of preparation and minimal cooking time, you can serve up a flavorful meal that will impress family and friends alike. Versatile enough to be enjoyed in wraps, salads, or alongside rice, Korean Chicken Breasts are an easy way to bring authentic Korean flavors to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup low sodium 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)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

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Instructions

1. Place chicken breasts in a Ziploc bag and pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch.
2. In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, apple sauce, chopped onion, sesame oil, ginger, brown sugar, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Reserve ¼ cup marinade; add the rest to the bag with chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least one hour.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill each breast for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 95mg