There’s something about a Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl that hits every note—sweet, savory, smoky, and spicy—all in one comforting, saucy package. This is my go-to when I want a high-protein meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. We’re talking tender marinated chicken, garlicky gochujang sauce, fresh vegetables, fluffy rice, and that magical contrast of heat and crunch. If you love easy Asian-inspired bowls or crave the bold umami of Korean flavors, this recipe is for you.
It’s fast, satisfying, and versatile enough to hit the table any night of the week. Whether you’re keeping it simple for a healthy weeknight dinner, meal prepping lunches, or building a low-carb bowl, this dish is all about balance and flavor-forward comfort. With every bite, you get that grilled chicken caramelization, spicy-sweet BBQ sauce, crunchy pickled veggies, and fragrant jasmine rice or cauliflower rice underneath it all.
From first sear to final drizzle, this Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl gives you restaurant-quality taste in about 30 minutes. And because you’re building it in a bowl, it’s easy to customize for any dietary goals—low carb, high protein, gluten-free—you name it. Let’s build something bold together.
Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl (Bold, Spicy & Comfort-Fueled Flavor in Every Bite)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp gochujang
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- ½ cucumber sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the ChickenWhisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight for max flavor).
- Step 2: Cook the ChickenHeat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Let rest, then slice.
- Step 3: Build the BowlsScoop rice into bowls, top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Garnish with sesame seeds and drizzle with extra marinade (if cooked and safe).
- Step 4: Serve & EnjoyPair with iced green tea or sparkling water with lime.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl
1. Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor: While 30 minutes of marinating works, letting the chicken sit overnight deepens the gochujang flavor and tenderizes the meat even more. It’s a great make-ahead hack. 2. Use Thighs Over Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are not only more flavorful, but they also retain moisture better under high heat—especially if you’re grilling or pan-searing. 3. Sear, Then Simmer in Sauce: To develop a crust, sear the chicken first without crowding the pan. Once browned, pour in a little extra sauce to glaze and coat. That double-step locks in bold Korean BBQ flavor. 4. Pickle Quick—While You Prep: Toss thinly sliced carrots or radish in rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and salt. Let it sit while the chicken cooks. This easy quick-pickle adds tangy crunch and contrast without much effort. 5. Toast Your Rice (Briefly!): Before serving, warm your cooked jasmine rice in a pan with a touch of sesame oil. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and texture that elevates every bite. 6. Add a Fried or Jammy Egg: For extra richness and that authentic Korean rice bowl flair, top with a fried egg or a soft-boiled jammy egg. The runny yolk mixes perfectly into the gochujang-glazed chicken and rice. 7. Finish with a Flavor Bomb Drizzle: Combine a touch of sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey or maple syrup. Drizzle over the finished bowl for added shine, moisture, and punch. 8. Prep Veggies in Batches for Future Meals: Double up your cucumber, scallion, and carrot prep and store them in airtight containers. You’ll have the base ready for a second or third bowl later in the week.Recipe Overview
Difficulty Level: Easy
Course: Dinner / One-Pan Meal
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired
Servings: 4 to 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Nutritional Snapshot
Per Serving (Approximate):
Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Budget Breakdown (Estimates for 4 Servings)
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: $6.00
- Jasmine Rice: $1.50
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): $1.50
- Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Garlic, Ginger: $1.00
- Cucumber, Carrots, Green Onion: $2.50
- Total: $12.50 ($3.13 per bowl)
Behind the Recipe
This Korean BBQ chicken bowl is my go-to when I want bold flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The marinade takes cues from bulgogi and dak galbi—classic Korean dishes known for their balance of umami, sweetness, and heat. I simplified it a bit so you don’t need specialty ingredients like Asian pear or rice wine, but still kept the flavor legit.
I chose chicken thighs because they’re forgiving, juicy, and budget-friendly. They also hold up well to high heat, whether you’re grilling, pan-searing, or air-frying. The bowl format came naturally—it’s how I love to eat: some protein, something crunchy, a flavorful carb, and sauce that brings it all together. Add a quick pickle, and this dish goes from simple to sensational.
