There’s something truly comforting about a dish that balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in every bite. This Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi is a game-changer—bringing all the bold, delicious flavors of traditional Korean bulgogi with the convenience of an air fryer. No need for a grill or stove; the air fryer works its magic, creating tender, caramelized chicken with a slight crisp around the edges.

Bulgogi, meaning “fire meat” in Korean, is a staple in Korean cuisine, traditionally made with beef and cooked over an open flame. However, this version uses chicken, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, the chicken soaks up all the delicious flavors before being air-fried to perfection.

Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of rice, fresh lettuce wraps, or even tucked into a wrap for an easy lunch. Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or already a fan, this air fryer version of chicken bulgogi is sure to become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Thanks to the air fryer, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for busy days.
• Bold Korean Flavors – A balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors infused into every bite.
• Healthier Alternative – Less oil compared to pan-frying, yet just as delicious!
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or even in tacos for a fusion twist.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy flavorful meals throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips. This allows the marinade to absorb better and ensures even cooking in the air fryer.

2. Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and develop a nice caramelized texture.

5. Air Fry the Chicken

Lightly grease the air fryer basket and place the marinated chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation. Cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking or flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking.

6. Garnish & Serve

Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving plate and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or your favorite side dishes.

Helpful Tips

• Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Results – While chicken breast works, thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
• Marinate for Maximum Flavor – If time allows, marinate overnight to let the flavors penetrate deeply.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer – Cook in batches if needed to ensure crispy edges.
• Adjust the Spice Level – Add more gochujang for extra heat or reduce it for a milder taste.
• Serve with Variety – Pair with kimchi, pickled radish, or a simple cucumber salad for an authentic Korean meal

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (+ 30 minutes marinating)
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes (+ marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Korean
• Diet: Dairy-Free

Notes

• If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute with a mix of red pepper flakes and a little extra honey.
• Leftovers can be used in wraps, fried rice, or even salads for a flavorful meal the next day.
• Try adding thinly sliced onions or mushrooms to the marinade for extra depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 780mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breast works well too. Just be mindful of the cook time, as breast meat tends to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

2. Can I cook this on a stovetop instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely! Simply heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the marinated chicken for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked and slightly caramelized.

3. How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you use. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.

4. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cooked chicken bulgogi can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

5. What should I serve with Chicken Bulgogi?

Steamed rice, lettuce wraps, pickled vegetables, or a side of kimchi make excellent pairings. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken bulgogi in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until hot.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi, you might also love:

• Korean BBQ : A Flavorful Journey to the Heart of Korean Cuisine

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Chicken Bulgogi is proof that you don’t need a grill or fancy equipment to enjoy the deep, rich flavors of Korean cuisine. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead of time. With its bold marinade and crispy yet tender texture, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Give it a try, and let me know how you like it! Enjoy your homemade Korean feast!

Print