These spicy gochujang chicken burgers are bursting with flavor! With a kick from the gochujang and a sweet twist from the kimchi bacon jam, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Honestly, I can’t resist that kimchi bacon jam. It’s like a party in my mouth! I love serving these burgers with a side of crispy fries for a fun meal that never disappoints!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for the burgers, providing a juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For those avoiding poultry, try ground beef or a plant-based substitute!
Gochujang: A key ingredient for spice and flavor! If you can’t find it, you can substitute with sriracha mixed with a bit of miso paste to mimic that depth of flavor. Make sure to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Bacon: Adds a delicious smokiness to the kimchi jam. If you need a vegetarian option, you can use tempeh or a smokey mushroom instead. Just cook them until crispy for that texture!
Kimchi: This fermented cabbage is packed with flavor. If you’re not a fan or can’t find kimchi, any type of fermented vegetable could work. You can also use sweet relish for a different but tasty spin!
How Do I Cook the Chicken Patties to Perfection?
Cooking chicken patties might seem tricky, but it’s really all about the temperature and timing. Follow these steps for juicy, well-cooked burgers:
- Preheat your skillet or grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the patties get a nice sear.
- Lightly oil the grill or skillet to prevent sticking.
- Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking, as this releases juices and can dry them out.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve burgers with a tasty crust and a juicy interior every time!
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Ingredients:
For the Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- 4 burger buns
For the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- 6 oz (170g) bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Assembling:
- Lettuce leaves or arugula
- Sliced cucumber or pickles (optional)
- Mayonnaise or Asian-style mayo (mayo mixed with a little sriracha)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, including 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious way to spice up your burger night!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan. Add vegetable oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped kimchi, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Cook for 5-7 minutes on medium-low heat until the mixture thickens slightly and flavors meld together. Return the cooked bacon to the pan, stir to combine, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Spicy Gochujang Chicken Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, green onions, salt, pepper, and the egg (if using). Mix gently but thoroughly to combine everything. Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized burger patties.
3. Cook the Chicken Patties:
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken patties should be browned on the outside and juicy inside!
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread mayonnaise or Asian-style mayo on the bottom bun. Add lettuce or arugula, then place the spicy gochujang chicken patty on top. Spoon generous amounts of kimchi bacon jam over the patty. If you’d like, add sliced cucumber or pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.
5. Serve:
Serve immediately while warm, with your favorite sides such as fries or a simple salad.
Enjoy your bold and flavorful Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam!
FAQ About Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Beef Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef will work well as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially if using beef, as it may need a few more minutes to cook fully.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of gochujang in the burger mixture and kimchi bacon jam. You can also substitute some of the gochujang with regular red chili paste or omit it entirely, adding more soy sauce for flavor instead.
Can I Prepare the Kimchi Bacon Jam in Advance?
Yes! The kimchi bacon jam can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it briefly on the stove or in the microwave before using it on your burgers.
What Can I Substitute for Kimchi If I Can’t Find It?
If you can’t find kimchi, you can use any other fermented vegetable like sauerkraut, or a sweet relish for a different flavor. Alternatively, try using chopped pickles mixed with a little hot sauce for a tangy twist!
