Hey there, flavor lovers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s going to spice up your mealtime routine in the best possible way. Imagine juicy chicken tenders coated in a bold and spicy gochujang glaze—talk about an explosion of flavors! Trust me, this one’s a must-try.
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Why You’ll Love Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
This isn’t just another chicken tender dish—it’s versatile, budget-friendly, quick, customizable, and crowd-pleasing. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving these spicy delights at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly
Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy
Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable
Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
Here’s the magic of these spicy chicken tenders—they’re made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Chicken Tenders: The star of the show. Juicy and tender chicken tenders are marinated to perfection and then cooked until golden brown. Every bite will be bursting with flavor!
Gochujang Paste: The secret ingredient that adds heat and depth. This Korean chili paste brings a unique spiciness and umami flavor to the dish. A little goes a long way!
Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and enhances the overall taste. Low-sodium soy sauce works well if you prefer to control the salt content.
Honey: Balances out the spiciness with a touch of sweetness. Use high-quality honey for the best results.
Garlic: Aromatic garlic infuses the dish with warmth and depth. Just a few cloves will do the trick.
Ginger: Adds a zesty kick and complements the other flavors beautifully. Freshly grated ginger works best.
Cornstarch: Helps create a crispy coating on the chicken tenders. Lightly dusting the chicken with cornstarch before frying ensures a perfect texture.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken tenders, gochujang paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum flavor). This step allows the chicken to absorb all those amazing flavors.
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by preheating your pan over medium-high heat. This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the right texture. Preheating is a small but essential step that sets the stage for success.
Prepare the Chicken
Dust the marinated chicken tenders lightly with cornstarch. This step helps create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
Cook the Chicken
Add some oil to your preheated pan and cook the chicken tenders until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The aroma filling your kitchen will make your mouth water!
Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine gochujang paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens slightly. This step creates the spicy and sweet glaze that makes these chicken tenders irresistible.
Glaze the Chicken
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, brush them generously with the glaze. Make sure every piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor. Let the glaze caramelize slightly on the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy! Whether paired with a side salad or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.
How to Serve Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads
Pair them with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread
Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone
Sometimes, these chicken tenders are hearty enough to enjoy on their own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.
Presentation matters too! Serving the dish in a beautifully arranged platter can elevate the dining experience. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of lime juice for that extra pop.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead
Save time by marinating the chicken the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
Spice It Up
Experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.
Dietary Adjustments
If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap ingredients like regular flour for gluten-free alternatives or dairy products for plant-based options.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
Double the Batch
This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken tenders with thighs?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead recipe. Prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it just before serving.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Doubling the recipe works well, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q7: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
A7: Sure thing! Maple syrup will add a different sweetness but work just fine in this dish.
Q8: Is there a vegan alternative for chicken?
A8: Yes, you can use tofu or tempeh as a vegan alternative. Keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly but will still taste great.
Q9: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A9: Absolutely! Adding sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini will add a nice texture and extra flavor to the dish.
Q10: Can I use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce?
A10: Yes, coconut aminos can be used as a soy-free alternative. It will change the flavor slightly but still work well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my friends—a delicious and easy-to-make Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders that’s bound to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy weekend dinner or preparing for a bustling weekday evening, this dish has got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that pan, and get ready to savor every bite. Happy cooking!
Print
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
These Spicy Gochujang Chicken Tenders are the perfect way to add some heat and flavor to your weeknight dinner or weekend feast. With a crispy coating and a rich, spicy sauce, they’re a crowd-pleaser for sure
Ingredients
- 2 lbs organic chicken breast, sliced lengthwise into strips
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
- 2 teaspoons black pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley, divided
- 1 teaspoon onion powder, divided
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or seasoned toasted panko bread crumbs)
- 1/4 cup organic all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Japanese BBQ sauce (or regular BBQ sauce)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons raw honey (or pure maple syrup)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top for crispiness.
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the chicken strips with 1 teaspoon of each: sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried parsley. Add the BBQ sauce and toss to coat the chicken. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to marinate.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix in the honey. Whisk until combined.
- Make the Coating: In a ziplock bag, combine the crushed cornflakes, breadcrumbs, flour, and remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried parsley. Shake until well mixed.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture (shaking off excess) and then place it into the ziplock bag with the coating mixture. Shake to coat. Arrange the coated strips on the prepared baking sheet, about an inch apart. Repeat for all chicken strips. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and crispy.
- Make the Sauce: In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Stir in the Gochujang sauce and bring to a boil. Add the baked chicken tenders and toss to coat them in the sauce. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Serve the tenders with sesame seeds on top, if desired. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce, or on top of a salad, sandwich, taco, or pizza!
Notes
- The honey in the egg mixture adds a slight sweetness to balance the heat of the Gochujang sauce.
- You can use regular BBQ sauce if you don’t have Japanese BBQ sauce.
- For extra crunch, try adding some crushed peanuts as a garnish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg