There’s something magical about a burger that brings people together, and these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam do just that.
Picture a busy weeknight when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is your answer!
With a delightful kick from the gochujang and the savory sweetness of kimchi bacon jam, these burgers are not just a meal; they’re an experience.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are a game-changer for your weeknight dinners.
They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy schedules.
The combination of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving more.
Plus, they’re a fun twist on traditional burgers, guaranteed to impress anyone at your table.
Get ready to elevate your burger night!
Ingredients for Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Creating these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam is a breeze, especially with the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground chicken: The star of the show, providing a lean protein base for your burgers.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Soy sauce: A touch of umami that enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
Garlic powder: For that aromatic punch, it’s a must-have in any savory dish.
Ginger powder: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, complementing the gochujang beautifully.
Black pepper: A simple seasoning that rounds out the flavors.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the chicken mixture, ensuring your patties hold together while cooking.
Vegetable oil: Used for cooking the patties, it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Kimchi: This fermented cabbage brings a tangy crunch and is the heart of the kimchi bacon jam.
Bacon: Adds a savory, crispy element that elevates the jam to new heights.
Brown sugar: Balances the spiciness of the kimchi with a touch of sweetness.
Rice vinegar: Provides acidity, cutting through the richness of the bacon.
Sesame oil: A drizzle of this nutty oil adds depth and a hint of Asian flair.
Hamburger buns: Choose your favorite type; they’re the perfect vessel for all these delicious flavors.
Lettuce leaves: For a fresh crunch, adding a nice contrast to the warm burger.
Sliced cucumbers: These add a refreshing element, balancing the richness of the jam.
Sliced green onions: A garnish that brings a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a flavor-packed burger experience!
How to Make Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by grabbing a large bowl.
Combine the ground chicken with gochujang, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs.
Mix everything gently until just combined; you don’t want to overwork the meat.
Once mixed, form the mixture into four equal patties.
Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
This simple step ensures juicy burgers every time!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken patties in the skillet.
Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side.
You’re looking for a nice golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F.
If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it!
This ensures your burgers are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Step 3: Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam
In a separate skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy.
Once done, remove excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan.
Add the chopped kimchi and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through.
Stir in brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is slightly caramelized.
This jam is the secret weapon that takes your burgers to the next level!
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Now it’s time to build your masterpiece!
Start with the bottom half of a hamburger bun.
Place a chicken patty on it, then generously spoon on the kimchi bacon jam.
Add a few crisp lettuce leaves and sliced cucumbers for freshness.
Top it off with the other half of the bun.
Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with delight!
Tips for Success
Don’t skip the indentation in the patties; it helps them cook evenly.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken mixture for 30 minutes before forming patties.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your patties reach 165°F for safety.
Feel free to customize the kimchi bacon jam with your favorite spices.
Toast the buns lightly for added texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
Large bowl: For mixing the chicken and seasonings. A mixing bowl works just as well.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking the patties. A cast-iron skillet can add extra flavor.
Spatula: To flip the patties without breaking them. A slotted spatula is great for draining excess grease.
Meat thermometer: To check the internal temperature. If you don’t have one, just cut into a patty to check for doneness.
Variations
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers: Add more gochujang to the chicken mixture for an extra kick. You can also mix in some chopped jalapeños for added heat.
Turkey or Beef Option: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure they’re cooked through.
Vegetarian Version: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative or black beans mashed with spices for a delicious vegetarian burger.
Gluten-Free Buns: Opt for gluten-free hamburger buns to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Kimchi Variations: Experiment with different types of kimchi, such as radish or cucumber kimchi, to change the flavor profile of the jam.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your burgers with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh Asian slaw for a delightful crunch.
Drinks: A cold lager or a refreshing iced tea complements the spicy flavors perfectly.
Presentation: Serve on a wooden board with colorful garnishes like sliced radishes and extra kimchi for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Can I make Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and form the patties in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The kimchi bacon jam can also be made ahead and reheated when you’re ready to assemble your burgers.
What can I substitute for gochujang if I can’t find it?
If gochujang is elusive, you can create a substitute by mixing red chili paste with a bit of miso and sugar. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still add a nice kick to your chicken burgers.
How spicy are these burgers?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you love heat, feel free to add more gochujang to the chicken mixture or serve with a spicy mayo on the side. For a milder version, reduce the gochujang amount.
Can I freeze the patties for later use?
Yes! These chicken patties freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What sides pair well with Gochujang Chicken Burgers?
These burgers shine alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh cucumber salad, or even a zesty coleslaw. The refreshing sides balance the rich flavors of the burgers perfectly!
Final Thoughts
Cooking these Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment.
The blend of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors dances on your palate, making every bite a delightful experience.
Whether you’re enjoying them with family or friends, these burgers spark joy and conversation.
Plus, the satisfaction of crafting something unique in your kitchen is unmatched.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and let this recipe bring a little Korean-American magic to your dinner table.
Delicious Gochujang Chicken Burgers topped with savory Kimchi Bacon Jam.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground chicken
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
1 cup kimchi, chopped
4 ounces bacon, diced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
4 hamburger buns
Lettuce leaves, for serving
Sliced cucumbers, for serving
Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, gochujang, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined. Form the mixture into 4 patties.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
While the patties are cooking, prepare the kimchi bacon jam. In a separate skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
Add the chopped kimchi to the skillet with the bacon and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized.
To assemble the burgers, place a chicken patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a generous spoonful of kimchi bacon jam, lettuce, and sliced cucumbers. Add the top half of the bun and serve.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add extra gochujang to the chicken mixture or serve with a spicy mayo.
Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken if preferred, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
