Irresistible Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe for Perfect Grilling

Name: Korean BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 4 green onions, chopped; 2 tbsp sesame oil (toasted preferred); 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

November 23, 2025

Updated:

November 23, 2025

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The sizzling sound of Korean BBQ chicken hitting the grill is music to my ears. The aroma wafts through the air, inviting everyone within a three-mile radius to join the feast. Picture juicy, tender pieces of chicken glazed with a sweet and savory marinade that dances on your taste buds like a joyful K-pop band at a concert.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I made it for friends during a summer gathering. Their faces lit up with every bite, and laughter filled the air as we shared stories and devoured plate after plate of this delectable delight. Whether it’s a sunny Sunday picnic or a cozy weeknight dinner, Korean BBQ chicken always brings people together in celebration of good flavors and great company.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Korean BBQ chicken is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Its flavor profile bursts with sweet, savory, and smoky notes that tantalize your taste buds
The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering

Versatile enough to grill, bake, or stir-fry, this dish suits any cooking style!

I recall one memorable occasion when my friend declared it “the best thing ever” while licking his fingers clean—it’s hard to top that kind of feedback!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are ideal because they stay juicy and tender during cooking; plus, they’re packed with flavor.

Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves add aromatic depth; choose firm ones for the best flavor.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch that brightens up each bite; look for vibrant green tops.
Sesame Oil: A drizzle brings nutty richness; opt for toasted sesame oil for more intense flavor.

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to balance flavors without over-salting your dish.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener caramelizes beautifully when grilled; feel free to adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Rice Vinegar: A splash adds brightness; use unseasoned rice vinegar if you can find it.

Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): For those who like a little heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance!

For the Sauce:

Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that glossy glaze we all love; local honey works wonders here!
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds for garnish not only provide crunch but also elevate visual appeal—don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely on the grill.

Create the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochugaru until smooth. This marinade will be your flavor bomb!

Add Chicken to Marinade: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour in the marinade and massage it into the meat—yes, get hands-on! Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Heat Up Your Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). If using an oven, set it to broil while you prepare for grilling perfection.

Grill to Perfection!: Place marinated chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred—a visual feast!

Add Finishing Touches!: Once cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F), remove from heat and let rest briefly. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy this delightful Korean BBQ chicken at home or share it with friends—either way, everyone will be asking for seconds!

You Must Know

This Korean BBQ chicken recipe is loaded with flavor and perfect for summer grilling

Pair it with rice or lettuce wraps for a delightful meal
The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also creates a delicious caramelized crust when grilled

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken thighs first to lock in juices, then finish cooking them on indirect heat for perfect tenderness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap honey for brown sugar or add sesame oil for an extra flavor boost.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Marinating overnight gives the chicken deeper flavor; patience pays off!

Always let your chicken rest after cooking for juiciness
Use bone-in thighs for even more flavor

There was a time when my friends raved about my Korean BBQ chicken at a backyard gathering, and I thought they were just being nice. Turns out, they were serious!

FAQs

FAQ

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for full flavor infusion.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts or drumsticks work great too; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Korean BBQ chicken?

Serve it with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.

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