Get ready for a flavor explosion with these spicy gochujang chicken burgers! The spicy kick from the gochujang sauce pairs perfectly with juicy chicken, and wait until you try the kimchi bacon jam!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a burger that combines spicy, sweet, and umami flavors? I can’t resist adding extra kimchi bacon jam on top. It’s the perfect way to take your burger game to the next level!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is a lean and flavorful option. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey works well too. For a richer taste, use a mix of ground chicken and pork.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste brings a spicy kick! If you don’t have it, a mix of sriracha and a little sugar can mimic the sweetness and heat of gochujang.
Bacon: You can substitute turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it’ll still contribute a lovely crunch!
Kimchi: If you’re not a fan of kimchi, you can use sauerkraut or even pickled vegetables for a tasty alternative, although they won’t have the exact same flavor profile.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a nice crispy texture in your burgers. If unavailable, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work, but panko is my top choice for crunch!
How Do You Make the Perfect Kimchi Bacon Jam?
Making kimchi bacon jam can be super easy if you follow these steps. The combination of bacon with the tanginess of kimchi makes for a unique topping!
- First, cook the bacon until crispy, which adds a deep flavor.
- Use the bacon fat to sauté the onion and garlic; it adds richness.
- Add the kimchi, kimchi juice, brown sugar, and gochujang to balance sweet and spicy notes.
- Keep cooking until it thickens; this concentrated flavor is key to a great jam!
- Lastly, stir the crispy bacon back into the mix for that crunchy texture!
Trust me; this jam is a wonderful addition to any burger and possibly your next obsession!
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 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 egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
- Burger buns, toasted
For The Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped, plus 2 tbsp kimchi juice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
To Serve:
- Lettuce leaves or baby greens
- Thinly sliced cucumber
- Mayonnaise or spicy mayo (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking and assembling your burgers. It’s a quick and rewarding dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
Start by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it gets crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, but leave the delicious bacon fat in the pan. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté them until they are softened and translucent, which will take about 5 minutes.
Next, stir in the chopped kimchi, kimchi juice, brown sugar, gochujang, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix everything well and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens into a jam-like consistency. Once it’s done, stir the crispy bacon back into the mixture and turn off the heat. This jam is going to be the star of your burger!
2. Make the Chicken Burgers:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, egg, panko breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Make sure not to overmix as that can make your burgers tough.
Now, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure they are even in size for consistent cooking!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in the same skillet you used earlier or you can use a grill pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken patties. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure your burgers are cooked through and juicy!
4. Assemble the Burgers:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns. Once toasted, you can spread mayonnaise or spicy mayo onto the buns if you like a little extra creaminess. Start assembling by placing a lettuce leaf or baby greens on the bottom bun, followed by the chicken patty. Top it generously with that amazing kimchi bacon jam you made. Add some thin cucumber slices for a fresh crunch, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you wish. Finally, cap it off with the top bun!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your spicy gochujang chicken burgers hot! These burgers are packed with flavor and offer a wonderful mix of spicy, tangy, and savory notes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy!
This recipe balances spicy gochujang with savory bacon and tangy kimchi for an unforgettable burger experience. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will give you a slightly different flavor while keeping the dish lean. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, aiming for the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more gochujang to the chicken mixture or incorporate some sliced fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the kimchi bacon jam. Adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spiciness!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and kimchi bacon jam in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The burgers will last for up to 3 days, while the jam can be stored for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove before enjoying!
Can I Freeze the Burgers Before Cooking?
Yes! You can shape the patties and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking for best results!