Bowls like these are a great way to introduce global flavors into your weekly routine without overwhelming your pantry. I’ve made this with brown rice, cauliflower rice, and even soba noodles, and every variation hits different. It’s a little spicy, a little sweet, a little smoky—and a whole lotta satisfying.
If you’re curious about the benefits of fermented foods like gochujang, check out this guide from Cleveland Clinic on how they can support gut health.
What Makes It Irresistible
Gochujang Marinade Magic
The secret to the unforgettable depth of flavor in this Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl is all in the marinade. A bold blend of gochujang (Korean chili paste), low-sodium soy sauce, fresh garlic, grated ginger, and a drizzle of honey gives the chicken that perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami. As it sears in the skillet or on the grill, the sugars caramelize into a sticky glaze that clings to every bite. If you’re aiming for spicy Korean chicken that’s healthy and packed with flavor, this is your sauce. WebMD explains how gochujang delivers flavor while keeping added fats low.
Tender Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are your best friend here. They’re juicy, forgiving, and absorb flavor like a sponge. They also hold up better under high heat than chicken breast, which means they stay tender on the inside and crisp up beautifully on the outside. Using boneless skinless thighs in this healthy Asian chicken recipe keeps the texture rich and satisfying—no dry bites here.
Steamy Jasmine Rice Base
The aromatic, slightly floral quality of jasmine rice creates the ideal base for a Korean BBQ chicken and rice bowl. It soaks up that sticky glaze and gives you a warm, fluffy foundation to pile on all the toppings. If you’re watching your carbs or aiming for a low-calorie alternative, swap in cauliflower rice or brown rice for a fiber boost.
Color & Crunch
Sliced Persian cucumbers, shredded carrots, scallions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add vibrant color and crunch to each bite. These fresh veggies are more than just garnish—they cool the heat from the chicken, add contrast in texture, and bring fiber and nutrients to the bowl. For added crunch and protein, you could also toss in some roasted edamame or chopped cashews.
Optional Pickled Veggies
Quick-pickled carrots or daikon radish take just 15 minutes to make and completely elevate the bowl. That tangy, bright contrast cuts through the BBQ glaze and refreshes the palate. You can prep them while the chicken marinates. Just a simple soak of vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and salt turns your veggies into the tangy topper your Asian chicken bowl didn’t know it needed.
Best Served When
Weeknight Dinner Rush
You just wrapped up a long day, your stomach’s growling, and you need something fast. Enter the Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl—a flavor-packed, one-bowl wonder that’s ready in under 35 minutes. With minimal prep and bold, satisfying results, it turns your ordinary weeknight into a spicy, savory celebration. This is hands-down one of my favorite easy Korean chicken recipes for nights when I’m short on time but don’t want to compromise on taste.
Meal Prep for the Win
If you’re big on high-protein meal prep ideas, this one’s a lifesaver. The chicken holds up incredibly well in the fridge, and the bold BBQ flavor only gets deeper by day two. Keep the jasmine rice and marinated chicken separate from your toppings—like cucumbers, pickled carrots, and scallions—so they stay fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and assemble for a quick, balanced healthy Asian rice bowl that’s as delicious as it is convenient.
Dinner Guests
Looking to impress without breaking a sweat? This bold Korean chicken rice bowl is an absolute stunner on the plate. It’s colorful, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, but it comes together with pantry staples and no fancy techniques. Pair it with jasmine rice and a side of miso soup or kimchi, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality spread that’s secretly easy to pull off.
Healthy Comfort Craving
We all crave something cozy, but that doesn’t mean it has to be heavy. This high-protein chicken bowl delivers warmth, spice, and satisfaction—without the sluggish aftermath. With lean chicken thighs, fresh veggies, and gochujang for a flavor boost, you’re getting a balanced, energizing meal. According to Healthline, high-protein meals support muscle repair, increase satiety, and even boost metabolism—making this bowl a win for both flavor and function.
