Description
Buldak, also known as Korean Fire Chicken, is a popular and fiery dish that has gained international recognition for its intense spiciness and bold flavors. The name “Buldak” comes from the Korean words “bul” (불), meaning fire, and “dak” (닭), meaning chicken. This dish is a favorite among spice lovers and is often enjoyed with melted cheese to balance out the heat.
Ingredients
The Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
The Marinade & Sauce:
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
- 1 tbsp rice wine (mirin or sake)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup water or chicken broth
Toppings & Garnishes:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 green onions (chopped)
Instructions
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are preferred over chicken breast as they remain juicy and tender when cooked. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice wine, black pepper, salt, and water (or chicken broth). Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined into a thick sauce.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb. For the best results, marinate for 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Heat a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade sauce. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
If you want a cheesy Buldak, transfer the cooked chicken to an oven-safe dish or keep it in the pan. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Place under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, or cover with a lid on low heat, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the cheese is melted, remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Best Chicken Cut: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best as they remain juicy and absorb the marinade well.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If the dish is too spicy, adding cheese or serving with rice helps mellow the heat.
- Balancing Flavors: A hint of sweetness (honey or sugar) balances out the extreme spiciness.
- Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or chicken broth while cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 35g