Name: Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds (700g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into 1.5-inch pieces; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1/2 cup chicken broth or water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for slurry); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish; Sliced green onions, for garnish; Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary revelation that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become a new staple in your recipe repertoire. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces, lovingly coated in a rich, glossy glaze that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a hint of fiery warmth. This dish isn’t just about feeding your hunger; it’s about delighting your senses with an unforgettable flavor profile.

At the heart of this extraordinary recipe lies Gochujang, the vibrant and complex Korean fermented chili paste. Revered in Korean cuisine for its depth of flavor, Gochujang brings a unique, nuanced heat that is beautifully tempered by the golden sweetness of honey. This creates an irresistible harmony, resulting in a sauce that clings to every piece of chicken, offering a symphony of tastes in each bite. People consistently fall in love with this dish not only for its incredible taste and the delightful sticky texture but also for its surprising ease of preparation, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Get ready to experience the magic of this incredible Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken – a dish that embodies comfort, excitement, and truly exceptional flavor.

Ingredients:

Creating this incredible Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken dish starts with selecting the freshest and best ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need to gather:

For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces. I personally find chicken thighs yield the most tender and flavorful results for this recipe, holding up beautifully to the rich sauce. If you prefer breasts, just be mindful not to overcook them to keep them juicy.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch or all-purpose flour. This is our secret weapon for achieving that perfectly crisp exterior on the chicken, which then becomes wonderfully coated and sticky with our amazing sauce.
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil) for cooking. We need an oil with a high smoke point that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of our dish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Always season your chicken before cooking!
For the Marinade (Optional, but highly recommended for deeper flavor):
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce. Using low-sodium gives us more control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger. Fresh ginger adds a beautiful zing and aromatic depth that truly elevates the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves). Garlic is non-negotiable for that foundational savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Just a touch adds an incredible nutty aroma to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon mirin (sweet rice wine). This contributes a subtle sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.
For the Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste). This is the star of our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken! It provides the iconic spicy, savory, and slightly sweet base for our sauce. Don’t be shy with it!
- 1/4 cup honey. This balances the gochujang’s heat and gives us that irresistible sticky glaze. Feel free to adjust slightly to your sweetness preference.
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce. Again, low-sodium for better control.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar. A touch of acidity brightens up the rich sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 2-3 cloves). More garlic, because why not? It truly makes the sauce sing.
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger. Just like in the marinade, fresh ginger is key for that vibrant, warm spice.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil. A little more sesame oil to tie all the flavors together in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water. This helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency, allowing it to coat the chicken beautifully without being too thick.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (slurry). This will be used at the end to thicken our sauce to that luscious, sticky consistency we’re aiming for.
For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended):
- Toasted sesame seeds. Adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
- Thinly sliced green onions (scallions). Provides a fresh, pungent counterpoint to the rich sauce.
- A drizzle of extra sesame oil. For that final aromatic flourish.

Preparing the Chicken:

The foundation of our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken lies in perfectly prepared chicken. This phase ensures your chicken is tender, flavorful, and ready to absorb all the delicious sauce.

Prepare the Chicken: If using chicken thighs, trim any excess fat. If using breasts, you might want to cut them into slightly larger pieces to prevent them from drying out during cooking. Cut your chosen chicken into uniform 1.5-inch pieces. Uniformity is key here for even cooking, ensuring every bite is just as tender as the last.
Marinate the Chicken (Optional, but Recommended): In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with the marinade ingredients: 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon mirin. Toss everything together really well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for 1-4 hours. This step deeply infuses the chicken with flavor, making our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken even more irresistible. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinade, but trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes of prep.
Pat Dry and Season: Once marinated, or if you skipped the marinade, remove the chicken from the bowl (no need to rinse) and pat the pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step! Excess moisture prevents the chicken from browning nicely and getting crispy. Season the chicken pieces all over with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Dredge the Chicken: Place the 1/4 cup of cornstarch (or flour) in a shallow dish or a Ziploc bag. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and toss or shake to coat each piece evenly. Make sure there’s a light, even dusting of cornstarch all over. This thin coating is what gives us that beautiful crispy crust once cooked, which then acts as a perfect vehicle for soaking up our amazing Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce. Shake off any excess cornstarch. We want a light coating, not a thick batter.

Crafting the Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce:

This is where the magic truly happens! Our signature Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce is a symphony of sweet, spicy, savory, and tangy notes that will coat every piece of chicken in a glorious, glistening glaze.

Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: 1/4 cup gochujang, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water).
Ensure Smoothness: Whisk vigorously until the gochujang paste is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste a tiny bit and adjust to your liking – if you prefer it spicier, add a bit more gochujang. If you like it sweeter, a touch more honey. This sauce is incredibly versatile and forgiving.
Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small separate bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. This is your cornstarch slurry, and it will be added at the end to thicken our sauce to that perfect, glossy, sticky consistency. Set it aside for now.
Understand Gochujang: For those new to gochujang, it’s a fundamental Korean fermented chili paste. It’s not just about heat; it offers a complex depth of flavor – spicy, savory, subtly sweet, and wonderfully umami. The quality of your gochujang can really influence the final taste of your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken, so I recommend finding a good quality brand from an Asian grocery store or the international aisle of your supermarket. It’s worth the hunt!

Cooking the Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken:

Now it’s time to bring everything together and create that irresistible Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken! This phase involves cooking the chicken to golden perfection and then coating it generously with our delectable sauce.

Heat the Pan: Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan (like cast iron) over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering but not smoking. A good hot pan is essential for getting a beautiful sear on the chicken.
Cook the Chicken in Batches: Carefully add the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan! Overcrowding will lower the pan’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of crisp, which we absolutely do not want for our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken. You’ll likely need to do this in two or three batches.
Sear for Golden Crispiness: Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden brown and crispy all over. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Once golden, transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken, adding a little more oil if necessary. The goal here is a perfectly cooked, crispy piece of chicken that will hold up to our sticky sauce.
Deglaze the Pan (Optional, but Recommended): Once all the chicken is cooked and removed, if there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, you can quickly deglaze it. Add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to the hot pan and scrape up any flavorful bits with a wooden spoon. This adds even more depth to our sauce.
Simmer the Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce mixture into the same skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You’ll notice it will start to thicken slightly on its own.
Thicken the Sauce: Give your cornstarch slurry a quick whisk again (it might have settled) and slowly pour it into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens to a glossy, syrupy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This should only take about 1-2 minutes. The sauce will become wonderfully sticky and vibrant – exactly what we want for our Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken!
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return all the cooked, crispy chicken pieces to the skillet with the thickened Sticky Honey Gochujang Sauce. Toss the chicken gently but thoroughly, ensuring every single piece is fully coated in that luscious, sticky glaze. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough for the chicken to heat through and for the sauce to cling beautifully.
A Note on Doneness for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken:

Using a meat thermometer is always the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through. For chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). However, for this dish, since the chicken is cut into small pieces and cooked twice (searing then simmering in sauce), it’s less likely to be undercooked, but still good to keep in mind. Overcooking, especially chicken breast, can make it dry, so keep an eye on it during the searing phase.

Serving Suggestions and Garnish:

Your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! Here are some ideas to complete your meal and make it truly special.

Garnish and Serve Immediately: Transfer the Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken to a serving platter. For that final touch of freshness and texture, generously sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. A final drizzle of sesame oil can also enhance the aroma.
Perfect Pairings: This dish truly shines when served alongside a bowl of fluffy, steaming white rice or brown rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that amazing sticky sauce. For a balanced meal, consider adding some steamed or stir-fried vegetables on the side, like broccoli, asparagus, or bok choy. A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette would also offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Leftovers and Reheating: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store the Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave, but for best results and to maintain some crispness, I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven/air fryer until warmed through. You might need to add a tiny splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Customization Ideas: Feel free to experiment with the spice level. If you love a serious kick, add a pinch of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) along with the gochujang. For extra zing, a squeeze of fresh lime juice at the very end can brighten things up beautifully. You could also try adding some bell peppers or snap peas to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking with the chicken for added vegetables and texture.
Why This Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a Winner:

This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with accessible ingredients. The combination of the crispy chicken and the unbelievably sticky, sweet, and spicy sauce makes for an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or for entertaining guests. It’s a dish that truly excites the taste buds and showcases the wonderful versatility of Korean-inspired flavors. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the creation of a dish that I truly believe will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a symphony of captivating flavors – the perfect sweet heat from the gochujang and honey, complemented by a deep, savory richness from soy and garlic, all lovingly coating tender chicken in a gloriously sticky, vibrant glaze. It’s incredibly satisfying, surprisingly straightforward to master, and destined to be a memorable part of your home-cooked meals. Every component plays its part in crafting a harmonious and utterly delicious experience that I am incredibly proud to share with you.

