Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Absolutely. Just be mindful they can dry out faster, so check for doneness around the 12–15 minute mark if air frying.

What’s a good side dish for this?

Steamed jasmine rice, roasted broccoli, or a crunchy Asian-style slaw would all be perfect.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep that slight crisp.

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken - Chicken magic recipes

Description

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a bold, sweet, and spicy Korean-inspired dish made with tender chicken thighs tossed in a finger-licking glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this quick and flavorful recipe pairs beautifully with rice and crisp cucumbers.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (skin-on or skinless)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for baking)

For the Sticky Honey Gochujang Glaze:

2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (optional, for thickening)

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds
Sliced green onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. For baking, lightly coat with oil for a crispier texture.
Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place chicken in a single layer and cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Bake chicken for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully cooked and golden.
Glaze the Chicken:
In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the glaze for 2–3 minutes until slightly thick. For a thicker consistency, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook another minute. Toss or brush glaze over cooked chicken.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice with cucumber slices or roasted veggies.

Notes

Gochujang spice levels can vary—taste first and adjust to your preference.
This recipe also works well with boneless chicken breasts or tenders, just reduce cook time.
Leftovers reheat beautifully in the air fryer or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Main dish
Method: Air Fryer or Oven
Cuisine: Korean-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 370 kcal
Sugar: 11 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg