Korean Chicken Bao Buns

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Tender, spicy-sweet Korean chicken tucked into soft, fluffy bao buns is the kind of meal that hits every craving at once. It’s got that sticky, saucy heat paired with a cloud-like bun you can’t stop eating. Whether you’re planning a fun weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a gathering, these bao buns are a total crowd-pleaser.

The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite something special. The juicy chicken is coated in a garlicky gochujang glaze, while the bao buns cradle it all with their pillowy softness. A few crisp cucumbers or pickled veggies layered inside add the perfect refreshing crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Korean Chicken Bao Buns

They’re an explosion of flavor with minimal effort. You don’t need a deep fryer or a steamer basket if you use store-bought bao buns. They’re perfect for assembling a fun DIY dinner with friends or family, letting everyone build their own just the way they like it.

These bao buns are also surprisingly versatile. You can serve them as a main course, a unique appetizer, or even pack them up for a next-day lunch that won’t disappoint. Bonus: they reheat beautifully without getting soggy.

What Kind of Bao Buns Should I Use?

You can find ready-made bao buns in the frozen section of many Asian grocery stores or online. They come pre-steamed and only need a quick warm-up. Look for the folded kind that open like little pockets, perfect for stuffing. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch, but the store-bought ones will save you time and still taste amazing.

Ingredients for the Korean Chicken Bao Buns

To make these buns deliciously satisfying, we combine bold Korean flavors with a few simple pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a role in building that sweet, spicy, and umami-rich flavor profile we love.

• Chicken thighs
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Cucumber slices
• Store-bought bao buns
• Optional: pickled red onions or shredded carrots for topping

How To Make the Korean Chicken Bao Buns

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Add sliced chicken thighs and toss until well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, and the sauce becomes sticky and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Warm the Bao Buns

While the chicken cooks, steam your bao buns. If using frozen, follow the instructions on the package. Most can be microwaved with a damp paper towel or steamed on the stovetop for a few minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Bao Buns

Open each warm bao bun and layer in the cooked chicken, a few cucumber slices, and any additional toppings like pickled onions or carrots. Garnish with sliced green onions and an extra drizzle of sauce if desired.

How to Serve and Store Korean Chicken Bao Buns

These Korean chicken bao buns are best served fresh and warm, straight after assembly. They feed about 4 people as a main dish, or more if you serve them as small bites at a gathering. You can prep the chicken ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Bao buns can also be frozen and reheated as needed. Just steam again before serving.

What to Serve With Korean Chicken Bao Buns?

Quick Pickled Veggies

Bright and tangy pickled radishes or carrots add crunch and balance the spicy chicken.

Asian Slaw

A crisp cabbage slaw with sesame dressing makes a great refreshing side.

Steamed Edamame

Lightly salted edamame pods are fun to eat and great for snacking alongside.

Kimchi

A classic Korean side that adds a bold, fermented kick to your plate.

Sticky Rice or Rice Noodles

Serve with rice or noodles for a heartier meal.

Miso Soup

A light and savory soup can balance the richness of the chicken.

Spicy Mayo or Garlic Aioli

Serve on the side or drizzle inside the buns for extra creaminess.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed these Korean Chicken Bao Buns, check out these other flavorful dishes:

• Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce

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Let me know in the comments if you tried any fun variations. Did you make your own pickles? Add a spicy drizzle? I love seeing how you make these your own.

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Conclusion

Korean Chicken Bao Buns are everything you want in a handheld bite: saucy, savory, slightly sweet, and satisfying. They’re ideal for making dinner feel a little more special without tons of prep. Keep the ingredients simple, let the chicken shine, and you’ll have a dish that disappears fast from the table.

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