There’s a buzz of excitement in the kitchen when I whip up these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam. You see, every bite is a delightful adventure; the juicy chicken patties peppered with the rich heat of gochujang harmonize beautifully with a tangy-sweet kimchi jam. This intriguing combination isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that transforms a typical burger night into something extraordinary.
I stumbled across this fantastic fusion recipe during a craving for something adventurous yet comforting. When I first tasted the smoky richness of kimchi mingled with crispy bacon and a spicy kick, I knew I had found a new favorite. Now, whether hosting a casual BBQ or simply treating myself to something special, these burgers have become my go-to. Best of all? They’re quick and easy enough for any home cook to master, making them perfect for anyone eager to break free from the monotony of fast food. Join me in creating these flavor-packed burgers that are sure to leave everyone wanting more!
Why love Gochujang Chicken Burgers?
Bold and Flavorful: These Gochujang Chicken Burgers are a flavor explosion, combining savory chicken with a spicy zing that dances on your palate.
Easy to Prepare: The recipe simplifies gourmet grilling, making it approachable for all home cooks.
Unique Fusion: This dish beautifully merges Korean and American cuisine, introducing exciting new flavors to your burger night.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these burgers are sure to impress your guests and satisfy different taste buds.
Skip the Drive-Thru: Say goodbye to boring fast food—this burger turns an ordinary meal into a delicious culinary adventure!
For other effortless and exciting dinners, check out my simple recipes.
Gochujang Chicken Burgers Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties
• Gochujang – Provides a vibrant heat and depth to the chicken patties; look for a traditional Korean variety for authentic flavor.
• Ground Chicken – The main protein source for juicy texture; can substitute with ground turkey or pork for variation.
For the Kimchi Bacon Jam
• Kimchi – Adds fermentation flavor and crunch; use store-bought or homemade for best results.
• Bacon – Contributes a smoky-sweet character; turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the spice of the kimchi jam with sweetness; can be replaced with honey or maple syrup.
For Assembling
• Burger Buns – Deliver the supporting structure for the burger; choose whole grain or gluten-free buns for dietary preferences.
• Butter – For toasting the buns, adding richness and preventing sogginess; use a non-dairy alternative if needed.
Embrace the robust flavors and create your own Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam!
How to Make Gochujang Chicken Burgers
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Prepare the Kimchi Bacon Jam: Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Stir in the chopped kimchi and brown sugar, then let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened and fragrant.
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Make the Gochujang Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, gochujang, and your favorite seasonings; mix gently but thoroughly. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties (about 1-inch thick).
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Toast the Buns: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add butter to the cut sides of the burger buns, and toast them until they are golden brown—this will take about 2-3 minutes.
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Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked chicken patties on the toasted buns, generously top with kimchi bacon jam, and cover with the other half of the buns. Serve immediately!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam?
Looking to elevate your burger night with some delightful pairings that perfectly complement the bold flavors of these delicious patties?
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries balance the spicy kick and add a delightful crunch to your meal.
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Asian Slaw: A fresh mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy soy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich burger.
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Miso Soup: This light and savory soup enhances the meal’s umami profile, warming the palate with each spoonful.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn brings a summertime essence, melding beautifully with the spicy savory essence of the burgers.
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Kimchi Fried Rice: Bring the flavors full circle by serving a side of kimchi fried rice, as it echoes the kimchi jam and adds a hearty element.
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Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar provide a zesty and light addition, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.
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Iced Green Tea: Serve a refreshing glass of iced green tea to balance the meal; its earthy notes enhance the flavors of the Gochujang chicken.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate lava cake—a luscious finish to the dining experience that sweetly contrasts the spicy burger.
How to Store and Freeze Gochujang Chicken Burgers
Fridge: Store leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Kimchi Bacon Jam Storage: Keep any leftover kimchi bacon jam in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week, great for adding to other dishes!
Tips for the Best Gochujang Chicken Burgers
- Don’t Overmix: Ensure the ground chicken mixture is combined thoroughly but avoid overworking it; this keeps the patties juicy and tender.
- Spice Adjustment: Start with 1 tablespoon of gochujang for a balanced spice level; you can adjust according to personal taste.
- Cooking Method: Use a grill or cast-iron skillet for an authentic charred flavor; it enhances the overall taste of your Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
- Kimchi Choice: Experiment with different kimchi varieties; each type brings unique fermentation flavors to the kimchi bacon jam.
- Bun Selection: Choose whole grain or gluten-free buns to suit dietary preferences, adding a hearty touch to your burgers.
Make Ahead Options
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the kimchi bacon jam and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The chicken patties can be formed ahead of time and kept covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To maintain the quality, make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the patties in a skillet or on the grill for that fresh, juicy bite! With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal effort.
Gochujang Chicken Burgers Variations
Feel free to get creative with these tasty twists that will elevate your Gochujang Chicken Burgers into a whole new level of deliciousness!
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Turkey Option: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner choice that still packs flavor. It’ll be just as juicy!
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Pork Alternative: Use ground pork instead for a richer taste. The natural fat enhances the burger’s juiciness and flavor profile wonderfully.
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Kimchi Varieties: Experiment with different types of kimchi, like cucumber or radish, to discover new flavor dimensions. The unique crunch can refresh your burger experience!
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Cheesy Delight: Add a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the patty for an extra layer of creaminess and a delightful heat. It melts beautifully when added right before finishing cooking.
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some sriracha or chopped fresh jalapeños into the patties for an intensified spice experience. Just remember to adjust to your spice level!
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Sweet and Savory: Mix in some diced pineapple into the patty mixture for a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with the spicy notes.
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Vegan Burger: Replace ground chicken with a plant-based ground meat substitute like lentils or chickpeas for a flavorful vegan option that everyone can enjoy. Season generously!
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BBQ Style: Brush the patties with a smoky BBQ sauce while cooking for a delicious twist that merges sweet and tangy flavors with the original recipe.
Let these variations guide you to a burger adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and delight your family!
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Recipe FAQs
What type of gochujang should I use?
I recommend using a traditional Korean variety of gochujang for the most authentic flavor. Look for it in the international aisle of your grocery store or at an Asian market. There are varying levels of heat, so choose one that suits your spice tolerance!
How should I store leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers?
Place any leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help retain their moisture and flavor. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze these burgers?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each cooked burger tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my chicken patties are too dry?
If you’ve found your patties turning out too dry, it might be due to overworking the ground chicken mixture. For next time, mix the ingredients just until combined—it’s important to keep the mixture tender. Additionally, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more gochujang to keep the moisture content up.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with a gluten allergy, choose gluten-free burger buns. For lower-fat burgers, consider substituting regular bacon with turkey bacon in the kimchi bacon jam. Always check the kimchi label as some brands may contain fish sauce, which might not align with certain dietary preferences.
How long can I keep kimchi bacon jam in the fridge?
You can keep any leftover kimchi bacon jam in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It pairs wonderfully with other dishes like rice bowls or sandwiches, so don’t hesitate to use it as a versatile condiment!
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Jam
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Stir in the chopped kimchi and brown sugar, then let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, gochujang, and your favorite seasonings; mix gently but thoroughly. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties (about 1-inch thick).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add butter to the cut sides of the burger buns, and toast them until they are golden brown—this will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Place the cooked chicken patties on the toasted buns, generously top with kimchi bacon jam, and cover with the other half of the buns. Serve immediately!