Growing up in a Korean-American household, I have vivid memories of our family gatherings centered around the smoky, sizzling flavors of Korean BBQ. It was always such a lively, communal experience – crowding around the table, sipping on cold beers, and wrapping tender slices of marinated beef or pork in crisp lettuce leaves. But one dish that always stole the spotlight was my aunt’s legendary Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs.
These little pockets of flavor were the talk of the town, with their irresistible combination of savory Korean BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese – all wrapped up in a golden, crunchy shell. I can still remember the first time I sank my teeth into one, the flavors exploding in my mouth in a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and umami. It was love at first bite, and from that moment on, I was hooked.
Why This Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
What makes this recipe for Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs so special is the way it seamlessly blends the bold, spicy-sweet flavors of Korean BBQ with the comforting richness of bacon and melted cheese. The key is in the marinade – a tantalizing mix of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic garlic and ginger that infuses the chicken with an irresistible umami punch. And by wrapping that flavor-packed chicken in a crispy, bacon-studded shell and baking it to perfection, you end up with a truly crave-worthy treat that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
– Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The dark meat of chicken thighs stays juicier and more flavorful than breasts when cooked in the Korean BBQ marinade.
– Gochujang: This fermented Korean chili paste is the key to the signature spicy-sweet flavor profile.
– Soy sauce: Adds depth and savory umami notes.
– Brown sugar: Balances the heat of the gochujang and helps create a nice caramelized exterior.
– Garlic and ginger: Aromatic ingredients that infuse the marinade with fragrance.
– Bacon: Crispy bacon bits add a delightful smoky, salty crunch.
– Shredded cheddar cheese: The melted cheese filling is the perfect creamy counterpart to the bold Korean BBQ flavors.
– Wonton wrappers: These create the crispy, golden shell that encases the flavorful filling.
Step-by-Step Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs Instructions
Preparing Your Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
These Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs come together quickly, with just about 30 minutes of active prep time. You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools, like a large bowl for marinating, a baking sheet, and a food processor or blender for making the marinade. Once you have everything ready, the assembly process is easy and fun – perfect for getting the whole family involved.
1- Start by making the Korean BBQ marinade. In a food processor or blender, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2- Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
3- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4- Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface and place a spoonful of the marinated chicken in the center. Top with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits and a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
5- Fold the wonton wrapper over the filling to create a triangle shape, then press the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6- Arrange the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the wrappers are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Success
– For extra crispiness, spray the tops of the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs with a light coating of cooking oil before baking.
– Make sure to not overstuff the wonton wrappers, as this can cause them to burst open during baking.
– Adjust the spice level of the marinade by adding more or less gochujang to suit your taste preferences.
– Don’t be afraid to get creative with the fillings – try mixing in different types of cheese or adding a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Serving and Storing Your Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
Perfect Pairings for Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
These Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs make for an incredible appetizer or snack, perfect for game days, movie nights, or any casual gathering with friends and family. Serve them alongside a refreshing Asian slaw, some tangy pickled radishes, or crispy tater tots for a truly indulgent and satisfying spread. And don’t forget the ice-cold beers or soju to complete the Korean BBQ experience!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble the uncooked Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs in advance and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag or container and keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply pop them straight from the freezer onto a baking sheet and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
Creative Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs Variations
While the classic combination of Korean BBQ chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese is hard to beat, there’s plenty of room for creativity with this recipe. Try swapping in different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, for a twist on the flavor profile. You could also experiment with other protein fillings, such as spicy pork or tofu, to cater to different dietary preferences. And for a fun, seasonal twist, consider adding diced kimchi or a drizzle of gochujang-honey glaze to the filling.
Making Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs Diet-Friendly
To make these Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free wonton wrappers or spring roll wrappers instead of the traditional ones. For a low-carb or keto-friendly take, skip the wrappers altogether and bake the Korean BBQ chicken and bacon filling into bite-sized meatballs. And for a dairy-free option, swap out the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative, like vegan mozzarella or a cashew-based “cheese” sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: While chicken thighs work best for this recipe due to their juicier texture, you can certainly use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as chicken breasts tend to dry out more easily.
Q: How can I make the wonton wrappers extra crispy?
A: To ensure extra-crispy wonton wrappers, be sure to bake the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and avoid overcrowding them. You can also try lightly spraying the tops with cooking oil before baking for an extra golden-brown crunch.
Q: How far in advance can I make these?
A: You can assemble the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs up to 3 days in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked bombs for up to 3 months, then bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Can I air fry these instead of baking?
A: Absolutely! To air fry the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs, simply preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the bombs in a single layer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Q: What should I do if the cheese leaks out during baking?
A: If you find that the cheese is oozing out of the wonton wrappers during baking, try not to overstuff the filling next time. You can also try using a shredded cheese blend that is specifically formulated for melting and baking, as it tends to hold its shape better.
Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 24 pieces
Description
Prepare to indulge in the ultimate flavor explosion with these mouthwatering Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs! Crispy on the outside, oozing with melted cheese on the inside, and bursting with savory, smoky, and sweet notes, these irresistible appetizers are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 8 oz bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup Korean BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Wrap each chicken cube with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
3. 3. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
4. 4. Dip the bacon-wrapped chicken cubes first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and finally coat them in the panko breadcrumbs.
5. 5. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. 6. Transfer the fried chicken cubes to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. 7. Remove the toothpicks and serve the Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs warm, with the Korean BBQ sauce for dipping.
Notes
For best results, use high-quality bacon and cheddar cheese. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or mozzarella. Serve these as a party appetizer or enjoy them as a delicious snack.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: Korean, American
Conclusion
These Korean BBQ Bacon Chicken Cheese Stick Bombs are the ultimate fusion of flavors, combining the bold, umami-rich taste of Korean BBQ with the comforting richness of bacon and melted cheese. They’re the perfect party appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. So why not give this recipe a try? I promise, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked just like I was all those years ago. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
