Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. I first discovered the magic of bulgogi when a friend shared her Korean grandmother’s marinade recipe. It had the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a touch of spice. The first time I made Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry for my family, it became an instant hit. The smell of garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil sizzling in the pan had everyone rushing to the kitchen, eager for a taste.
A Recipe for Togetherness
What I love about Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry is how versatile and quick it is. On weeknights, when time is short, I can whip it up with a handful of fresh vegetables and tender chicken slices. The marinade only takes minutes to prepare, yet it brings a world of flavor. Sometimes, I let the chicken soak overnight for a deeper taste, but even a quick 20-minute marination does the trick. Paired with steamed rice, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table, no matter how hectic the day.
Adding a Personal Touch
Over time, I’ve made Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry my own by experimenting with different vegetables. Broccoli and bell peppers are my go-to, but I’ve also thrown in zucchini or even bok choy when I had them on hand. The joy of cooking this dish is in the sizzling sounds and the way the sauce caramelizes, coating each bite with a rich, glossy flavor. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and adapts to whatever you have in your kitchen.
A Dish Full of Memories
Every time I make Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry, it reminds me of the first time I cooked it, with the excitement of sharing something new with my family. Now, it’s a regular part of our dinner rotation, often requested on birthdays or cozy weekend nights. Cooking this dish has become more than just a task; it’s a way to bring a little comfort and connection to our table. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful stir-fry that’s packed with heart and soul, this one is worth trying.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Have all your ingredients pre-measured and ready to go. This ensures a smooth cooking process, especially since stir-frying requires quick actions.
- Slice Chicken Thinly and Evenly: Thin, uniform slices ensure the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. Slightly freezing the chicken before slicing makes it easier to handle.
- Use a Hot Pan: Preheat your skillet well before adding the chicken. A hot pan helps sear the chicken quickly and locks in juices for a tender texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re doubling the recipe or using a smaller skillet, cook the chicken in batches to prevent steaming instead of browning.
- Taste and Adjust the Seasoning: Marinades can vary in intensity, so taste the sauce as it cooks and adjust salt or sweetness to your liking.
- Caramelization Adds Flavor: Let the chicken sit undisturbed for 1-2 minutes during cooking to develop a light caramelization before stirring.
- Garnish Strategically: Fresh garnishes like green onions or sesame seeds not only add flavor but also enhance the dish’s presentation.
Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry
4
15
minutes15
minutes400
kcal30
minutesElevate your weeknight dinners with this Quick and Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry! Bursting with savory and sweet flavors, this Korean-inspired dish combines tender chicken with a delectable marinade that’s both simple and irresistible. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy families looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is customizable to suit your tastes and sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it over steamed rice for a satisfying and wholesome experience!
Ingredients
- Marinade
5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2.5 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
1/4 cup finely diced onion
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Protein
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts thinly sliced
- Alternative Ingredients:
Soy Sauce Replacement: Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar Alternative: Substitute with coconut sugar or honey.
Chicken Substitute: Replace with thinly sliced beef or pork for variety.
Sesame Oil Alternative: Use canola oil if sesame oil is unavailable.
Directions
- Prepare the Marinade – In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, diced onion, toasted sesame seeds, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the marinade is smooth and well-blended, about 3 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken – Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the skillet, then pour the prepared marinade over the top. Stir continuously to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavorful marinade. Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, approximately 15 minutes. Optionally, garnish with additional sesame seeds before serving.
Equipment
- cast iron skillet
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Notes
- For an enhanced depth of flavor, add a splash of rice wine or a grated Asian pear to the marinade. Pair this Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal. To add a crunchy texture, sprinkle sliced green onions or toasted nuts on top before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prepping. For an extra spicy kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or incorporate a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the cooking process.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 200IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Easy Chicken Bulgogi Stir-Fry
Can I use a different type of protein?
Yes! Thinly sliced beef, pork, or even tofu work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time to suit the protein choice.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for an authentic and spicy kick.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! The marinade can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to meld even further.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad. Kimchi or pickled radish adds a traditional Korean touch.
