These spicy gochujang chicken burgers are bursting with flavor! Topped with a sweet and tangy kimchi bacon jam, they bring the fun right to your grill or kitchen.
Imagine biting into that juicy burger with a zing! I love how the spicy sauce meets the sweetness of the jam—a tasty adventure for your taste buds!
Making these burgers is a breeze. Just mix, shape, and cook—then watch your family dive in with smiles. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or dinner any night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This gives the burgers a lighter texture compared to beef. If you want a richer flavor, turkey or lean beef can work too. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, since beef might take a bit longer to cook through.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds a spicy and umami flavor. If you can’t find it, try using Sriracha, though the flavor will be different. For a milder option, a bit of mild chili powder mixed with a touch of soy sauce can work too.
Kimchi: For the sweet bacon jam, any type of kimchi will do. If you’re not a fan of spicy, look for a mild kimchi or even pickled vegetables. You can swap kimchi with a combination of diced pickles and hot sauce for a different twist.
Bacon: The bacon gives a salty and crunchy texture. If you’re vegetarian, try using smoked tempeh or a veggie bacon alternative. For a lower-fat option, you can skip the bacon and add more kimchi for flavor.
How Can I Get Juicy Chicken Burgers?
The key to keeping your chicken burgers juicy is to avoid overmixing the meat mixture. When combining, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and dry burgers. It’s also helpful to keep the patties slightly thick for better moisture retention.
- Shape the patties gently, making a slight dent in the middle. This prevents them from puffing up while cooking.
- Cook them on medium-high heat to get a nice sear that locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating without drying them out.
Feel free to experiment with ingredients and adjust to your taste! Enjoy making your Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers!
Spicy Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Sweet Kimchi Bacon Jam
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
For the Sweet Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped (drain excess liquid)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Additional:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves or greens
- Sliced cucumber or pickles (optional)
- Mayonnaise or aioli (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend roughly 15-20 minutes on the kimchi bacon jam and chicken burgers, followed by a few minutes to toast the buns and assemble everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
Start by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Cook the chopped bacon until it turns crispy and brown, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain most of the fat, keeping just about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Next, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they soften, anywhere from 3-4 minutes. Now stir in the chopped kimchi, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, gochujang, and soy sauce. Lower the heat and let this simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. When it’s ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Burgers:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, egg (if using), and panko breadcrumbs (if using). Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Once mixed, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, about ¾-1 inch thick.
3. Cook the Chicken Burgers:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, making sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll want to see a nice golden brown color on each side.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Once cooked, it’s time to build your burgers! Spread mayonnaise or aioli on the toasted burger buns, if you like. Start by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the chicken burger patty. Generously spoon the sweet kimchi bacon jam over the top. If you’d like, add cucumber slices or pickles for extra crunch. Finally, place the top half of the bun and serve your delicious burgers immediately!
Enjoy these flavorful and spicy gochujang chicken burgers, perfectly paired with the rich, sweet, and tangy kimchi bacon jam!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a little extra moisture, like olive oil or a bit more sesame oil, to keep the burgers juicy.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for the Burgers?
Yes! You can substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based meat alternative or even use mashed chickpeas or black beans combined with breadcrumbs. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Kimchi Bacon Jam?
Leftover kimchi bacon jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using it again for your burgers or as a condiment!
Can I Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The kimchi bacon jam can be made in advance. Prepare it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it even tastier when you assemble your burgers!
