What type of gochujang is best for making chicken thighs?

For best results, choose gochujang paste sold in tubs rather than squeeze bottles, as it has a thicker consistency ideal for marinades. You can select mild, medium, or super spicy versions depending on your heat preference. Starting with a small tub is recommended if you’re trying it for the first time to find the right spiciness level that suits your taste.

Can I substitute brown sugar with another sweetener in the marinade?

Brown sugar is preferred because it adds a rich caramel flavor that balances the spicy and savory elements. However, you can substitute it with alternatives like honey or maple syrup, but expect a slightly different taste profile. White sugar is not ideal as it lacks the depth of flavor that brown sugar brings to the marinade.

How long should I marinate chicken thighs for the best flavor?

Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. For more intense taste, you can marinate them up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. Avoid marinating longer than 24 hours, as the texture might start to break down and become mushy.

What is the safest way to tell when the gochujang chicken thighs are fully cooked?

Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Fully cooked chicken thighs should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.

What’s the best way to store leftover gochujang chicken thighs?

Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving to maintain moisture and flavor.

Gochujang Chicken Thighs Recipe With Spicy Sweet Sauce

Name: Gochujang Chicken Thighs
Prep time: PT-491967H36M9S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 3 to 4 tablespoons gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste); 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili powder or flakes); 2½ tablespoons light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon pure sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 8 to 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (bone-in skin-on optional, with longer cooking time)

Description

🌶️ Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with these perfectly balanced spicy-sweet chicken thighs
🍗 Tender, juicy chicken glazed in a rich gochujang sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill

Ingredients

Scale

3 to 4 tablespoons gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)

1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili powder or flakes)

2½ tablespoons light brown sugar

2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon pure sesame oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

8 to 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (bone-in skin-on optional, with longer cooking time)

Instructions

1-In a small bowl, combine 3 to 4 tablespoons gochujang, 1 teaspoon gochugaru, 2½ tablespoons light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon pure sesame oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to make the marinade.

2-Place 8 to 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or sealable bag and coat them thoroughly with the marinade.

3-Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor, as per the recipe’s preparation time.

4-Preheat your grill to 400ºF or heat oil in a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

5-Cook the chicken thighs smooth side down for 4 to 5 minutes, then flip and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, adjusting based on size.

6-Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC) for safe eating.

7-Remove from heat, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy, as the tips suggest.

Notes

🌡️ Always verify doneness with a thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken every time
⏰ If chicken sticks to the grill or pan, wait a few more minutes as it will release naturally
🥘 The marinade can be prepared in larger amounts but use within one week for best flavor

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 8 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 chicken thighs
Calories: 352
Sugar: 9
Sodium: 627
Fat: 13
Saturated Fat: 3
Unsaturated Fat: 9
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 13
Fiber: 1
Protein: 45
Cholesterol: 215

Keywords: gochujang chicken, korean chicken, spicy chicken thighs, korean bbq