Best Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi)

Discovering the Flavors

Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi) has always been one of my favorite dishes to make and enjoy. The first time I tried Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi), I was instantly captivated by its rich flavors and juicy texture. I remember being at a summer BBQ with friends, where the aroma of grilled chicken marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic filled the air. That day, I decided to create my own version of Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi) using chicken breasts instead of the traditional short ribs, and it turned out to be a huge hit!

Creating the Perfect Marinade

The magic of Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi) lies in its marinade. To make this dish truly special, I combine soy sauce, water, and apple cider vinegar with toasted sesame oil. Adding finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and freshly ground black pepper brings a balance of savory and sweet flavors. I make sure to whisk everything together until the sugars dissolve, creating a smooth marinade that will penetrate the chicken deeply. This marinade not only adds incredible flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist and tender during grilling.

The Joy of Marination

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that requires patience, but it’s well worth the wait. I submerge the boneless chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Covering the bowl with plastic wrap, I let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least seven hours, or even overnight if I can. This extended marination time allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with deliciousness. When it’s time to grill, the anticipation of tasting the final result makes the wait even more exciting.

Grilling and Serving

Grilling the marinated chicken is the final step that brings the dish together. I preheat my outdoor grill to medium-high heat, then place the chicken breasts on the hot grill, cooking each side for about seven minutes. The chicken develops beautiful grill marks and a caramelized exterior while staying juicy inside. Once done, I transfer the chicken to a rustic wooden platter, garnishing it with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Served hot with steamed rice and kimchi, this Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi) never fails to impress. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, this dish brings joy and satisfaction every time.

Chef’s Notes- Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi)

• Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 7 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best flavor. This allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Cutting the Chicken: If using thicker chicken breasts, consider butterflying them to ensure even cooking and better marinade penetration.
• Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 375°F). This temperature helps achieve a nice caramelization on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Resting Period: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a grill, you can use a broiler or stovetop grill pan. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Korean BBQ Chicken

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Main CourseCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

people

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

14

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Resting Time

7

hours 

Total time

7

hours 

29

minutes

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Korean BBQ Chicken Galbi! This easy-to-follow recipe swaps out traditional short ribs for succulent chicken breasts, marinated to perfection in a savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and aromatic spices. Perfect for grilling or broiling, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering. Dive into the flavors of Korea with this simple yet irresistible recipe!

Ingredients

• Marinade Base

• 3/4 cup soy sauce

• 3/4 cup water

• 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

• Aromatics and Sweeteners

• 1/2 large onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup minced garlic

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper

• Main Protein

• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Soy Sauce: Tamari for gluten-free

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Rice vinegar

• Dark Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar

• Chicken Breasts: Tofu for vegetarian/vegan

Directions

• Marinade Preparation – In a large non-metallic bowl, combine soy sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. Whisk in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and freshly ground black pepper until the sugars are fully dissolved. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
• Marinating the Chicken – Submerge the boneless chicken breasts in the prepared marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 7 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• Grilling the Chicken – Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook each side for approximately 7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is nicely caramelized.
• Serving – Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice and kimchi.

Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• grill or broiler

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 450kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Potassium: 600mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Vitamin A: 2IU
• Vitamin C: 10mg
• Calcium: 4mg
• Iron: 10mg

FAQ- Korean BBQ Chicken (Galbi)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This can save time on the day you plan to cook.

What can I serve with Korean BBQ Chicken?

Traditional sides include steamed rice, kimchi, and a variety of banchan (Korean side dishes). You can also serve it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, include a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) in the marinade. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken before grilling.