Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

Short Description

Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish that brings the rich, bold flavors of Korean barbecue straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. This dish features juicy chicken simmered in a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce infused with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and gochujang. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, making this a great set-it-and-forget-it meal.
• Bold and Authentic Flavors: A mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and gochujang gives the dish a deep umami taste with a hint of heat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even in tacos for a creative twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge or freezer for easy future meals.
• Healthier Than Takeout: Enjoy homemade Korean BBQ chicken with fresh ingredients and no additives.

Ingredients

chicken thighs or breasts
soy sauce
brown sugar
minced garlic
grateed ginger
gojujang (Korean chili paste)
rice vinegar
sesame oil
low-sodium chicken broth
scallions
sesame seeds
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chicken broth.
2. Place Chicken in Slow Cooker: Arrange the chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker in a single layer.
3. Pour Sauce Over Chicken: Ensure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving over rice, noodles, or inside lettuce wraps.

Variations

• Make it Spicier: Add extra gochujang or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Use Different Proteins: Swap chicken for beef, pork, or tofu for a twist on the recipe.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce instead of traditional rice.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6-7 hours
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work well but may be slightly less juicy than thighs. Adjust cooking time if needed.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of gochujang.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can cook it on the stovetop by simmering for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender.

What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, kimchi, or even a light cucumber salad pair well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it a great make-ahead meal.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use store-bought Korean BBQ sauce?

Yes, but making it from scratch gives you better control over the flavors and ingredients.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

Sriracha or a mix of miso paste and chili flakes can work in a pinch.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Using chicken thighs and keeping an eye on the cooking time will help prevent dryness.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the essence of Korean cuisine to your home. With minimal effort, you get a deliciously tender, saucy meal perfect for a variety of serving options. Whether for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is a must-try!

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