Olympic Seoul Chicken

Every time I think of the Olympic Seoul Chicken, I’m transported back to my travels in South Korea. The bustling streets filled with the aroma of sizzling chicken, the vibrant colors of the markets, and the warm smiles of the locals evoke a sense of home and nostalgia. This dish holds a special place in my heart, not just for its tantalizing flavors but also for the memories of sharing meals with my loved ones. Imagine gathering around a table, laughter and joy filling the air, as everyone digs into a plate of this delicious chicken. The sweet and savory notes of the marinade wrap around the tender pieces, making every bite a true delight. As I began to recreate this beloved dish at home, it transformed into a family favorite, a recipe that brings us all together.

The Olympic Seoul Chicken stands out for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The marinade is a simple mix of pantry staples, yet it packs a punch of flavor that’s truly unforgettable. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s straight from a bustling Korean street food market.

Recipe Ingredients for Olympic Seoul Chicken

When crafting the Olympic Seoul Chicken, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors. The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy ingredients come together to form a delectable marinade that seeps into the chicken, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. Let’s dive into the key players that make this dish shine:

• 1/4 cup unseasoned white or rice vinegar: Adds a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness of other ingredients.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: This ingredient brings a rich umami flavor and saltiness that enhances the overall taste.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Provides a sweet note that mellows out the savory elements, creating a harmonious blend.
• 1 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, spicy aroma that pairs well with the chicken.
• 8 chicken thighs, skinned: A juicy and flavorful choice that absorbs the marinade beautifully.
• 10 cloves garlic, peeled and minced or grated: Adds depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder, or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a kick of spice to elevate the dish.
• Optional: a handful of chopped green onions, including the dark green part, for garnish: A colorful garnish that adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Olympic Seoul Chicken

Making the Olympic Seoul Chicken is a straightforward process that yields incredible flavors. Follow along as we guide you through each step to create this delightful dish:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and minced ginger. This marinade is the secret to infusing your chicken with delicious flavor. Once combined, set it aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Next, heat enough oil in a large skillet until it just covers the bottom, about 2 tablespoons. When the oil is hot and shimmering, it’s time to sauté the chicken thighs. Add them to the skillet and cook until they are well-browned on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy exterior.
3. Now, it’s time to add the aromatic elements! Toss in the garlic and chili powder. Stir constantly for approximately 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn. You want it to be fragrant, not bitter, so keep an eye on it!
4. Pour in the prepared vinegar mixture over the browned chicken. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to ensure any flavorful bits stuck to the pan are released. This adds depth to your dish. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes. During this time, the chicken will continue to cook and absorb all the lovely flavors.
5. While the chicken is simmering, gently turn it a couple of times in the marinade. This ensures every piece gets an equal amount of flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
6. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the cover and check the thickness of the sauce. If you like it a bit thicker, allow it to cook uncovered for an additional minute or so. This will help intensify the flavors and create a luscious sauce.
7. If using, add the chopped green onions to the skillet for an extra pop of color and flavor. Stir them in and cook for about another minute, just until they’re slightly wilted.
8. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and let the Olympic Seoul Chicken sit for a minute. This resting phase allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
9. Serve your Olympic Seoul Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that delicious sauce on top!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

The beauty of the Olympic Seoul Chicken lies in its adaptability. Here are some suggestions for how you can make this dish your own:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, kimchi, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Variations: Experiment with different proteins like tofu or pork for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Spicy Kick: Add additional spices such as sriracha in the marinade for an extra kick.

Side Dish Ideas for Olympic Seoul Chicken

Pairing your Olympic Seoul Chicken with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some delicious options to consider:

• Steamed Rice: A classic choice, steamed rice absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying plate.
• Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish offers a tangy and spicy contrast that complements the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds provides a crisp texture.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables adds a nutritious and vibrant touch to your meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: Korean pickled vegetables work as a great palate cleanser between bites of the savory chicken.
• Seaweed Salad: Light and flavorful, this salad brings a unique texture and taste that pairs well with the dish.
• Perfect for Gatherings: The Olympic Seoul Chicken is a fantastic centerpiece for family dinners or gatherings, sparking joy and conversation around the table.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Olympic Seoul Chicken is a fantastic dish that captures the essence of Korean cuisine right in your home. With its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, it’s a dish that promises to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about the joy of sharing great meals with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!

Olympic Seoul Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Olympic Seoul Chicken is a sweet and savory delight that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy weeknight recipe brings the bold flavors of Korean cuisine to your table. Make it tonight and enjoy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Dinner

Cuisine Korean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Peeler
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup ml white or rice vinegar unseasoned
• 3 tablespoons ml soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ml honey
• 1 inch cm fresh ginger peeled and minced
• 8 chicken thighs skinned
• 10 cloves garlic peeled and minced or grated
• 1 1/2 teaspoons teaspoon chili powder or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• handful green onions optional for garnish

Instructions

 

• Mix together the vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and minced ginger in a small bowl. Set aside.
• Heat enough oil in a large skillet until it just covers the bottom, about 2 tablespoons. When it’s hot and shimmering, sauté the chicken thighs until well-browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
• Add the garlic and chili powder and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn’t burn.
• Pour in the vinegar mixture, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any stuck on bits of garlic, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the thighs are cooked through. While the thighs are cooking, turn them a couple of times in the marinade.
• Once they’re done, remove the cover, add the green onions, if you wish, and cook for another minute or so, until the sauce is slightly thickened.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, kimchi, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Experiment with different proteins like tofu or pork for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Tip 5: Add additional spices such as sriracha in the marinade for an extra kick.

Keyword Authentic Korean Cuisine, easy chicken dinner, Korean chicken recipe, Sweet and Savory Chicken

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.