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Korean Chicken Breasts Recipe

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This Korean Chicken Breast recipe features tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, apple sauce, garlic, and ginger, finished with a quick stovetop grilling for a delicious and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Korean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise, from 2 breasts)

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup low sodium or gluten-free soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp light brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for topping)
  • 2 thinly sliced scallions (white and green parts)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast half in a Ziploc bag and gently pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch, ensuring the bag does not puncture. This helps the chicken cook evenly and tenderizes it.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, apple sauce, finely chopped yellow onion, sesame oil, grated ginger, light brown sugar, crushed garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and sesame seeds until well combined.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for later use, then pour the remaining marinade into the bag with the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side or until the chicken no longer sticks to the grill, indicating it’s ready to flip.
  5. Baste and Finish Grilling: Turn the chicken breasts over and spoon the reserved ¼ cup marinade over them. Continue grilling for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, sprinkle with additional sesame seeds and sliced scallions for garnish, and serve hot.

Notes

  • For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you want a mild flavor.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a side of sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.