There’s something exciting about bringing a little international flair into your kitchen, especially when it comes in the form of juicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers. These delightful patties, infused with the bold, spicy sweetness of gochujang sauce, are a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their burger game.
I discovered this scrumptious recipe during one of those weekends when the grill was calling my name, but I wanted something more than my usual fare. The moment my kitchen filled with the smoky aroma of bacon sizzling alongside sweet, tangy kimchi, I knew I was onto something special. Topping these burgers with a unique kimchi bacon jam adds a rich depth and a zesty crunch that everyone will love.
Perfect for a quick midweek dinner or a weekend BBQ that will dazzle your guests, these burgers are every bit as easy to whip up as they are impressive to serve. So, grab your apron—let’s dive into this spicy Korean-inspired treat that’s sure to please!
Why Are Gochujang Chicken Burgers Irresistible?
Bold flavors: The Gochujang Chicken Burgers burst with an exciting blend of spicy and sweet notes, making every bite an adventure.
Unique twist: Topped with savory kimchi bacon jam, they elevate your average burger experience into something truly gourmet.
Quick prep: Perfect for a weeknight meal, these burgers whip up in no time, keeping dinner stress-free and enjoyable.
Crowd-pleaser: Your friends and family will rave about the combination of flavors, making this dish a sure hit at gatherings.
Versatile options: Adapt the recipe easily with various protein sources or toppings, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Gochujang Chicken Burger Ingredients
For the Patty
- Ground Chicken – A juicy protein base; substitute with turkey or beef for different tastes.
- Gochujang Sauce – Adds a spicy depth; if unavailable, use paste with soy sauce and honey.
For the Kimchi Bacon Jam
- Bacon – Introduces a smoky flair and binds the jam; turkey bacon offers a leaner choice.
- Kimchi – Essential for tanginess and crunch; opt for fresh kimchi but sauerkraut works in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar – Balances heat with sweetness; adjust according to your palate.
For Assembling
- Burger Buns – The foundation of the burger; choose wheat or gluten-free for varied preferences.
- Cucumber – Adds refreshing crunch; slice thinly or dice for varied presentation.
- Cilantro – A fresh garnish enhancing flavor; try green onions if you prefer a milder herb.
- Mayonnaise – Creamy element to incorporate; flavored mayo can spice things up!
Enjoy crafting your own Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam and let your culinary creativity shine!
How to Make Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
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Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor to your jam.
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Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam: Once the bacon is crispy, add the chopped kimchi and brown sugar to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes until everything is caramelized and well combined. Set this delicious mixture aside.
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Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken and gochujang sauce. Add any additional seasonings you like. Mix gently, then form the mixture into four equal patties, ensuring they are slightly thicker in the center for even cooking.
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Cook the Patties: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Pan-fry the patties for about 6-8 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Assemble the Burgers: While the patties are cooking, toast the burger buns until golden. Spread mayonnaise on each bun if desired. Place a chicken patty on each bun, and generously top it with the kimchi bacon jam, fresh cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
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Serve and Enjoy: Plate your burgers alongside sweet potato fries or a fresh salad, and dig in to experience the explosion of flavors!
Optional: Garnish with extra kimchi for added zest.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Gochujang Chicken Burgers
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Prep Ahead: Chop ingredients and prepare the kimchi bacon jam in advance. This will save you time during meal prep, making your Gochujang Chicken Burgers even quicker to assemble.
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Watch the Heat: When cooking the patties, ensure medium heat is maintained to avoid burning the outside while the inside remains undercooked. Aim for a perfect golden-brown crust.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to personalize each burger with unique toppings, like avocado or spicy kimchi, to elevate your Gochujang Chicken Burgers experience with varied flavors.
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Bun Choice Matters: Opt for soft, quality buns that can handle the juicy patties and toppings without falling apart. Gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.
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Taste and Adjust: Before forming the patties, taste the chicken mixture to ensure seasoning is to your liking. Adjust with additional gochujang or salt as needed to balance flavors perfectly.
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Maintain Juiciness: Avoid overworking the chicken mixture when forming patties. Gentle handling helps keep them tender and juicy, ensuring a better bite when you enjoy your Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
Gochujang Chicken Burger Variations
Explore exciting ways to personalize your Gochujang Chicken Burgers with these delicious twists and substitutions!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey for a leaner, lighter burger without sacrificing flavor.