Flavor-Boosted Leftovers
Double the batch—you’ll thank yourself later. Leftover Korean BBQ chicken transforms beautifully into next-day meals. Try it rolled into a tortilla for a spicy fusion wrap, tucked into lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch, or chopped up in a stir-fry with leftover veggies. These bowls aren’t just a dinner solution—they’re a meal prep game changer for the entire week.
Pantry Rundown
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp gochujang
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes:
- Gochujang: Look for it in the international aisle or Asian market. Spicy, sweet, and complex.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is a good pick if you’re watching salt intake.
- Chicken Thighs: More forgiving than breasts. Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for grilling.
How It’s Done
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight for max flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Let rest, then slice.
Step 3: Build the Bowls
Scoop rice into bowls, top with sliced chicken, cucumbers, carrots, and green onions. Garnish with sesame seeds and drizzle with extra marinade (if cooked and safe).
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Pair with iced green tea or sparkling water with lime.
Derek’s Pro Tips
- Extra Sauce: Double the marinade and cook half separately for drizzling.
- Pickled Veggies: Quick-pickle carrots in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for 15 minutes.
- Rice Swap: Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
- Char = Flavor: Don’t be afraid of those deep caramelized bits on the chicken.
- Meal Prep Hack: Divide everything into containers but keep veggies and sauce separate until serving.
Make It Yours
🥦 Lighten It Up
Want a lighter take on the classic Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl? Start by swapping the jasmine rice for cauliflower rice or serving everything over a bed of crisp mixed greens. This not only slashes carbs but adds fiber and volume to your meal. For a leaner sauce, trade the honey in the marinade for a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup or stevia. Small adjustments like these can turn this into a low-carb Korean chicken bowl that still packs major flavor. According to NCBI, reducing sugar and carb intake can help support weight management and energy levels—without giving up comfort food altogether.
🌶️ Add Heat
If you live for a little fire in your food, go bold with your spice game. Add an extra spoonful of gochujang to the marinade, mix in some sriracha for that familiar chili-garlic punch, or top your bowl with crushed red pepper flakes. You can even drizzle chili crisp or sprinkle on Korean chili powder (gochugaru) for depth. These additions will help you turn this into a spicy Korean chicken rice bowl that hits just the right level of heat for your palate.
🌱 Vegetarian Version
You don’t have to give up the bold BBQ magic if you’re going meatless. This recipe adapts beautifully into a vegetarian Korean BBQ bowl—just sub in tofu, tempeh, or seared mushrooms. Marinate the plant-based protein the same way you would the chicken and either pan-sear, grill, or bake it to lock in the flavor. You’ll get all that sticky-sweet, garlicky glaze on a meat-free base that still delivers big-time on taste and texture.
🥚 Fusion Flair
Take your Korean BBQ chicken bowl in a whole new direction with some fun, flavor-packed twists. Top it with a jammy soft-boiled egg or a crispy fried egg to give it a bit of bibimbap-style flair. Add kimchi for fermented heat and gut-friendly probiotics, or toss on pickled jalapeños for a Mexican-Korean fusion kick. These layers turn the bowl into an international mash-up that’s perfect for adventurous eaters and fusion food fans.
🧒 Kids’ Version
Serving this to the younger crowd? No problem. Just dial down the heat and let the little ones customize their bowls. Use mild BBQ-style sauce or reduce the gochujang, and set out kid-friendly toppings like shredded carrots, cucumber sticks, sesame seeds, and plain rice. When kids can build their own DIY chicken rice bowl, they’re more likely to eat every bite—and love it.
Keep It Cozy
Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat the rice and chicken separately from the fresh toppings. The chicken can also be frozen in individual portions and thawed overnight in the fridge.
Morning Pairings 🌞
Round out your day with one of these:
- Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich
- Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken
Comfort Food Questions Answered
What is a Korean BBQ chicken bowl made of?
