Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry : A Flavor-Packed, Easy Asian Stir Fry Recipe

If you’re craving a bold, flavorful, and quick meal, Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry is the perfect solution. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a spicy, tangy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time. Whether you’re looking for easy Asian stir fry recipes or spicy stir fry chicken, this recipe will become your go-to for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option.

The rich, umami-filled sauce and perfectly cooked chicken make this Korean stir fry chicken recipe incredibly tasty, while the vegetables add crunch and freshness. Serve it over a bed of easy Asian chicken and rice, and you’ve got a balanced, complete meal that’s full of flavor and texture.

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Why You’ll Love Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

What makes this Korean spicy chicken stir fry stand out? It’s all about the balance of flavors: the savory depth of soy sauce, the heat from gochujang (Korean chili paste), and the subtle sweetness from honey. This sauce clings perfectly to the chicken and vegetables, creating a dish that’s not only full of flavor but also easy to adjust to your spice level.

Whether you prefer it mild or fiery, you can control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili paste or adding extra seasonings. Plus, it’s an easy one-pan recipe, meaning cleanup is a breeze. If you enjoy stir fry wok recipes or love Korean stir fry recipes, this dish will quickly become a staple in your cooking routine.

Who This Recipe Is For

This Korean spicy chicken stir fry is perfect for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re a Korean stir fry chicken enthusiast or just looking to spice up your typical stir fry, this recipe fits the bill.

It’s also great for people who enjoy spicy stir fry chicken or those looking for a healthier dinner option that’s packed with vegetables and lean protein. If you’re someone who enjoys easy Asian chicken and rice recipes, this stir fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice or even quinoa for a nutritious twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Vegetables:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

For the Spicy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes and Variations

• Gochujang: This is the key ingredient that gives the dish its signature heat and umami flavor. If you can’t find gochujang, try substituting with a mixture of chili paste and a touch of soy sauce, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
• Vegetable options: Feel free to use other vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or zucchini if you prefer. This recipe is super flexible when it comes to veggies.
• Protein variations: If you don’t want chicken, you can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian version or beef for a different protein option.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large wok or skillet
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Small bowl (for mixing sauce)
• Serving plate

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping all the ingredients. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop the vegetables, and mince the garlic and ginger. Set everything aside so you’re ready to cook quickly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor) in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Add water to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, tossing everything to coat evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the stir fry over steamed rice or quinoa, and garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or green onions.

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Pro Tips for the Best Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

• Don’t overcook the chicken: For tender chicken, be sure not to overcook it. It should be golden on the outside but juicy on the inside.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang or add a touch of honey for sweetness to balance the heat.
• Use high heat: Stir-fry on high heat to achieve the signature crispness of stir-fried vegetables and meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too much chicken or vegetables at once, they’ll steam rather than stir-fry. Cook in batches if necessary to get that perfect stir-fry texture.
• Not adjusting the sauce: Taste the sauce before adding it to the stir fry. If it’s too salty, add a little more honey or vinegar to balance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Korean spicy chicken stir fry pairs wonderfully with garlic rice, steamed jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light vegetable stir fry or a cucumber salad for extra crunch and freshness.

Creative Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve the stir fry on a large platter or individual bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

• Add heat: If you love spicy food, add a dash of chili oil or fresh sliced chili peppers to really amp up the heat.
• Add more veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms to make the stir fry even more colorful and nutritious.
• Peanut sauce: For a richer sauce, add a spoonful of peanut butter to the mix and whisk until smooth.

How to Store and Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, though the texture may be a bit softer.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken, veggies, and sauce in advance, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply stir-fry everything together and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?
Yes! You can use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken for a different variation. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different proteins.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari) to make this dish gluten-free. Check the gochujang ingredients, as some versions may contain gluten.

Final Thoughts: Why Korean Spicy Chicken Stir Fry Is a Keeper

This Korean spicy chicken stir fry is an easy, flavorful dish that comes together in a flash. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and bold, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to different tastes. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or to impress guests, this dish will always hit the spot. Try it today and enjoy the perfect combination of spice, sweetness, and umami in every bite!

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