Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting textures, you have to try these Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce. This vibrant meal brings together tender, soy-and-sesame-marinated chicken, colorful stir-fried vegetables, and a luxuriously spicy-sweet gochujang cream sauce that takes every bite to the next level. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, these bowls deliver a harmonious balance of smoky, creamy, and umami flavors that feel both familiar and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce lies in a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each component contributes uniquely—from the savory depth of soy sauce to the creamy heat of gochujang sauce, right down to the fresh crunch of mixed vegetables that brighten every bite.

• 2 cups cooked rice: This serves as the comforting, neutral base that soaks up all the fantastic flavors.
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced: The lean protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully and cooks up tender.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami boost that creates the backbone of the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses the chicken with a nutty aroma and rich flavor that’s signature in Korean dishes.
• 1 tablespoon gochujang: This Korean chili paste brings the signature spicy, sweet, and savory punch for the cream sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Balances out the heat from the gochujang, making the sauce lusciously smooth.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a subtle sweetness that rounds off the sauce perfectly.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli): Provides vibrant color, crunch, and freshness to the bowl.
• 2 green onions, chopped: A fresh, mild onion garnish that brings brightness and texture.
• Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds a delicate crunch and toasty flavor as a finishing touch.

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the sliced chicken breasts with soy sauce and sesame oil in a bowl. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. This simple marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with that irresistible savory and nutty flavor, laying the perfect foundation for the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked through and lightly caramelized. The sesame oil helps it develop a beautiful golden crust while locking in juicy tenderness. This step ensures the chicken has both flavor and the perfect texture for your bowls.

Step 3: Prepare the Gochujang Cream Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together gochujang, heavy cream, and honey in a separate bowl. This sauce is the star of the dish—it balances heat and sweetness with creamy richness, making every bite irresistibly flavorful.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, toss in your mixed vegetables and stir-fry until they’re tender but still crisp. The vibrant colors and fresh crunch add essential contrast and nutrition, elevating the bowls from simple to stunning.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Place cooked rice into bowls, then layer with the juicy chicken and colorful vegetables. Generously drizzle the gochujang cream sauce over the top to marry all the flavors beautifully. Don’t forget the finishing touches!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the finished bowls. These garnishes add pops of color, fresh bursts of flavor, and a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Side Dishes

Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce stand well on their own but pairing them with light, crisp sides like a simple cucumber salad, kimchi, or steamed edamame will bring refreshing contrasts and authentic Korean vibes to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the bowls in hollowed-out bell peppers or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You might also try layering ingredients in a clear glass jar for an eye-catching lunch-on-the-go with all the flavors intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to store the sauce separately if possible to keep its creamy texture intact.

Freezing

The cooked chicken and vegetables freeze well, but the cream sauce can separate after thawing. It’s best to freeze the components separately and combine them fresh for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat, then stir in the gochujang cream sauce just before serving. This method keeps the chicken juicy and the sauce smooth without breaking.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for Mexican BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce?

Absolutely! Thighs or tenders work great and can offer extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.

Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang has a moderate heat level with a complex sweet and savory taste. If you prefer milder flavors, start with less and adjust to your spice tolerance.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free option?

Yes, coconut cream or any thick non-dairy cream can be used to keep the sauce creamy while accommodating dietary preferences.

What vegetables work best in this dish?

Bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli are classics, but feel free to add snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time for a meal prep plan?

Definitely! Marinate the chicken and chop vegetables the day before. Cook everything fresh on the day you plan to eat for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to enjoy a dinner that’s bursting with warmth, spice, and vibrant textures, Korean BBQ Chicken Bowls with Gochujang Cream Sauce are a must-make. This dish hits all the right notes from savory marinade to creamy sauce with just the right kick, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen as it is in mine. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to come back for seconds every time.

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