A traditional Korean BBQ chicken bowl typically includes gochujang-marinated grilled chicken, steamed jasmine rice, and a variety of fresh or quick-pickled vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and scallions. It’s finished with sesame seeds, sometimes a fried egg, and occasionally a drizzle of extra sauce. This Korean-inspired chicken rice bowl delivers bold flavor and comforting textures in every bite.
Is Korean BBQ chicken spicy?
Yes, it can be spicy—but it’s customizable. Gochujang, the fermented chili paste used in Korean cooking, brings a medium level of heat with a deep, savory flavor. To make a mild Korean BBQ chicken bowl, simply reduce the amount of gochujang or blend it with honey or Greek yogurt to mellow the spice.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. While boneless, skinless chicken thighs hold up best to high-heat cooking and stay juicy, you can use chicken breast if preferred. Just be cautious not to overcook it, as it can dry out faster. For leaner options, this swap works well in a high-protein Korean meal prep bowl.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! This bowl is excellent for make-ahead lunches or weeknight dinners. Store the grilled chicken and rice separately from fresh toppings to keep textures crisp. It’s a healthy Korean meal prep idea that saves time without compromising flavor.
What are the health benefits of gochujang?
Gochujang is low in fat, rich in umami, and contains capsaicin—a compound that may help boost metabolism. According to the WebMD, capsaicin may also support appetite control and fat oxidation. Just be mindful of sodium content when buying pre-made versions.
Can I freeze the chicken?
Definitely. The cooked marinated chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it into airtight containers or bags and thaw overnight in the fridge. Use it in bowls, wraps, or low-carb lettuce cups with Korean chicken.
How do I make the marinade less spicy?
If you’re heat-sensitive, adjust your marinade by adding more honey or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt to tone down the spiciness. This trick works well when serving to kids or spice-averse guests.
What rice works best for this bowl?
Jasmine rice offers a light, fragrant base, but you can also use short-grain white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a high-fiber Korean chicken bowl. Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative.
Can I make this a low-carb Korean BBQ chicken bowl?
Yes, and it’s easy to do. Swap the jasmine rice for cauliflower rice, skip the honey in the marinade, and load up on non-starchy vegetables. This turns your bowl into a low-carb high-protein Korean dinner.
Is Korean BBQ chicken gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and checking your gochujang label for gluten-containing ingredients. Always verify ingredient labels if cooking for someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity.
What vegetables go well in a Korean BBQ bowl?
Crisp, refreshing vegetables like cucumbers, shredded carrots, radishes, and purple cabbage add color and crunch. You can also include quick-pickled veggies, sautéed spinach, or even kimchi for a gut-healthy Korean-style bowl.
Can I use the marinade for other proteins?
Definitely. The gochujang BBQ marinade works well with tofu, shrimp, pork, or beef. It’s especially delicious on grilled tofu for a vegetarian Korean BBQ bowl recipe.
Final Stir
If you’re anything like me, once you taste how flavor-packed and easy this Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl is to whip up, it’ll earn a regular spot on your dinner rotation. This isn’t just about quick meals—it’s about maximum flavor and cozy comfort in a single bowl. You’ve got smoky grilled chicken, a punchy gochujang BBQ glaze, crunchy fresh toppings, and the freedom to build it your way. The best part? It reheats like a dream and delivers that same bold flavor again and again.
This recipe proves that healthy, balanced eating doesn’t have to be bland. Whether you’re watching sodium, skipping carbs, or looking for high-protein meals to power through the week, this bowl adapts to your lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. It’s comfort food with global flair—and it’s here to wake up your weekly meal plan.
Looking for more high-protein bowls or low-carb chicken recipes to add to your routine? Browse the full Comfort Food Daily lineup. There’s something crave-worthy waiting for you.
“Bowls of boldness, built your way—one bite and you’re hooked.” – Chef Derek
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Sweet, spicy, and loaded with flavor—this easy Korean BBQ chicken bowl is the weeknight dinner hero your kitchen needs!
