There’s something incredibly comforting about the bold, savory-sweet flavors of bulgogi. Traditionally made with beef, bulgogi is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its rich marinade and smoky char when cooked over an open flame. But have you ever tried making chicken bulgogi in an air fryer? This version is just as flavorful, incredibly easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.
With the help of the air fryer, you can achieve that delicious caramelization and juicy texture without needing a grill or a long marinade time. Whether you’re serving it over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or tucked into a warm tortilla for a fusion-style taco, this air fryer chicken bulgogi is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – The air fryer cuts down on cooking time while still delivering restaurant-quality results.
- Bold Korean Flavors – A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that make every bite irresistible.
- Healthier Alternative – Less oil is needed, making it a lighter option compared to pan-frying.
- Versatile – Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even in a sandwich for a creative twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken thighs – 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, sliced into thin strips
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup
- Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – 1 tbsp
- Sesame seeds – 1 tsp
- Green onions – 2, sliced
- Onion – ½ small, thinly sliced
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Cornstarch – 1 tsp (optional, for thickening the sauce)
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, gochujang, honey, black pepper, and sesame seeds. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well mixed.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs and sliced onions to the marinade. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a bit of sesame oil or cooking spray. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Once the chicken is golden brown and slightly caramelized, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Transfer the cooked chicken bulgogi to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Helpful Tips
- Use Chicken Thighs – They stay juicy and tender compared to chicken breasts, which can dry out.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor – Even 30 minutes will make a difference, but overnight marination takes it to another level.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
- Adjust Spice Level – If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the gochujang. For more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add a Smoky Touch – A drop of liquid smoke in the marinade can mimic the classic grilled bulgogi taste.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 35 minutes (including marination)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 47 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: High-Protein
Notes
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook this in a skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is caramelized and cooked through.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, kimchi, or a side of sautéed vegetables.
- You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, but adjust the cooking time to avoid dryness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
(Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! While chicken thighs provide a juicier texture, you can use chicken breast. Just reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to prevent dryness.
Is there a substitute for gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can use sriracha mixed with a bit of miso paste or just sriracha with a touch of honey. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still add a spicy-sweet kick.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes for good flavor, but if you have time, marinating overnight will make it even better.
Can I freeze marinated chicken bulgogi?
Absolutely! Place the marinated chicken in an airtight freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What can I serve with chicken bulgogi?
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
- Kimchi or pickled vegetables
- Korean-style potato salad
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked bulgogi for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Related Recipes
If you loved this air fryer chicken bulgogi, here are some other delicious dishes to try:
Conclusion
This air fryer chicken bulgogi is a game-changer for anyone who loves Korean flavors but wants a quick and easy way to prepare them at home. The air fryer gives you that perfect caramelization, and the marinade infuses every bite with a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a delicious, fuss-free recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Give it a try and let me know how you like it! What’s your favorite way to enjoy bulgogi?
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Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi
Description
There’s something incredibly comforting about the bold, savory-sweet flavors of bulgogi. Traditionally made with beef, bulgogi is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its rich marinade and smoky char when cooked over an open flame. But have you ever tried making chicken bulgogi in an air fryer? This version is just as flavorful, incredibly easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.
With the help of the air fryer, you can achieve that delicious caramelization and juicy texture without needing a grill or a long marinade time. Whether you’re serving it over rice, wrapped in lettuce, or tucked into a warm tortilla for a fusion-style taco, this air fryer chicken bulgogi is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs – 1.5 lbs, boneless and skinless, sliced into thin strips
- Soy sauce – ¼ cup
- Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil – 1 tbsp
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger – 1 tsp, grated
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – 1 tbsp
- Sesame seeds – 1 tsp
- Green onions – 2, sliced
- Onion – ½ small, thinly sliced
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Honey – 1 tbsp
- Cornstarch – 1 tsp (optional, for thickening the sauce)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, gochujang, honey, black pepper, and sesame seeds. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well mixed.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the thinly sliced chicken thighs and sliced onions to the marinade. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a bit of sesame oil or cooking spray. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Once the chicken is golden brown and slightly caramelized, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Transfer the cooked chicken bulgogi to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and extra sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Notes
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook this in a skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is caramelized and cooked through.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, kimchi, or a side of sautéed vegetables.
- You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, but adjust the cooking time to avoid dryness.