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Easy Chicken Bulgogi Recipe (Dak Bulgogi)

Chicken Bulgogi, also known as Dak Bulgogi, is a beloved Korean dish that’s flavorful, versatile, and incredibly simple to make at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 3
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 633
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (can substitute with chicken breasts, wings, or even pork or beef)
  • Bulgogi Marinade
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey, maple syrup, or agave
  • 1 tablespoon mirin or rice vinegar as a substitute
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil toasted sesame oil for stronger flavor
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang optional, for heat and depth

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl (for marinade)
  • Whisk or spoon (to mix marinade)
  • Air fryer or large skillet/frying pan (depending on cooking method)
  • Tongs (for flipping chicken)
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Zip-top bags or airtight containers (for marinating/freezing)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the marinade.
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sesame oil, avocado oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
  2. Marinate the chicken.
    Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them thoroughly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2–4 hours for the best flavor. If freezing, transfer the chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
  3. Cook the chicken (choose your method):
    Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in the basket in a single layer and cook for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Skillet/Pan Fry:
    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until caramelized and fully cooked.
  5. Grill:
    Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade for more flavor.
  6. Serve and enjoy;
    Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or wrapped in lettuce leaves with kimchi and veggies.

Notes

Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Expert Tips
✅ Don’t skip sesame oil – It gives the marinade a signature nutty flavor.
✅ For spicier bulgogi – Add more gochujang or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
✅ Slice chicken before marinating – Helps the marinade penetrate more deeply and reduces cooking time.
✅ Cook in batches if needed – Avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer to ensure caramelization.