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Korean BBQ Chicken Thighs: Irresistible Homemade Recipe

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Tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a savory-sweet glaze of soy, garlic, ginger, and pear, finished with a caramelized char. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this dish delivers authentic Korean flavor with weeknight ease.

  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1/4 cup pear puree (fresh or canned)
1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., canola)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Sliced scallions (for garnish)

Instructions

Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, gochujang, garlic, ginger, pear puree, and 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a bowl.
Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag and add marinade. Seal and massage to coat evenly.
Refrigerate for 15 minutes (minimum) or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Heat a grill, griddle, or oven to high-heat (400°F). Brush one side of chicken with remaining neutral oil.
Cook skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden and charred. Flip and cook 3-5 minutes more, basting with marinade for a sticky glaze.
Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.

Notes

For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon gochujang to the marinade.
Marinating overnight enhances tenderness and flavor.
Swap pear puree for 2 tablespoons honey if pear is unavailable.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to preserve texture.

  • Author: Amelie Harper
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: Cozy Chicken
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg