Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken: A Quick and Flavorful Recipe

Name: Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 ¼ pound boneless, skinless chicken; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon white pepper; 2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce (divided); 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons avocado oil; ¼ cup honey; 2 tablespoons gochujang paste; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 5 cloves garlic (minced); Green onions (for topping); Toasted sesame seeds (for topping)

Published: October 3, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

This incredible Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken:

1 ¼ pound boneless, skinless chicken – Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

¼ teaspoon baking soda – Helps achieve a tender texture by breaking down protein bonds in the chicken.

1 teaspoon granulated sugar – Balances out the flavors by adding a hint of sweetness to the dish.

½ teaspoon white pepper – Adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor profile without being overwhelming.

2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil – Provides a delicious nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce, divided – Used in the marinade and sauce, adds saltiness and depth of flavor.

3 tablespoons cornstarch – Coats the chicken for a delicious crispiness when fried.

3 tablespoons avocado oil – Ideal for high-heat frying, bringing a light flavor to the dish.

¼ cup honey – Creates a sticky glaze and contributes to that mouthwatering sweetness.

2 tablespoons gochujang paste – This Korean chili paste provides the signature spicy kick and depth of flavor.

1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds a necessary tang that balances the sweetness of the honey.

5 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with an aromatic and savory essence.

Green onions, for topping – Adds a fresh crunch and beautiful garnish to the finished dish.

Toasted sesame seeds, for topping – Enhances visual appeal and adds a nutty flavor.

How to Make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of water, baking soda, kosher salt, granulated sugar, white pepper, toasted sesame oil, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce until the baking soda has dissolved. Add your cut chicken pieces to the mix, give it a good stir, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s like giving your chicken a spa treatment.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
After marinating, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken and stir well until all the pieces are fully coated. This step is essential for that glorious crust that you’re about to achieve. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a measuring cup or another bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, honey, gochujang paste, and rice vinegar until combined. This sauce will become the star of your dish, so don’t be shy – get a little taste. Adjust it if you like things spicier or sweeter.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the marinated chicken, and let it sizzle undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes. Then, flip the pieces and cook the other side for an additional 2-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are thoroughly cooked. Transfer to a plate and repeat this step with the remaining chicken.

Step 5: Sauté the Garlic
Once all the chicken is cooked and plated, reduce the skillet temperature to medium-low and cool for about 2 minutes. Drizzle in a small amount of oil, and then sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic is not your friend.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Increase the heat back to high and pour your beautiful sauce into the pan, letting it bubble and sizzle. Add your chicken back in, tossing to coat every piece in the heavenly sauce. Just before you get too carried away daydreaming about the flavors, remove it from the heat.

Now, serve this Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken over a bed of fluffy rice and alongside your favorite steamed veggies. Trust me, this dish is a surefire way to impress family or friends at your next gathering, or to reward yourself with a well-deserved dinner after a long day. So, go on and dig in! Your taste buds are in for a flavorful party!

You Must Know About Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

This showstopping Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken, start by marinating the chicken for maximum flavor. Sear the chicken pieces evenly for a crispy texture, and then prepare the sauce while the chicken cooks to streamline the process.

Add Your Touch to Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Feel free to customize this dish by swapping chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist. Add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra nutrition and color, or kick up the heat with additional gochujang or chili flakes.

Storing & Reheating Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

This professional-quality Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Cooking Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken reminds me of a summer dinner party where my friends raved about the dish until I thought they were going to fight over the last piece. That shared joy is what keeps me experimenting in the kitchen.

FAQs About Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

What is Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken?

Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a savory and slightly spicy dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a delicious sauce made from honey and gochujang, a Korean chili paste. The marinated chicken is stir-fried to golden perfection and coated in a sticky glaze, delivering an impressive balance of flavors. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests and pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

How do I make Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken spicier?

If you love heat, there are several ways to amp up the spice in your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken. You can increase the amount of gochujang paste in the sauce or add chili flakes for an extra kick. Additionally, using fresh chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor and heat level. Remember to adjust the other seasonings accordingly to keep a well-balanced taste.

Can I use a different protein for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute it with firm tofu or shrimp for a delicious twist. Both options will absorb the incredible flavors of the sauce beautifully. If you’re opting for shrimp, make sure to adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking. This flexibility makes it a great choice for different dietary preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken?

To store leftovers of your Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water can help to retain the sauce’s moisture and keep the dish flavorful. This way, you can enjoy the deliciousness even after it’s cooked!

Conclusion for Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken

In summary, Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken is a delightful, quick, and flavorful recipe that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. The combination of tender chicken and the sticky, sweet-sour sauce with a hint of heat makes it a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and adaptable nature, this dish is sure to earn a regular spot on your dinner table, delivering smiles with every bite!