Get ready to fire up your grill and prepare a mouthwatering Korean classic – grilled galbi chicken! This dish's origins trace back to the beloved beef short ribs, but Korean cooks have adapted the marinade and cooking techniques for chicken. The bold flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and aromatic spices create a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes. Marinate the chicken, then grill it to perfection for a charred, juicy result. Serve with steamed rice and kimchi for a truly authentic experience. You'll be amazed by the depth of flavor in this grilled galbi chicken – and there's more to discover about this captivating recipe.
Key Takeaways
- Marinate chicken in a savory-sweet soy sauce, brown sugar, and spice mixture for up to 24 hours to infuse it with robust Korean flavors.
- Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat, basting with the reserved marinade for a charred, caramelized exterior and juicy, tender interior.
- Monitor the chicken's internal temperature closely to ensure it is cooked through, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Serve the grilled galbi chicken with steamed rice, kimchi, and other traditional Korean side dishes to create a complete and authentic dining experience.
- Utilize leftover grilled chicken in various dishes, such as salads, wraps, or fried rice, to maximize its versatility and minimize food waste.
History
Galbi chicken, a beloved Korean dish, has its origins in the traditional preparation of beef short ribs known as galbi. Centuries ago, Korean cooks discovered that the same marinade and cooking techniques used for galbi could be applied to chicken, creating a delicious and versatile dish.
Over time, galbi chicken became a staple in Korean cuisine, enjoyed for its robust flavors and tender, juicy texture.
Today, galbi chicken remains a beloved family favorite, often served during festive gatherings and special occasions. The marinade, made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and aromatic spices, infuses the chicken with a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and umami notes.
The grilling process caramelizes the marinade, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown exterior that perfectly complements the juicy, tender meat within.
Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a new, flavorful dish to delight your family, grilled galbi chicken is sure to be a hit, capturing the essence of traditional Korean cuisine in every bite.
Recipe
Grilled Galbi Chicken is a delicious Korean-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of a classic galbi marinade with tender, juicy chicken. The combination of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes creates a truly memorable dining experience.
This recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings with friends and family. The marinade can be prepared in advance, making the actual cooking process quick and easy. Serve the grilled galbi chicken with steamed rice, kimchi, and your favorite Korean side dishes for a complete and authentic Korean meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
In a large resealable bag or bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they're fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Be sure to flip the chicken occasionally for even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- You can also broil the chicken in the oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, if you don't have access to a grill.
- Serve the grilled galbi chicken with steamed rice, kimchi, and your favorite Korean side dishes, such as spinach namul or pickled radish.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll marinate the chicken in a savory soy sauce mixture.
Then, you'll grill the chicken over medium-high heat, flipping it halfway through.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Soy Sauce Mixture
Next, prepare the soy sauce marinade. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and a teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk the ingredients until the sugar has fully dissolved.
Now, add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they're fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer you let it soak, the more delicious it will be!
Once the chicken is done marinating, you're ready to move on to the next step – grilling the galbi chicken to perfection. Get ready for some mouthwatering, tangy, and slightly sweet chicken that's sure to be a hit with your family and friends!
Step 2. Grill Chicken Over Medium-High Heat
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Once it's nice and hot, it's time to get grilling! Carefully place the marinated chicken pieces onto the grates. You'll hear that sizzle as the flavors start to really come alive.
For those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, consider incorporating a balanced diet while enjoying grilled dishes, as it can enhance overall wellness and nutritional guidelines.
Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's cooked through and the juices run clear. Keep an eye on it, turning the pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking. The natural sugars in the marinade will caramelize, giving the chicken a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Remember to baste the chicken with any leftover marinade during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add even more mouthwatering flavor.
Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, transfer it to a clean platter. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in every bite being juicy and delicious.
Step 3. Flip Chicken Halfway Through Grilling
After the chicken has been searing on the grill for 5-7 minutes, it's time to flip them over.
