When it comes to creating a burger that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor, why settle for the ordinary? Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam elevate your typical burger to new heights with bold, savory, and slightly spicy Korean-inspired ingredients. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, spicy-sweet gochujang, and the umami-packed Kimchi Bacon Jam creates an unforgettable culinary experience that will have you coming back for more.
In this blog post, we’ll walk through every detail of how to prepare these mouthwatering Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam, offering tips, variations, and serving suggestions to ensure your burger night is one to remember. From the unique flavor profiles of the ingredients to step-by-step instructions on how to assemble your burger, we’ve got you covered.
Ingredients for Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
Before we dive into the preparation, let’s make sure you have all the ingredients for your Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam. These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that you’ll be excited to savor.
For the Gochujang Chicken Patties:
- Ground Chicken: 1 pound (you can use thigh meat for extra juiciness)
- Gochujang: 2 tablespoons (a Korean chili paste that brings depth and heat)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (adds a savory base flavor)
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated (gives a fresh, spicy zing)
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (for saltiness and umami)
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (adds a nutty flavor)
- Scallions: 2, finely chopped (for freshness and crunch)
- Bread Crumbs: ½ cup (helps bind the patties and keeps them tender)
- Egg: 1, beaten (helps to hold the mixture together)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste (for seasoning)
For the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- Bacon: 6 strips, chopped (adds smokiness and richness)
- Kimchi: 1 cup, finely chopped (fermented cabbage gives a tangy, spicy kick)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped (brings sweetness and depth)
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons (balances the tanginess of the kimchi)
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (enhances the umami flavor)
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (adds a hint of acidity)
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (rounds out the jam’s flavor)
For the Assembly:
- Burger Buns: 4 (lightly toasted)
- Lettuce: 4 leaves (for crunch)
- Sliced Cucumbers: ½ cup (adds freshness and crisp texture)
- Sriracha Mayo: (optional, for an extra layer of spice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start assembling the magic. Follow these detailed steps to create your Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam.
1. Prepare the Gochujang Chicken Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped scallions. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Add the bread crumbs and beaten egg to the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the patties stay moist and flavorful.
- Once the mixture is ready, form it into four equal-sized patties. Press the center slightly to ensure they cook evenly.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Once hot, cook the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown.
- Remove from the heat and set aside to rest while you prepare the Kimchi Bacon Jam.
2. Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped kimchi and cook for another 2–3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Let the mixture simmer for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes jam-like in consistency.
- Add the cooked bacon back into the pan, stirring to combine everything. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce or vinegar if needed. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Gochujang Chicken Burgers:
- Lightly toast the burger buns in a toaster or on a skillet until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Spread a generous amount of sriracha mayo on the bottom half of each bun (optional but highly recommended for extra flavor).
- Place the Gochujang chicken patty on the bun and top with a generous spoonful of Kimchi Bacon Jam.
- Add a leaf of fresh lettuce and a few slices of cucumber for added crunch and freshness.
- Place the top bun on, and your Gochujang Chicken Burger with Kimchi Bacon Jam is ready to serve!
Tips for Perfect Gochujang Chicken Burger
- Patty Consistency: If your mixture feels too dry, add a little more sesame oil or soy sauce. If it’s too wet, add extra breadcrumbs to help bind everything together.
- Flavor Balance: Gochujang can vary in heat, so be sure to taste and adjust according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder burger, reduce the amount of gochujang or balance it out with a bit more sugar in the Kimchi Bacon Jam.
- Crispy Bacon: For the best bacon texture, make sure it’s crisped up properly before adding to the jam. This will give your burger an irresistible crunch.
- Customize the Heat: If you love heat, feel free to add extra chili flakes or hot sauce to the Kimchi Bacon Jam, or layer it in between the patties and the bun for an added kick.
Variations on Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam
While this recipe is already packed with flavor, you can mix things up by making a few simple changes to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
1. Swap Ground Chicken for Ground Turkey or Beef:
If you prefer beef or turkey, you can easily substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef. Each variation will bring a slightly different flavor profile, but the gochujang and kimchi bacon jam will still shine through.
2. Add Pickled Vegetables:
For added tang and crunch, top your burger with some quick-pickled vegetables such as daikon radish, carrots, or even a bit of kimchi. These will enhance the overall flavor balance and add an extra layer of texture.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground oats. Choose a gluten-free bun to keep it fully compliant with gluten-free diets.
4. Spicy Mayo Twist:
If sriracha mayo is too basic for your taste, consider making a spicy mayo with a kick of kimchi or gochujang. This will give your burgers an even more dynamic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are rich, savory, and spicy, making them perfect for a wide range of accompaniments. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with these burgers:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of crispy sweet potato fries contrasts beautifully with the spicy heat of the burgers.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw with sesame oil and rice vinegar will complement the burgers and add a refreshing bite.
- Grilled Corn: Serve up some grilled corn on the cob, brushed with a little sesame butter and lime juice, for an extra summery touch.
- Kimchi Fried Rice: For an extra Korean twist, serve the burgers with a side of kimchi fried rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors of Korean cuisine in a familiar burger format. With perfectly seasoned chicken patties, the umami-packed Kimchi Bacon Jam, and a few simple but impactful garnishes, you’ll be serving up a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a weekend BBQ, looking for a weeknight dinner, or craving something different, this recipe is an absolute winner.
Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam Recipe
Description
A perfect fusion of savory, spicy, and smoky flavors, these Gochujang Chicken Burgers are elevated with a tangy Kimchi Jam made without pork, creating a mouthwatering, flavorful experience. The umami-packed burger patty combines with the rich, zesty kick of gochujang, while the kimchi jam provides a smoky and fermented punch. Ideal for a fun dinner or BBQ, this unique burger will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
For the Gochujang Chicken Patties:
For the Kimchi Jam:
For Assembling:
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, gochujang, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty. Set aside.
Make the Kimchi Jam:
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat. Add the chopped kimchi and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. Crumble the smoked tempeh or tofu into the kimchi mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Chicken Patties:
- Heat a grill or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F). If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns lightly. On the bottom half of each bun, layer the shredded lettuce. Place a cooked chicken patty on top, followed by a generous spoonful of the kimchi jam. Top with pickled cucumbers if desired, and cover with the top half of the bun.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 777.83kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 50.13g78%
- Saturated Fat 14.18g71%
- Trans Fat 0.13g
- Cholesterol 156.81mg53%
- Sodium 1206.8mg51%
- Potassium 630.67mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 41.31g14%
- Dietary Fiber 2.23g9%
- Sugars 13.23g
- Protein 39.96g80%
- Vitamin A 186.96 IU
- Vitamin C 3.03 mg
- Calcium 331.41 mg
- Iron 4.13 mg
- Vitamin D 0.6 IU
- Vitamin E 2.84 IU
- Vitamin K 46.01 mcg
- Thiamin 0.41 mg
- Riboflavin 0.54 mg
- Niacin 11.42 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.59 mg
- Folate 57.14 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.9 mcg
- Phosphorus 448.39 mg
- Magnesium 69 mg
- Zinc 3.59 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store any leftover patties and kimchi jam separately in airtight containers. The patties can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge, while the kimchi jam will last up to 5 days.
Variations: For a less spicy option, reduce the amount of gochujang in the chicken patties, or omit the chili flakes from the jam. You can also use turkey or beef instead of chicken for the patties.
