Follow for even more recipes every week!

This BBQ Gochujang Chicken is packed with bold flavors: sweet, smoky, and spicy with a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. Gochujang, honey, and sesame oil combine to create an addictively rich sauce that coats tender, juicy chicken. Serve it over steamed rice with greens for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!

A full view of a BBQ gochujang chicken rice bowl featuring thick slices of caramelized chicken glazed in a spicy, sweet, and smoky Korean-style sauce. Nestled over fluffy white rice and accompanied by blanched bok choy, this dish balances heat and freshness in a visually vibrant and satisfying dinner perfect for Asian recipe lovers.

What makes BBQ Gochujang Chicken So Good?

The magic of this Korean-inspired BBQ chicken comes from the gochujang, a deep, slightly smoky chili paste that brings spice, umami, and a subtle sweetness. Gochujang is a fermented product (like kimchi and sauerkraut) made from chilis, rice, aromatics (such as garlic, onions, sesame), sweetener such as sugar and salt. When combined with honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil, gochujang creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully, creating a sticky, sweet coating that enhances the juiciness of the chicken. You can find gochujang in any Asian food market or in the Asian food aisle at your local grocery store. You’ll likely see many different brands and sizes but don’t be overwhelmed. Gochujang lasts a long time and is a great condiment. Try it as is or thinned out with a little water to add a little spicy kick and umami to your favorite dishes. Be adventurous: it’s your food, eat it how you like!

Brushing a vibrant gochujang barbecue marinade onto raw chicken thighs in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. The rich red glaze is thick and glossy, coating the chicken evenly to prepare it for roasting or air frying. This step ensures a flavorful, sticky, and caramelized crust in the final BBQ gochujang chicken dish—perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.

An Easy & Flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Recipe

Making BBQ Gochujang Chicken in the air fryer cuts down on cook-time while delivering that crispy, caramelized finish. No need for messy grills or frying, just marinate, air fry, and glaze! For easier clean up, use an air fryer liner. Plus, this method keeps the chicken juicy and tender with minimal effort. If you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry, pre-heat the oven to 390°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is done. Oven-baking won’t create that caramelized finish the way an air fryer can, but it will still be delicious!

A glossy, perfectly caramelized piece of BBQ gochujang chicken lifted by metal chopsticks over a full rice bowl. The charred edges highlight the umami-rich glaze, while the tender meat shows off juicy, flavorful layers. This close-up shot showcases the irresistible texture and bold Korean-inspired flavors that define this gochujang chicken recipe.

What to Pair It With

This dish is incredibly versatile! You can make it a meal by serving it over steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing, or with steamed greens like bok choy or spinach for a balanced meal. If you’re opting for a fresh, low-carb option, wrap the BBQ Gochujang Chicken in lettuce cups.