if you only have 20 minutes, make Spicy Garlic Chicken!

if you only have 20 minutes, make Spicy Garlic Chicken! is a easy Korean recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by TIFFYCOOKS on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 20 min

Cost: $15.81 total, $3.95 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (cut into bite‑size pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (for a light coating)
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (high‑smoke‑point oil for pan‑frying)
  • 2 tablespoons Korean Red Chili Paste (Gochujang)
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (low‑sodium preferred)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon Honey

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken

    Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Add Cornstarch Coating

    Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned chicken and toss until each piece has a thin, even layer.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Pan‑Fry the Chicken

    Heat the vegetable oil in the skillet over medium‑high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and fry for about 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 375°F

  4. Create the Spicy Garlic Sauce

    In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 15 seconds, then stir in gochujang, soy sauce, and honey. Let the mixture simmer for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium

  5. Finish the Dish

    Return the fried chicken to the pan, increase the heat to high, and toss everything together for 2–3 minutes until the chicken is glossy and the sauce clings.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: High

  6. Serve

    Transfer the spicy garlic chicken to a serving plate and garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
12g
Fiber
0g

Dietary info: Gluten‑free if tamari is used, Dairy‑free, Nut‑free

Allergens: Soy, Honey

Last updated: April 18, 2026

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if you only have 20 minutes, make Spicy Garlic Chicken!

Recipe by TIFFYCOOKS

A quick 20‑minute Korean‑inspired dinner featuring pan‑fried chicken coated in a thin layer of cornstarch, then tossed in a sweet‑spicy garlic sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and honey.

EasyKoreanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
5m
Prep
10m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
25m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$15.81
Total cost
$3.95
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Coating the chicken with a thin layer of cornstarch to achieve a crisp exterior.
  • Ensuring the garlic does not burn when making the sauce.
  • Tossing the chicken on high heat at the end so the sauce fully adheres without overcooking the meat.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter – keep a lid nearby and use long‑handled utensils.
  • Garlic can burn quickly; watch the pan closely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Spicy Garlic Chicken in Korean cuisine?

A

Spicy Garlic Chicken, often made with gochujang, reflects Korea’s love for bold, fermented flavors and the frequent use of garlic in everyday dishes. While not a traditional banquet dish, it embodies the modern Korean home‑cooking trend of quick, flavorful stir‑fries that can be served with rice.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Spicy Garlic Chicken in Korean cooking?

A

In the southern regions of Korea, the dish may include gochugaru (coarse red pepper flakes) and a splash of rice‑wine (mirin) for extra sweetness. In the north, a lighter soy‑based glaze is preferred, and sesame seeds are often sprinkled on top.

cultural
Q

How is Spicy Garlic Chicken traditionally served in Korea?

A

It is typically served hot, directly from the wok, alongside steamed short‑grain rice and a side of kimchi. A small bowl of ssamjang (a thick dipping sauce) is sometimes offered for extra flavor.

cultural
Q

During which Korean celebrations is Spicy Garlic Chicken commonly prepared?

A

While not a ceremonial dish, it appears frequently at family gatherings, weekend meals, and school‑yard lunches because it can be prepared quickly and satisfies both children and adults.

cultural
Q

What other Korean dishes pair well with Spicy Garlic Chicken?

A

Pair it with classic Korean sides such as kimchi, seasoned bean sprouts (kongnamul), or a simple cucumber‑soy salad. A bowl of plain rice or Korean glass noodles (japchae) balances the heat nicely.

cultural
Q

What makes Spicy Garlic Chicken special compared to other Korean chicken dishes?

A

The thin cornstarch coating gives a light crispness without the heavy batter of Korean fried chicken, while the quick gochujang‑garlic glaze delivers a sweet‑spicy punch in under 20 minutes.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Spicy Garlic Chicken?

A

Common errors include over‑coating the chicken with cornstarch, which makes the crust soggy, and burning the garlic, which adds bitterness. Also, cooking the chicken too long in the final high‑heat step can dry it out.

technical
Q

Why does this Spicy Garlic Chicken recipe use gochujang instead of plain chili flakes?

A

Gochujang provides a balanced sweet‑spicy flavor and a thick, glossy texture that clings to the chicken, whereas plain chili flakes would give heat without the characteristic depth and sheen.

technical
Q

Can I make Spicy Garlic Chicken ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can fry the chicken and keep the sauce separate. Store both in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat together in a skillet for a few minutes before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS focuses on fast, approachable home‑cooked meals, often highlighting Asian-inspired flavors and providing clear, step‑by‑step tutorials for busy cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel TIFFYCOOKS' approach to Korean cooking differ from other Korean cooking channels?

A

TIFFYCOOKS emphasizes ultra‑quick, 20‑minute meals using pantry‑friendly ingredients, whereas many Korean cooking channels showcase more elaborate, traditional preparations that require longer marinating or deep‑frying steps.

channel

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