Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl (Bold, Spicy & Comfort-Fueled Flavor in Every Bite)
Derek
This Korean BBQ Chicken Bowl combines gochujang-marinated grilled chicken with jasmine rice, crunchy pickled vegetables, and a punchy BBQ glaze. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and fresh—all in one bowl. Easy to prep, full of bold Korean-inspired flavor, and totally customizable for low-carb, high-protein, or gluten-free needs. A fast, feel-good dinner that’s meal prep–friendly and family-approved.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Course Dinner
Cuisine Korean-Inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal
- 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
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.
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.Keyword easy korean chicken rice bowl, gluten-free korean chicken bowl, gochujang chicken bowl, healthy korean bbq dinner, high protein asian chicken recipe, korean bbq chicken bowl recipe, low carb korean chicken bowl, spicy korean chicken meal prep