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Beef Up: Substitute ground beef for a heartier, more traditional taste while keeping it juicy.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for an extra heat boost that’ll keep everyone on their toes!
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Vegetarian Delight: Craft a veggie burger using black beans or chickpeas, seasoned with gochujang, for a plant-based alternative that’s equally satisfying.
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No-Kimchi Option: If kimchi isn’t your thing, try quick-pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch that’s refreshing and bright.
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Gluten-Free Choice: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to adapt the meal for gluten-sensitive diners while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
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Flavor Infusion: Experiment with adding spices like garlic powder or sesame oil into the chicken mixture for an unexpected burst of premium flavor.
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Cheesy Twist: Add a slice of your fave cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking for a gooey, melty addition that elevates your burgers to cheesy perfection!
Make Ahead Options
Get ready to save time with these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam! You can prepare the chicken patties and kimchi bacon jam up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. To do this, mix the ground chicken with gochujang sauce and form the patties. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The kimchi bacon jam can be made and refrigerated as well—just ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing it tight. When you’re ready to serve, simply pan-fry the patties and assemble your burgers with toasted buns and toppings for just as delicious results, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
What to Serve with Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing these flavorful burgers with delightful sides that complement their bold taste.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture create a wonderful contrast to the spicy burgers, adding both flavor and satisfaction to your dish.
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Asian Slaw: A vibrant mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings a fresh, crunchy element that balances the richness of the kimchi bacon jam.
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Cucumber Salad: This light dish offers a refreshing crunch, enhancing the burger’s flavors while maintaining a satisfying balance between spicy and cool.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky and charred, grilled corn adds a fun, summery vibe, making it a hit with both the burgers and your guests.
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Miso Soup: A warm, savory contrast that complements the Korean flavors in the burger, miso soup adds a comforting touch to your meal.
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Chilled Sake: For a unique beverage pairing, chilled sake enhances the savory flavors in your burgers while providing a delightful cooling effect on the palate.
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Mango Sticky Rice: This sweet Thai dessert offers a luscious end to your meal, bringing in tropical flavors that contrast beautifully with the savory notes of the main dish.
How to Store and Freeze Gochujang Chicken Burgers
Fridge: Store leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers and kimchi bacon jam in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.
Freezer: Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option; heat in 30-second increments.
Reviving Toppings: Add fresh cucumber and cilantro just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness in your Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Recipe FAQs
How should I select and prepare the ingredients?
Absolutely! Choosing the right ingredients is key. For the ground chicken, ensure it’s fresh with no dark spots. When selecting kimchi, pick a jar that says “fresh” for the best flavor; it should have a crunch and a tangy aroma. As for the gochujang, look for a vibrant, well-blended paste for the richest taste. Lastly, using a quality burger bun will make a world of difference—aim for something soft yet hearty!
What’s the best way to store leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers?
Very! Store any leftover burgers in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. I usually wait for them to cool down before sealing them up to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. If you want to store them for longer, place them in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Gochujang Chicken Burgers? How?
Definitely! Freezing these burgers is easy and convenient. First, wrap each cooled burger individually in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
What are some common issues I might encounter while making this recipe?
Great question! One common issue is patties falling apart. Make sure not to over-mix the chicken mixture; this keeps them tender. Also, ensure your pan is adequately preheated before adding the patties, as this allows for a nice sear to hold them together. If the kimchi bacon jam is too runny, cook it a bit longer until the mixture thickens and gets that jam-like consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! While the recipe can be easily adapted to many dietary preferences, be cautious about bacon if you have dietary restrictions. You can use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option, using veggies sautéed in a bit of oil instead. Additionally, always check for gluten-free buns if you’re gluten-sensitive, and read labels for any allergies related to kimchi, which can contain fish sauce in some varieties.
Can my pets enjoy the Gochujang Chicken Burgers?
Not so much! While the ground chicken is safe for pets in moderation, you should avoid giving them the gochujang sauce and kimchi, as both can be too spicy and may upset their stomachs. It’s best to stick to plain chicken cooked without seasoning for a pet-friendly treat!
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add chopped kimchi and brown sugar to the skillet, sauté for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken and gochujang sauce, form into four patties.
- Pan-fry the patties in a clean skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes each side.
- Toast the burger buns and spread mayonnaise on each, assemble with patties and kimchi jam.
- Serve with fresh cucumber and cilantro on top.