The very first time I tasted Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken was at a small Korean eatery I stumbled upon while traveling abroad. The combination of sweet honey and spicy gochujang instantly won my heart.
I remember trying to guess all the ingredients just so I could recreate it at home. The joy of discovering new flavors far from home is something I always cherish, and this recipe brings that sense of adventure right into my own kitchen.
Over the years, I’ve made this dish for countless family dinners and friend gatherings. Each time, it takes me back to that bustling street market where I first experienced the sweet-spicy kick of gochujang.
There’s a warmth and comfort in sharing something you love with the people who matter most, and for me, Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a tried-and-true staple that never fails to impress and delight.
Quick Overview
- Recipe: Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
- Key Ingredients: Chicken (thighs or breasts), gochujang, honey, soy sauce, garlic
- Time to Make: Approximately 30 minutes total
- Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
- Flavor Packed: The irresistible fusion of sweet honey and spicy gochujang creates a sauce that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights—minimal prep, quick cook time, and a straightforward process.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or with a fresh salad. You can adapt it to your taste buds and add your own spin.
Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken Ingredient Notes
- Chicken: Thighs are my favorite for their juiciness, but breasts work if you prefer leaner cuts. Look for organic or locally sourced when possible.
- Gochujang: A Korean chili paste that gives this dish its signature kick. Different brands vary in heat level; choose one that matches your spice tolerance.
- Honey: Balances the heat from gochujang. Any good-quality honey will do, but raw or local honey can introduce special floral notes.
Possible Substitutions for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
- Maple Syrup: Offers a deeper caramel-like sweetness if you don’t have honey on hand.
- Sriracha: Not as complex as gochujang, but can serve as a convenient substitute for a spicy kick.
How to Make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and a pinch of ginger. Add chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Sear: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil. Place the chicken in the skillet, reserving any extra marinade. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side to lock in the juices and achieve a golden color.
- Sauce It Up: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer until it thickens and coats the chicken evenly. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
- Finish & Garnish: Remove from heat. Top with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for extra flavor and texture. Serve hot with your favorite side.
Expert Tips for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
- Temperature Control
- Why It Matters: Proper heat prevents burning the honey while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
- Implementation: Preheat your skillet well, then reduce to medium or medium-low as the sauce cooks to maintain the perfect sticky consistency.
- Ingredient Quality & Seasonal Swaps
- Why It Matters: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients can elevate a simple dish to restaurant-level delicious.
- Ideas: When tomatoes are in season, add some diced fresh tomatoes for an acidic counterpoint.
- Sauce Consistency Adjustments
- Common Problem: Sauce too thick or too thin.
- Solution: Add a splash of water or chicken broth if it’s too thick, or let it simmer longer (or add a cornstarch slurry) if too thin.
- Make It Your Own
- Variations: Try adding a spoonful of peanut butter for a creamy twist, or experiment with different chili pastes.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with jasmine rice, pickled vegetables, or a crunchy slaw for texture contrast.
- Brand/Product Recommendations (Optional)
- Why It Matters: Not all gochujang is created equal; some are sweeter, some are hotter.
- Tip: Bibigo brand is often a good starting point if you’re new to gochujang, as it’s moderately spicy and easy to find.
- Leftover Reinvention
- Why It Matters: Reduces waste and saves time on busy days.
- Tip: Shred leftover chicken and add it to fried rice, tacos, or even a cheesy quesadilla for a flavorful lunch.
FAQs for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can. However, make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge before marinating. This ensures the marinade can penetrate the meat evenly and prevents uneven cooking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Check the labels on your gochujang (some brands contain wheat), use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and opt for gluten-free cornstarch (if thickening the sauce). That way, you can still enjoy all the flavor without the gluten.
Can I cook it in a slow cooker or air fryer?
Absolutely. For a slow cooker, marinate the chicken as usual, then cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, adding the sauce toward the end to prevent burning. If using an air fryer, place marinated chicken in a single layer and cook at about 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. Adjust times based on your appliance and chicken size.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can easily swap the chicken for tofu, tempeh, or even cauliflower florets. Be sure to press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess moisture before marinating, so they soak up all that delicious sauce.
Storing, Freezing, and Make-Ahead
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm up in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.
- Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to cook, so all you have to do is sear and finish with the sauce.
More Asian Recipe Ideas
- Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry
- Pineapple Chicken
- Sesame Chicken
- Ground Beef Fried Rice
- Slow Cooker Orange Chicken
- Chicken Broccoli Stir-Fry
- Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles
- Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry
- Teriyaki Salmon
- Asian Chicken Wings
Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken brings bold, unforgettable flavor to the table in just half an hour.
Each time I make it, I’m reminded of how food connects us to places, memories, and loved ones. I hope this recipe fills your kitchen with that same sense of delight and adventure.
Let me know how it turns out and if you discover any fun twists along the way!
Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Discover the mouthwatering combination of sweet honey and spicy gochujang in our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken coated in a sticky, flavor-packed sauce—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you crave bold, comforting flavors. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons Gochujang
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Combine gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and garlic in a bowl. Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side.
- Add remaining marinade to the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Once chicken is fully cooked (165°F internally), garnish with sesame seeds or scallions. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 518Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 218mgSodium 1184mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 1gSugar 18gProtein 42g
