These Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers are full of flavor! The spicy gochujang sauce gives them a nice kick, while the kimchi bacon jam adds a tasty twist. Yum!
When I make these, I can’t resist having an extra burger. There’s something about that sweet and spicy flavor that keeps me coming back for more. Seriously, it’s hard to share! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of the burger and should be lean for the best texture. You could also use ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option. Just make sure to handle it gently to avoid tough burgers.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds depth of flavor and heat. If it’s hard to find, a mix of sriracha and red miso can work as a substitute, although the taste will vary slightly.
Bacon: For the kimchi bacon jam, traditional pork bacon is delicious. You can use turkey or even vegan bacon if you want a healthier or vegetarian version, but they may need shorter cooking times.
Kimchi: Look for store-bought kimchi for convenience. If you’re making your own, napa cabbage is great. You can skip the kimchi if you prefer a milder flavor, but it does add an amazing tang!
Why Is Proper Handling Important for the Chicken Patties?
When preparing the chicken patties, handling the meat properly ensures they stay juicy and tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined; over-mixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Shape patties gently, avoiding too much pressure. This keeps the texture light.
- Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps them hold together better on the grill.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Bacon Jam Texture?
The kimchi bacon jam is flavorful but needs some technique for that perfect texture:
- Cook the bacon until crispy for the best crunch.
- Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic until they’re nice and soft before adding the kimchi. This builds a great flavor base!
- Simmer until the mixture thickens, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
Enjoy making your Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers! I’m sure they’ll be a hit!
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- 6 oz (170g) bacon, diced
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped, with some of its juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or chili flakes (optional for extra spice)
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves or baby spinach
- Thinly sliced cucumber or pickles (optional)
- Mayonnaise or a gochujang mayo (mix mayo with a little gochujang)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The chicken patties are mixed and chilled while the kimchi bacon jam is simmering to perfection, making it a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are equally blended. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties and place them in the refrigerator while you prepare the kimchi bacon jam.
2. Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped kimchi, some of its juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and optional gochugaru. Let it simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens into a jam-like consistency. Finally, return the crispy bacon to the skillet, mix well, and remove from heat.
3. Cook the Chicken Burgers:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, lightly oiling the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking to keep them juicy and delicious.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread mayonnaise or gochujang mayo on the toasted buns, then place a layer of lettuce or baby spinach on the bottom bun. Add the grilled chicken patty, top generously with the kimchi bacon jam, and if you like, add thinly sliced cucumbers or pickles for an extra crunch. Finish it off by placing the top bun on.
5. Serve:
Serve the burgers immediately with your choice of sides, such as fries, salad, or pickled vegetables. Enjoy the spicy, sweet, and savory explosion of flavors with every bite!
Bon appétit! 🌟
FAQ for Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Yes, ground turkey makes a great substitute! It has a similar texture and will absorb the flavors well. Just ensure you don’t overcook it to prevent dryness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, add extra gochujang to the chicken mixture or sprinkle more gochugaru into the kimchi bacon jam. You can also serve the burgers with sliced jalapeños or pickled chili peppers for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftover Kimchi Bacon Jam?
You can store any leftover kimchi bacon jam in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it gently on the stove before using it again to top your burgers or as a flavorful condiment.
Can I Freeze the Chicken Patties?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped chicken patties before cooking. Just layer them with parchment paper in a freezer bag or container. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the grilling time.
