Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I took my first bite, the sweet and spicy notes danced on my palate, instantly transporting me to a bustling street market in Seoul. These Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam offer a unique twist on the classic burger, blending flavors of gochujang, garlic, and smoky bacon that sing together in perfect harmony. Not only are they quick to whip up—making them a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner—but they’re also a customizable delight, allowing you to swap ingredients or toppings to suit your taste. Let’s kick your burger game up a notch with these irresistible burgers that are sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Ready to fire up the skillet? Why are these burgers a must-try? Unforgettable Flavor: Each bite bursts with the tantalizing taste of gochujang, perfectly complemented by savory bacon jam. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, these burgers can be on your table in under 30 minutes! Customizable Goodness: Feel free to switch out the protein or add your favorite toppings, like spicy mayo or fresh avocado. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress your guests. Spice things up even more by serving them with Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken for a fun twist! Balanced Nutrition: Lower in calories than traditional beef, these burgers still pack a punch of high protein goodness. Grab some buns and get ready for a flavor-packed meal! Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers Ingredients For the Patties • Ground Chicken – Lean and perfect for a lighter burger; turkey is a great substitute! • Panko Breadcrumbs – Adds delightful texture; feel free to use regular breadcrumbs or omit for gluten-free. • Gochujang Sauce – The star of the show, providing that signature spicy-sweet flavor; adjust to your heat preference. • Garlic Powder – Infuses savory notes; fresh garlic can ramp up the flavor further. • Coarse Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall taste; swap for sea salt if you prefer. For the Bacon Jam • Bacon – Rich and smoky, taking these burgers to the next level; turkey bacon can be a lighter option. • Kimchi – Adds crunch and bold flavor; try pickled vegetables for a different twist. • Brown Sugar – Balances the spice beautifully; honey or maple syrup works well too. For Assembly • Buns – The perfect foundation; choose whole grain or gluten-free for a healthy touch. • Cheese (optional) – Creamy layer of goodness; gouda makes a great choice or simply omit for dairy-free. • Cilantro or Greens – Freshness that brightens each bite; substitute with green onions if you like. • Mayo – Creamy and tangy, adding depth; mix sriracha for a spicy mayo twist. • Cucumber Slices – Crunchy and refreshing, they lend a nice bite; replace with radishes for a spicy kick. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam Step 1: Cook the Bacon In a skillet, cook 4-5 slices of bacon over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add ½ cup of chopped kimchi and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the skillet, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture is caramelized and aromatic. Step 2: Prepare the Patties In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons gochujang, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Shape the mixture into 4-5 equally sized patties, each about ¾ inch thick, for even cooking during the next steps. Step 3: Cook the Patties Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken patties, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The patties should be golden brown on the outside while remaining juicy inside, embodying the essence of Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers. Step 4: Toast the Buns While the patties cook, take your burger buns and place them cut-side down in the skillet for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. This will provide a delightful crunch and help hold all the toppings together. Toasting also enhances the flavor and adds a lovely texture to your Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers. Step 5: Assemble the Burgers Spread a generous layer of mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Pile on the bacon kimchi mixture, followed by fresh cilantro or greens and cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch. Finally, place the cooked chicken patties on top, adding cheese if desired, before finishing with the top half of the bun. Your Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam are now ready to serve! Make Ahead Options These Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken patties up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ground chicken with panko, gochujang, garlic powder, and salt, then shaping them into patties. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. The bacon jam, made the same day or up to 3 days ahead of time, can be refrigerated in an airtight container. When you are ready to serve, simply cook the patties and assemble your burgers as directed; they’ll be just as delicious and juicy, offering you a flavorful meal with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers Marinate for Flavor: Let the ground chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in gochujang to deepen the flavors of your Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers. Don’t Overmix: Keep the patties tender by mixing ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture—treat them kindly! Perfect Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the patties to lock in juices. Resist the urge to press down while they cook! Serve with Sides: Pair these flavorful burgers with sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal that dazzles. Customize Toppings: Get creative! Top with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mayo to amp up the heat and flavor of your burgers. What to Serve with Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam These vibrant burgers are a fantastic choice for creating a delightful full meal that thrills the senses. Whether you’re keeping it casual or impressing guests, pairing is key! Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and naturally sweet, they contrast beautifully with the spicy flavors of the burger. