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Korean Chicken Bao Buns

Korean Chicken Bao Buns: Soft, Savory Bites of Delight

Enjoy Korean Chicken Bao Buns, soft and savory handheld delights bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 4 buns
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts work too but may dry out.
  • 3 tablespoons Gochujang Swap with less for mild spice or mix with honey for sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Brown sugar is a good substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Adds aromatic goodness.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated) Enhances warmth and a spicy kick.
For the Bao Buns
  • 4 buns Bao Buns Soft and pillowy; store-bought frozen buns can save time.
For the Toppings
  • 1 cucumber Cucumber (thinly sliced or pickled) Introduces a fresh, delightful crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onions (chopped) Provides a fresh, zesty flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro (fresh leaves) Adds a burst of herbal brightness.
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds Brings nuttiness and visual appeal.

Equipment

  • non-stick skillet
  • bamboo steamer

Method
 

Directions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create a luscious marinade. Coat the chicken thoroughly and marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 4 hours.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken, discarding any excess marinade. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side until nicely caramelized. Let rest before slicing.
  3. Prepare the bao buns according to package instructions, steaming each for about 10 minutes until soft and fluffy.
  4. Open each steamed bao bun to create a pocket. Fill with sliced chicken, then top with cucumber, green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds.
  5. Place the assembled bao buns on a warm platter and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour for better flavor. Serve fresh for best taste.

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