Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, but the flavors are anything but basic. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Marinade:

  • Soy sauce (½ cup): The salty, umami base of the marinade.
  • Gochujang (2 tbsp): Adds heat and depth of flavor.
  • Honey (2 tbsp): Balances the heat with sweetness.
  • Sesame oil (1 tbsp): For nuttiness and aroma.
  • Garlic (4 cloves, minced): A must-have in any savory dish.
  • Ginger (1 tbsp, grated): Adds warmth and zing.
  • Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): A hint of acidity to round out the flavors.

For the Chicken:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1 lb): Juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

For the Rice Bowl:

  • Cooked white or brown rice (4 cups): The base of your bowl.
  • Vegetables: Think shredded carrots, cucumber slices, or steamed broccoli.
  • Kimchi: A tangy, spicy Korean staple.
  • Soft-boiled eggs: Optional, but highly recommended for richness.
  • Green onions and sesame seeds: For garnish.

This may contain: a bowl filled with rice and meat covered in sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Bowl

Marinate the Chicken

How do you ensure your chicken is flavorful through and through? The secret is in the marinade.

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients.
  2. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours for maximum flavor.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, score the chicken lightly with a knife. This helps the marinade penetrate more quickly.

Cook the Chicken

Now comes the exciting part: cooking the chicken to perfection.

  1. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil.
  2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (but don’t toss it—we’ll use it later).
  3. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it’s beautifully charred and cooked through.

Want extra flavor? Brush the chicken with the leftover marinade during the last minute of cooking, but ensure it cooks fully to avoid any raw marinade.

Assemble Your Rice Bowl

This is where your creativity shines. Building the perfect rice bowl is all about balance.

  1. Start with a generous scoop of rice as your base.
  2. Layer on slices of your juicy, caramelized chicken.
  3. Add a variety of fresh and pickled vegetables for crunch and tanginess.
  4. Top it all off with a soft-boiled egg, a sprinkle of green onions, and sesame seeds.

A Meal to Savor

Making a Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl isn’t just about creating a delicious meal—it’s about experiencing the joy of cooking something vibrant and full of life. The combination of bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and satisfying textures makes this dish a standout option for any occasion.

So, why not give it a try? Your kitchen might just become your favorite Korean BBQ spot!

Leave a Comment