One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that balances bold flavors with effortless cooking, then you’re going to love this One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, buttery sauce infused with the spicy, savory kick of gochujang – a Korean chili paste that adds a perfect depth of flavor. What makes this dish truly irresistible is how quickly you can whip it up all in one pan, making dinner both delicious and hassle-free. Plus, with vibrant veggies like broccoli and red bell pepper tossed in, it’s a wholesome meal that’s as colorful as it is tasty.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The magic of this One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken lies in its simplicity and bold flavor profile. You get the creamy richness from butter and sesame oil, the subtle sweetness from honey, the umami punch from soy sauce, and the fiery warmth from gochujang all in one dish. Cooking everything in a single skillet means fewer dishes to wash and a quicker cleanup – perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal without the fuss.

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the straightforward steps make it easy to nail every time. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce Korean-inspired flavors to your dinner table, and it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. If you enjoy dishes like the Slow Cooker Thai Sweet Chili Chicken, this recipe will be right up your alley with its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of the dish’s aromatic profile.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they’re lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. This partial cooking will finish later when combined with the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Gochujang Butter Sauce

Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Add the unsalted butter, gochujang, soy sauce, and honey to the empty side of the pan. Stir everything together until the butter melts and forms a smooth, glossy sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Mix the chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through, about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Add Vegetables

Toss in the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant.

Step 7: Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped green onion and sesame seeds on top. Give the dish a final stir and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. The sauce is rich and flavorful, perfect for soaking into your sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken – it should be just cooked through to stay tender and juicy.
• Skipping the sauté of garlic and ginger – these aromatics add essential depth to the sauce.
• Adding too much broth – keep the sauce thick enough to coat the chicken without becoming watery.
• Not stirring the sauce well – ensure the gochujang and butter melt completely to avoid clumps.
• Cooking vegetables too long – they should remain slightly crisp to retain texture and color.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein Swap: Try this recipe with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Heat Level: Adjust the gochujang amount to suit your spice preference or add a dash of chili flakes for more heat.
• Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil for a fresh, herbal note.
• Serving Style: Serve wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or alongside a fresh cucumber salad.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well – just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking instructions.

Is gochujang very spicy?

Gochujang has a mild to moderate heat level with a deep, fermented flavor that balances sweetness and umami. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance or substitute with a milder chili paste if preferred.

What can I serve with this dish?

This One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use a plant-based butter alternative. Make sure your gochujang and soy sauce are vegan-friendly, and substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Conclusion

This One-Skillet Gochujang Butter Chicken is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying meal that deserves a spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. With its perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and buttery flavors, it’s a dish that excites the taste buds while keeping things simple in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously vibrant dinner that’s sure to become a favorite.

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