Grab your tongs and get ready for the next step in grilling perfection! Gently lift the chicken from the grates, being careful not to tear the delicate skin. Flip each piece over, ensuring the uncooked side is now facing the heat. You'll know it's time to flip when you see beautiful grill marks forming on the chicken.
Once flipped, let the chicken continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning. The internal temperature should reach 165°F before removing the chicken from the grill.
This ensures the juices have sealed in, leaving you with a tender, flavorful result. Resist the urge to press down on the chicken, as this can release those precious juices.
With a little patience and attention, you'll have perfectly grilled Galbi chicken ready to enjoy!
Step 4. Brush With Reserved Marinade
As the chicken finishes cooking, you'll want to brush it with the reserved marinade. This is the secret to getting that mouthwatering, sticky-sweet glaze that makes grilled galbi chicken so irresistible.
Simply take the leftover marinade you set aside earlier and use a basting brush to coat the chicken evenly.
Don't be shy – really lay it on thick! The more marinade you use, the better. This extra layer of flavor will caramelize on the grill, creating a shiny, glistening exterior that's simply divine.
Just be sure to brush the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, so the marinade has time to sizzle and become one with the meat.
When you're done, your chicken will be bursting with the bold, savory-sweet notes of garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. The caramelized glaze will coat the chicken beautifully, creating a delicious balance of umami and sweetness. Serve it over steamed jasmine rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce. This Vietnamese ginger chicken recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, with its fragrant combination of spices sure to please any palate.
Mmm, your taste buds are already tingling, aren't they? Get ready for the best grilled chicken of your life!
Step 5. Let Chicken Rest Before Serving
Once you've thoroughly coated the chicken in the reserved marinade, it's time to let it rest before serving. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
You'll want to transfer the grilled chicken to a clean platter and let it sit for about 5-7 minutes. This resting period helps the chicken stay moist and tender when you finally dig in.
While you wait, you can start preparing any side dishes or garnishes you plan to serve alongside the galbi chicken. Slice some fresh scallions, chop some cilantro, or whip up a quick dipping sauce.
The chicken will be worth the wait – the flavors will be perfectly balanced and the texture will be divine. Once the time is up, you can slice into that juicy, flavorful chicken and enjoy every bite.
Get ready for some serious grilled galbi goodness!
Final Thoughts
This recipe's final thoughts are that grilled galbi chicken is a delectable and adaptable dish.
It's perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or a cozy family dinner. The sweet and savory marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the grilling process adds a delightful charred edge.
What's more, this recipe is incredibly versatile – you can serve it with your favorite sides, or use the leftover chicken in salads, wraps, or even fried rice.
The best part? Grilled galbi chicken is a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love. Kids will delight in the tender, juicy meat, while adults will appreciate the complex flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for Different Serving Sizes?
To adjust the recipe for different serving sizes, simply scale the ingredient amounts up or down proportionally. For example, if you need to serve more people, double or triple the quantities accordingly.
What Are Some Suggested Side Dishes to Pair With Galbi Chicken?
When serving galbi chicken, you can pair it with classic Korean side dishes like kimchi, japchae, or steamed white rice. These sides will complement the bold, savory flavors of the chicken and create a well-balanced, authentic Korean meal.
Can I Substitute Other Types of Meat for the Chicken?
You can certainly substitute other types of meat for the chicken in this recipe. Beef, pork, or even tofu would work well with the bold flavors of the galbi marinade.
How Long Can the Marinated Chicken Be Stored Before Cooking?
You can store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. However, it's best to cook the chicken within 1-2 days for the optimal flavor and texture.
Is It Possible to Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
You can make the marinade ahead of time. Simply prepare the marinade, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it until you're ready to use it. This will save you time when it's time to marinate the chicken.
Ji-hoon is a skilled chef specializing in traditional and modern Korean cuisine. From savory bulgogi and kimchi to hearty stews and sizzling bibimbap, Ji-hoon’s recipes bring Korea’s bold, spicy, and umami-rich flavors to your kitchen. He focuses on authentic techniques and fresh ingredients that make Korean food so vibrant and flavorful.
