This oven-baked Korean chicken recipe offers a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Korean cuisine. Marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, the chicken is baked to perfection for a healthier alternative to frying.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Serve it with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
Overview of Korean Cuisine
Korean cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and vibrant dishes. The use of fresh ingredients, along with a variety of spices, creates a unique culinary experience.
One of the standout features of Korean cooking is the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, which can be seen in many traditional dishes.
Oven-baked Korean chicken is a perfect example of this balance, offering a crispy texture combined with a rich glaze that tantalizes the taste buds.
Marinade Magic
The marinade plays a pivotal role in achieving the depth of flavor in oven-baked Korean chicken.
A blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger creates a savory and slightly sweet profile that permeates the chicken.
Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight—ensures that each piece absorbs the delicious flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.
Cooking Techniques
Baking chicken in the oven is a healthier alternative to frying, allowing for a crispy exterior without the excess oil.
Preheating the oven to the right temperature is essential for achieving that golden brown color and crispy texture.
Arranging the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper helps to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, which acts as a perfect base to soak up the savory glaze.
Colorful stir-fried vegetables add a nutritious and visually appealing element to the meal.
Consider using a mix of bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for a vibrant plate that complements the chicken.
Garnishing for Presentation
Garnishing is key to elevating the dish’s presentation.
Sprinkling sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile.
Serving the chicken on a rustic wooden table setting adds to the overall aesthetic, making it an inviting dish for any gathering.
Nutritional Benefits
This oven-baked Korean chicken is not only delicious but also offers a balanced nutritional profile.
With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a good source of protein while keeping fat content reasonable.
Accompanied by rice and vegetables, this meal can be both satisfying and nutritious, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Crispy Oven-Baked Korean Chicken
This Korean chicken features tender pieces coated in a sweet and spicy marinade, baked until golden brown. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings or drumsticks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or bowl, pour the marinade over, and ensure all pieces are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice and vegetables.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g