Name: Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 small fresh pear, sliced (preferably D’Anjou pear); 1 small white onion, sliced; 2 green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts; ¼ cup soy sauce; 1½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar; ½ tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh ginger; 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced or cubed into 1 inch pieces; 1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into matchsticks; Vegetable oil, for cooking (about 2-4 tablespoons)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor and tenderness, you must try this Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe. This Korean classic features juicy chicken marinated in a luscious sauce made from fresh pear and onion purée, combined with a harmonious blend of soy, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. The sauce’s subtle fruity sweetness perfectly balances the savory elements, creating a truly irresistible meal that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl with a dotted pattern holds raw light pink chicken pieces sitting in a dark soy sauce base that edges the bowl. On top of the chicken, there are five main piles: a large white grated texture on the right side; bright green chopped scallions in the center; a small heap of golden brown sugar granules above the scallions; finely chopped pale yellow garlic to the left; and bright yellow minced ginger below the garlic. The background is a white marbled surface with a striped cloth partially visible at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple yet essential each ingredient is, contributing not only to the depth of flavor but also to the delightful texture and vibrant color that make the dish visually mouthwatering. Every component plays a role in building that perfect balance of fruity sweetness and savory richness.

1 small fresh pear: Provides a natural sweetness and tenderizing effect, enhancing the chicken’s juiciness.
1 small white onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and sweetness when pureed with the pear.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, sliced thin or cubed for quick cooking and easy marinade absorption.
2 green onions: Freshness and mild onion flavor, sliced finely to mix into the marinade.
¼ cup soy sauce: The salty backbone of the marinade, providing umami depth.
1½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness that’s signature to Korean cuisine.
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar: Enhances the sauce’s natural sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
½ tablespoon rice vinegar: Introduces a touch of acidity to balance the sweet and savory flavors.
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh ginger: Delivers a warm, zesty kick to brighten the dish.
4 cloves garlic: Brings pungency and depth, essential for that classic bulgogi taste.
1 medium carrot: Adds crunch and a pop of vibrant color, cut into matchsticks.
Vegetable oil: For cooking the chicken evenly and achieving a slight crispness.

How to Make Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fruity Sauce Base

Begin by adding the sliced pear and white onion to a blender. Puree them until smooth, adding a tablespoon or two of water if the mixture is too thick. This step is key because the pear not only provides natural sweetness but also helps tenderize the chicken, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your thinly sliced or cubed chicken breasts into a large bowl. Pour in the pureed pear and onion blend along with the green onions, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, dark brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Finally, fold in the crunchy carrot matchsticks for texture. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours. This rest time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Marinated Chicken

Heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add half of the chicken pieces, excluding the leftover marinade, cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and repeat with the remaining pieces, adding oil as needed. This two-batch method ensures that the chicken sears perfectly without steaming.

Step 4: Finish with the Sauce

Return all the cooked chicken pieces to the pan and pour in the remaining marinade. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and thicken. This final step infuses every bite with the rich, fruity, and savory flavors that make this Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe so special.

How to Serve Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe

On a white plate, there are two main layers: cooked white rice fills the left half with a fluffy texture and a few green onion pieces sprinkled on top, while the right half has a reddish-brown saucy mixture with chunks of cooked protein that looks soft and moist, garnished with fresh green cilantro leaves and chopped green onions. Around the plate on a white marbled surface, there are bowls of shredded orange cheese and chopped green onions, a fresh cilantro bunch, a silver fork and spoon crossed beside the plate, and a piece of fresh ginger root. The scene is bright and clean with a casual dining feel photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish wonderfully. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for added crunch and a lovely nutty aroma. A handful of thinly sliced green onions gives that fresh pop of flavor and color. For a little heat, consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or thinly sliced fresh chili. These simple touches bring brightness and contrast to the rich bulgogi sauce.

Side Dishes

Chicken Bulgogi pairs beautifully with classic Korean sides. Steamed white rice is a must to help soak up that irresistible sauce. You can also serve it alongside kimchi for a tangy, spicy contrast, or a crisp salad with a light sesame dressing to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bok choy complement the flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little creative, turn this dish into a Korean BBQ wrap by serving it with crisp lettuce leaves and an assortment of banchan (small side dishes). You can also use the cooked chicken as a flavorful topping for bibimbap or toss it with cold noodles for a refreshing meal. The versatility of this Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe means you can enjoy it in many delicious forms.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover chicken bulgogi to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate is not necessary here, as the flavorful marinade continues to infuse the chicken even after cooking.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Place the cooled bulgogi in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the bulgogi gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or a bit more sesame oil can help restore moisture and revive the sauce’s richness. Avoid microwaving if possible as it may dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.

What type of pear is best for the fruity sauce?

D’Anjou pears are ideal due to their sweet, mellow flavor and firm texture. However, other ripe pears can work as well, just ensure they are not overly grainy.

Can I make this recipe without marinating overnight?

While marinating for at least two hours is recommended for best flavor and tenderness, if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will help infuse the chicken somewhat. Just know the depth of flavor improves with longer marinating.

Is this dish spicy?

By default, this Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe is mildly sweet and savory without spicy heat. You can easily add spice with chili flakes or fresh peppers if you prefer.

What can I serve instead of rice as a side?

Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a light noodle salad are excellent alternatives that provide a nice contrast to the rich bulgogi sauce.

Final Thoughts

Diving into this Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe is like inviting a burst of Korean flavor right into your home kitchen. It’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also impressively balanced with sweet, savory, and umami notes. I promise, once you try making it, it will quickly become one of your favorite comfort meals to share with friends and family. So go ahead and give it a whirl—you’re in for one delicious treat!

Chicken Bulgogi with Fruity Savory Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need