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing dish that complements the heat, adding a crisp, cooling element to every bite. Kimchi Fried Rice: This flavorful side enhances the bold Korean flavors, creating a wonderful fusion experience on your plate. Asian Slaw: A crunchy blend of cabbage and carrots, tossed with sesame dressing – it adds texture, color, and a burst of freshness. Grilled Corn: Smoky and sweet, fresh corn on the cob enhances the summer vibes and pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors. Beer or Sparkling Water: A light lager or crisp sparkling water complements the spice while refreshing your palate. Green Tea: Offering a mild, earthy flavor profile, green tea is a lovely drink option that contrasts beautifully with savory elements. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat provides a delightful balance of flavors following the spicy burger, ending the meal on a high note. Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers Variations Feel free to get creative with these variations, adding your own flair to these delightful burgers! Turkey Option: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner alternative. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns for a tasty twist. Spicy Kick: Add extra gochujang or sliced jalapeños to crank up the heat for spice lovers. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the patties for a rich smokiness that beautifully complements the bacon. Kimchi Substitute: Trade kimchi for pickled carrots or daikon for an equally satisfying crunch with a milder flavor. Creamy Avocado: Top your burger with avocado slices for a creamy texture that enhances the overall taste and adds healthy fats. Cheese Twist: Swap cheese types, using pepper jack for a spicy kick, or go without for a dairy-free option. Sweet Addition: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the patty before serving for a delightful sweet-savory experience. Don’t forget to check out these flavor-packed options too: serve your burgers alongside Spicy Honey Pepper or enjoy them with a plate of Bacon Brown Sugar chicken tenders for a twist on the traditional! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers Fridge: Store cooked Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them juicy and ready for quick meals. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain quality for up to 3 months; just thaw before cooking. Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating. Airtight Storage: Ensure any stored burgers are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn, helping you enjoy their delicious, spicy flavor when you’re ready! Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ground chicken for burgers? Absolutely! Look for ground chicken that is bright pink without any dark spots. Organic or free-range options tend to have better flavor and quality. If possible, choose ground chicken labeled as “dark meat” for a juicier experience, as it contains more fat than breast meat. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store your cooked Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side. This helps maintain that delightful crispy exterior! Can I freeze the patties for later use? Yes, you can freeze your Spicy Korean Chicken Patties! After shaping them, place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed. What should I do if the patties are falling apart while cooking? No worries! If your patties are falling apart, it’s usually due to not enough binder. Adding more panko breadcrumbs or chilling the patties for about 10 minutes before cooking can help them hold shape better. Make sure not to overmix the ingredients, as this can lead to a tough texture. Are these burgers suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Very! You can easily customize your Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers to accommodate dietary needs. Use gluten-free buns or omit the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. For those with egg allergies, substitute the mayo with avocado or a vegan alternative. If you have concerns about allergies, be sure to check labels on sauces and condiments. Irresistible Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam These Spicy Korean Chicken Burgers with Bacon Jam combine gochujang, garlic, and smoky bacon for a unique and delicious twist on a classic burger. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 burgersCourse: ChickenCuisine: KoreanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Patties1 pound Ground Chicken Turkey is a great substitute.1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can be used or omit for gluten-free.2 tablespoons Gochujang Sauce Adjust to your heat preference.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can ramp up the flavor further.1 teaspoon Coarse Kosher Salt Swap for sea salt if preferred.For the Bacon Jam4-5 slices Bacon Turkey bacon can be a lighter option.1/2 cup Kimchi Try pickled vegetables for a different twist.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Honey or maple syrup work well too.For Assembly4 buns Buns Choose whole grain or gluten-free for a healthy touch.1 cup Cheese (optional) Gouda makes a great choice or omit for dairy-free.1/2 cup Cilantro or Greens Substitute with green onions if desired.1/2 cup Mayo Mix sriracha for a spicy mayo twist.1/2 cup Cucumber Slices Replace with radishes for a spicy kick. Equipment skilletMixing bowlMeat Thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a skillet, cook 4-5 slices of bacon over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add ½ cup of chopped kimchi and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the skillet, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until caramelized.In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons gochujang, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt. Mix gently until just combined, shape into 4-5 patties, each about ¾ inch thick.Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken patties, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.Toast the burger buns cut-side down in the skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.Spread mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Pile on the bacon kimchi mixture, fresh cilantro or greens, and cucumber slices. Top with the cooked chicken patties and cheese, then finish with the top bun. Nutrition Serving: 1burgerCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg NotesLet the ground chicken marinate for 30 minutes in gochujang for enhanced flavor. Keep patties tender by mixing gently and avoid pressing down while cooking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
