why make this recipe
Korean Chicken Breasts are a tasty and quick dish that is packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a delicious homemade meal. The easy marinade blends sweet and salty flavors that make the chicken juicy and tender. Plus, it takes minimal ingredients and just a little time to prepare, making it a great choice for any cook, no matter their experience level.
how to make Korean Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 thinly sliced scallions (white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the apple sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes or ideally, a few hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving.
how to serve Korean Chicken Breasts
Korean Chicken Breasts are best served hot, right off the grill or skillet. You can pair them with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. For added flavor, drizzle some extra soy sauce or sprinkle more sesame seeds on top. You can also serve it with kimchi or pickled vegetables for an authentic Korean touch.
how to store Korean Chicken Breasts
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. To reheat, just warm it up in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through.
tips to make Korean Chicken Breasts
- If you like more spice, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for better flavor. For the best results, try to marinate it for a few hours or overnight.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it tough.
variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by using different proteins like tofu or pork. Just adjust the marinade times according to the protein you choose. Additionally, feel free to add vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the grill for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly longer.
2. What if I don’t have apple sauce?
You can substitute apple sauce with honey or a mixture of water and a bit of sugar to achieve a similar sweetness.
3. Can I grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?
Absolutely! Grilling the chicken will give it a nice smoky flavor. Just make sure your grill is preheated before adding the chicken.