It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. That’s when I remembered the Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam I had been meaning to try. I gathered up the ingredients and got to work, excited to see how these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam would turn out.
As I mixed the ground chicken with the gochujang, garlic, and spices, the rich aroma filled my kitchen. I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into these Gochujang Chicken Burgers. When I formed the patties and placed them on the hot grill, the sizzle was music to my ears. I knew these Gochujang Chicken Burgers were going to be something special.
While the chicken burgers cooked, I turned my attention to the kimchi bacon jam. The sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors melded together beautifully, creating the perfect topping for my Gochujang Chicken Burgers. I could barely contain my excitement as I assembled the burgers, piling on the kimchi bacon jam and all the fixings.
The first bite was an explosion of flavors – the juicy Gochujang Chicken Burger, the savory bacon, the crunchy kimchi, and the slightly sweet jam. It was the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and heat. I couldn’t believe how delicious these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam were. It was like a party in my mouth!
From that moment on, these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam became a regular in my dinner rotation. They’re so easy to make, and the flavor combination is simply out of this world. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the magic for yourself!
Why This Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
The secret to these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam is in the unique blend of flavors and textures. The gochujang, a Korean fermented chili paste, adds a delightful kick of heat and umami to the juicy chicken patties. Meanwhile, the homemade kimchi bacon jam provides a tangy, sweet, and crunchy counterpoint that takes these burgers to the next level.
But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe so special. The technique of grilling the Gochujang Chicken Burgers to perfection, combined with the easy-to-make kimchi bacon jam, ensures that every bite is a taste bud-tingling experience. Your guests (and your taste buds) will be begging you to make these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam again and again.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Ground chicken: The base of our Gochujang Chicken Burgers, providing a lean and flavorful patty.
– Gochujang: This Korean fermented chili paste adds a bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavor to the chicken.
– Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall aroma and flavor of the Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
– Soy sauce: A touch of soy sauce helps to season the chicken and balance the flavors.
– Sesame oil: A small amount of toasted sesame oil lends a nutty undertone to the Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
– Bacon: The key ingredient in the kimchi bacon jam, adding a smoky and salty element.
– Kimchi: Tangy, crunchy, and slightly spicy, kimchi is the star of the show in the jam.
– Brown sugar: A bit of brown sugar helps to sweeten and caramelize the kimchi bacon jam.
– Apple cider vinegar: The vinegar brightens the jam and provides a nice balance of flavors.
Step-by-Step Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Instructions
Preparing Your Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are easy to prepare and come together in about 45 minutes. You’ll need a grill or grill pan to cook the chicken burgers, as well as a skillet for making the kimchi bacon jam.
1- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed, being careful not to overwork the meat.
2- Form the chicken mixture into 4-6 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
3- Cook the Gochujang Chicken Burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Be sure to flip the burgers gently to prevent them from falling apart.
4- While the chicken burgers are cooking, prepare the kimchi bacon jam. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.
5- Add the chopped kimchi to the bacon fat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the kimchi is slightly softened.
6- Stir in the brown sugar and apple cider vinegar, and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the jam has thickened. Crumble the cooked bacon back into the jam and give it a final stir.
Pro Tips for Success
– For the juiciest Gochujang Chicken Burgers, don’t overwork the meat when forming the patties. Gently shape them and avoid compacting the mixture too much.
– If you prefer a spicier jam, feel free to add a bit more gochujang or red pepper flakes to the kimchi bacon jam.
– Make sure to cook the chicken burgers thoroughly, as ground chicken can sometimes be more prone to bacteria. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature.
– Letting the Gochujang Chicken Burgers rest for a few minutes before serving will help the juices redistribute, making them even more flavorful.
Serving and Storing Your Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Perfect Pairings for Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with crispy fries, a refreshing cabbage slaw, or a simple green salad. For a beverage, a cold, hoppy IPA or a refreshing Korean lemonade would be the perfect accompaniment.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Gochujang Chicken Burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The kimchi bacon jam can also be made in advance and stored separately for up to 1 week.
To reheat the Gochujang Chicken Burgers, simply place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. The kimchi bacon jam can be gently reheated in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed.
For make-ahead convenience, you can form the Gochujang Chicken Burger patties in advance and store them in the freezer, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. When ready to use, simply thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and then grill as usual.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Creative Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam. Try swapping out the ground chicken for ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile. You could also add in some shredded cabbage or carrots to the burger mixture for extra crunch and nutrition.
For a seasonal twist, consider using a fall-inspired jam, such as apple or pear, in place of the kimchi bacon jam. Or, take inspiration from Korean cuisine and top the Gochujang Chicken Burgers with a fried egg and a drizzle of gochujang mayo.
Making Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Diet-Friendly
To make these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam more diet-friendly, you can opt for leaner ground chicken or turkey, and use low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular buns for gluten-free alternatives.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can serve the Gochujang Chicken Burgers on lettuce wraps instead of buns. The kimchi bacon jam can also be enjoyed as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought kimchi instead of making the jam?
A: Absolutely! If you don’t have the time or inclination to make the kimchi bacon jam, you can certainly use store-bought kimchi as a topping for the Gochujang Chicken Burgers. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid from the kimchi before using.
Q: How can I make the Gochujang Chicken Burgers spicier?
A: To amp up the heat, you can add a bit more gochujang to the chicken mixture or mix in some finely chopped fresh chili peppers. You can also drizzle the finished burgers with a spicy gochujang-based sauce or aioli.
Q: Can I make the Gochujang Chicken Burgers ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Gochujang Chicken Burger patties in advance and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and then grill as usual.
Q: How many Gochujang Chicken Burgers does this recipe yield?
A: This recipe will make 4-6 Gochujang Chicken Burgers, depending on the size of the patties you form. If you’re serving a larger crowd, you can easily double or triple the recipe.
Q: What should I do if the kimchi bacon jam is too thick?
A: If the kimchi bacon jam becomes too thick and sticky, you can thin it out by adding a splash of water or apple cider vinegar and stirring it in. This will help to loosen the consistency and make it easier to spread on the Gochujang Chicken Burgers.
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate fusion of Korean and American flavors with these Gochujang Chicken Burgers, topped with a tangy and umami-packed Kimchi Bacon Jam. The juicy, spice-rubbed chicken patties are perfectly complemented by the bold and tangy jam, creating a burger that’s bursting with bold, crave-worthy taste.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 burger buns, toasted
– 1 cup chopped kimchi
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
1. – In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
2. – Form the chicken mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. – Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. – In a small bowl, mix together the chopped kimchi, crumbled bacon, brown sugar, and rice vinegar to make the Kimchi Bacon Jam.
5. – Place the cooked chicken patties on the toasted burger buns and top with a generous spoonful of the Kimchi Bacon Jam. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
6. – Serve the Gochujang Chicken Burgers immediately, and enjoy!
Notes
– For a spicier jam, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
– The Kimchi Bacon Jam can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
– Customize the toppings to your liking, such as adding sliced avocado or pickled onions.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean-American Fusion
Conclusion
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are an absolute flavor explosion that you won’t be able to get enough of. The perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy, paired with the juicy chicken and crunchy toppings, makes this recipe a true standout.
Don’t just take my word for it – give these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam a try and see for yourself why they’ve become a new favorite in my kitchen. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know how they turned out.