What truly makes this particular recipe a standout in a sea of culinary options? It’s the exquisite balance achieved. That perfect blend of sweet, savory, and just the right amount of spicy hits all the right notes, ensuring every bite is an absolute delight, leaving you craving the next. You get the authentic, subtle fermented tang and the invigorating heat of gochujang, beautifully mellowed and sweetened by golden, luscious honey. This combination creates a truly irresistible glaze that clings tenaciously to every piece of chicken, guaranteeing maximum flavor saturation with each glorious mouthful. This isn’t merely dinner; it’s an immersive culinary experience. The dish’s vibrant color and the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen are enough to excite anyone, but the taste, oh, the taste is what truly elevates this creation to legendary status in my personal culinary playbook. I’ve found that the deceptively simple preparation method entirely belies the complex, incredibly rewarding, and deeply satisfying flavors you ultimately achieve. This is genuinely a recipe designed to impress with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight yet undeniably elegant enough for special entertaining. I’m genuinely passionate about the sheer joy this dish brings to the table, and I wholeheartedly believe it will swiftly become a much-loved item in your own home cooking repertoire. This specific rendition of Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken brilliantly strikes that elusive balance that makes it universally appealing and incredibly hard to resist.

Beyond its remarkable and unforgettable flavor profile, the texture of this dish is a key player in its appeal. That signature “sticky” quality isn’t just for show; it’s what encapsulates the rich, flavorful sauce, ensuring it doesn’t just sit on the plate but rather adheres perfectly to every tender morsel of chicken. This meticulous cling makes for a much more immersive, flavorful, and deeply satisfying eating experience. It’s truly a testament to how humble, simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully and with a dash of passion, can transcend expectations and create something truly spectacular. The inherent versatility of this dish also contributes significantly to its must-try status. It’s remarkably adaptable, fitting seamlessly into various meal plans and dietary preferences with just a few minor tweaks or substitutions, proving its worth as a flexible and dependable option.

Now, let’s talk about completing this phenomenal meal. For serving, my absolute favorite way to enjoy this delectable chicken is alongside a generous helping of fluffy white rice, such as aromatic jasmine or basmati, which eagerly soaks up every last drop of that incredible, glossy sauce. But please, don’t stop there! Steamed greens like vibrant broccoli florets or quickly blanched bok choy make a fantastic, fresh counterpoint, offering a lovely textural contrast and a welcome boost of nutrients. A simple side of quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes can also provide a wonderfully refreshing, tangy crunch that beautifully cuts through the richness of the chicken. For those who enjoy a bit more visual flair and an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions not only adds aesthetic appeal but also a delightful nutty essence and a mild, fresh oniony bite. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, consider serving it with some cold Korean noodles (perhaps a simple bibim-guksu style, just without the extra sauce) or even nestled into crisp, fresh lettuce wraps for a lighter, hand-held, and immensely enjoyable option.

The true beauty of this recipe truly lies in its incredible flexibility and adaptability. While succulent chicken thighs are my preferred cut for their inherent juiciness and rich flavor, feel absolutely free to experiment with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into convenient bite-sized pieces, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure perfect tenderness. If you’re looking to explore different proteins, this exquisite sauce is equally spectacular when paired with plump shrimp, crispy pan-fried tofu, or even thinly sliced pork tenderloin. For a wonderfully satisfying vegetarian take, cubed firm tofu or hearty tempeh, properly pressed and then pan-fried until beautifully golden, would absorb the glorious glaze splendidly. Want to significantly amp up the spice level? A generous pinch of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) or a little extra gochujang will certainly do the trick! Prefer it milder? Simply dial back the gochujang slightly and increase the amount of sweet honey. You can also effortlessly toss in some vibrant, colorful vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers, crisp snap peas, or sweet onions during the last few minutes of cooking for an all-in-one, convenient skillet meal. The possibilities for customization are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this fantastic recipe precisely to your personal taste preferences and whatever ingredients you happen to have readily available.

So, what are you waiting for? I genuinely hope I’ve passionately convinced you to give this phenomenal recipe a try very soon. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt invitation to experience a burst of dynamic, unforgettable flavors that will undoubtedly leave you craving more and eager to make it again. Trust me, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and an absolutely delightful way to brighten any mealtime, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. Once you’ve successfully whipped up your very own batch of this delightful chicken, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear about your experience! Did you meticulously stick to my recipe, or did you courageously put your own unique, creative spin on it? Please, share all your culinary adventures and any delicious variations you came up with in the comments section below. Your invaluable feedback, inspiring creativity, and shared experiences truly inspire me and our entire wonderful community of food lovers. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and prepare to wholeheartedly fall in love with your new favorite, utterly irresistible chicken dish! You truly won’t regret a single bite.