Description
A fiery, cheesy Korean favorite that perfectly balances heat and comfort. Korean Cheesy Buldak is the ultimate indulgence for spice lovers, topped with gooey mozzarella and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: 500g, cut into bite-sized pieces – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing marinade.
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): 2 tablespoons – Brings deep, spicy umami flavor.
- Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes): 1 tablespoon – Adds smoky heat and vibrant color.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons – For savory depth and balance.
- Honey: 1 tablespoon – A touch of sweetness to offset the spice.
- Garlic (minced): 4 cloves – Infuses the dish with aromatic intensity.
- Ginger (grated): 1 tablespoon – Adds zing and brightness.
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon – For nutty aroma and richness.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded – Melts beautifully over the spicy chicken.
- Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon – For searing the chicken.
- Green Onions (sliced): 2 stalks – Adds a fresh, mild sharpness for garnish.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: 1 teaspoon – A final crunch and nutty note.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). If using a broiler, make sure it’s set and ready.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chicken with gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sear until browned.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the cooked chicken into an oven-safe dish. Pour any extra sauce over it. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cook to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finishing Touches: Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes to get a golden crust on the cheese.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or lettuce wraps.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and stretch.
- For a milder version, reduce the gochugaru or use a cheese blend.
- Pairs beautifully with pickled radish or cucumber salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Korean Cheesy Buldak, spicy chicken, buldak recipe, Korean fire chicken, cheese buldak