Indulge in the delightful flavors of Marinated Grilled Chicken—a basic Korean recipe that will elevate your dining experience whether enjoyed at a dinner table or sizzling on a backyard barbecue. This lip-smacking dish features tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in a sweet soy blend, creating a harmonious balance of savory and sweet notes. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a regular star in your culinary rotation. The marinade can also be used for chicken drumsticks and breasts, making it a go-to option for various occasions. Get ready to master this delicious Korean grilled chicken and savor the joys of its enticing taste with every succulent bite.
INGREDIENTS:
- ¼ cup toasted sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 medium shallots, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 teaspoons mirin
- 2 teaspoons gochugaru
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 head red leaf lettuce, washed and dried with leaves separated, for serving
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced, for serving
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for serving
- 4 cups cooked white rice, preferably short-grain, for serving
- Lettuce Wrap Sauce (here)
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, shallots, ginger, garlic, mirin, and gochugaru with a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat a grill, or cook on a grill pan. Grill the chicken covered in foil for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once during cooking.
- Serve the grilled chicken with lettuce for wrapping, scallions, sesame seeds, rice, and Lettuce Wrap Sauce. To eat, put a small dollop of rice, sauce, and a piece of chicken inside a lettuce leaf.
YIELD:
- Serves 4
TIPS:
- Instead of serving the chicken with lettuce wraps, you can make Korean chicken tacos with this recipe. Serve with warm corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, musaengchae, and scallion kimchi.
In conclusion, Marinated Grilled Chicken, a basic Korean recipe, embodies the essence of delectable simplicity. The succulent boneless chicken thighs are tenderized to perfection by a sweet and savory soy-based marinade, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. This delightful dish is versatile enough to be served on any occasion, from cozy family dinners to lively backyard barbecues.
The key to the irresistible taste lies in the carefully crafted marinade that infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. The addition of mirin and gochugaru lends a subtle touch of sweetness and spice, elevating the dish to new heights of culinary satisfaction. As the marinated chicken sizzles on the grill, the mouthwatering aroma fills the air, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Marinated Grilled Chicken offers endless possibilities for presentation. Wrapping the tender chicken pieces in crisp red leaf lettuce adds a refreshing crunch to each bite. Scallions and toasted sesame seeds serve as the perfect garnish, enhancing both the visual appeal and the taste. A generous serving of short-grain white rice provides a delightful canvas for the flavorful chicken, while the Lettuce Wrap Sauce adds a zesty finishing touch.
Moreover, this recipe invites creativity, allowing you to explore various serving options. For a Tex-Mex twist, you can transform the grilled chicken into Korean chicken tacos, pairing it with warm corn tortillas, shredded cabbage, musaengchae, and scallion kimchi. The versatility of Marinated Grilled Chicken ensures that it can adapt to different tastes and preferences, making it a hit among both young and old.
