Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken : A Family Favorite Recipe

Korean cuisine has gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. The bold flavors of garlic, soy sauce, sesame, and a touch of spice create a unique experience that brings depth to any meal. This slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken recipe takes the essence of Korean BBQ and infuses it with the ease of slow cooking, making it an accessible and delicious option for dinner.

Whether you’re a seasoned Korean cuisine enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe will make you fall in love with Korean flavors. The combination of tender chicken, sweet and spicy BBQ sauce, and the convenience of the slow cooker results in a meal that’s both hassle-free and full of flavor. Let’s dive in and explore how to make this perfect dish!

Why Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken is the Ultimate Dinner Recipe

When it comes to busy weeknights, slow cooker meals are a game-changer. They allow you to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort. This slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken recipe is no different. All you need is some chicken, a few simple ingredients, and your trusty slow cooker to create a mouthwatering dinner. Here’s why it’s the ultimate dinner recipe:

Minimal Preparation: The ingredients are simple, and the prep time is short. Once the chicken is marinated and placed in the slow cooker, you can leave it to cook while you focus on other tasks.
Tender, Juicy Chicken: Slow cooking the chicken ensures it becomes tender and juicy, with all the flavors of the marinade infused into each bite.
Versatile: You can serve the chicken with rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables. You can even use the chicken to make sandwiches or wraps for leftovers.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels by modifying the amount of gochujang or other ingredients to suit your taste. Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Prefer more spice? Use extra chili paste.

What Makes Korean BBQ Chicken Unique?

At the heart of Korean BBQ chicken is gochujang, a spicy fermented chili paste that gives the dish its signature kick. The flavor profile of gochujang is deeply umami, with fermented rice and soybeans creating a complexity that is unparalleled in many other cuisines. When paired with the sweetness of honey, the richness of soy sauce, and the nutty aroma of sesame oil, it results in a sauce that’s both sweet and spicy.

How to Make Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Here’s how to make your slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken from start to finish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This ensures the marinade sticks better to the chicken.
In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients—soy sauce, honey, mirin, garlic, ginger, gochujang, sesame oil, and onion powder. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable plastic bag or a glass container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to slow cook. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the marinade afterward) and place the chicken drumsticks into the slow cooker.
You can also line the slow cooker with a slow-cooker liner to make cleanup easier.
Set your slow cooker to cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. The goal is to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 180°F, ensuring it’s tender and fully cooked.

Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce

While the chicken is slow cooking, it’s time to prepare the BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat while whisking frequently. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes. The sauce should thicken slightly and become glossy. Remove from the heat.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, carefully remove it from the slow cooker.
Place the drumsticks on a broiler pan or baking sheet, skin side up.
Preheat your broiler and position the pan on the top rack. Broil the chicken for 2-4 minutes or until the skin becomes slightly charred and crispy. This step adds a lovely texture to the chicken.

Step 5: Glaze and Garnish

Brush the chicken drumsticks with the homemade Korean BBQ sauce. This will give the chicken a rich, glossy finish.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for an added burst of flavor and color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Korean BBQ chicken with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp, Asian-inspired slaw.
If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips and Variations for Your Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

To ensure that your slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken comes out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips and variations you can try. These will help you fine-tune the recipe and make it more personalized to your taste preferences.

Adjusting the Spice Level

The star of this recipe is gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste that provides the signature heat and umami flavor. However, the heat level of gochujang can vary by brand, so it’s important to adjust the amount based on your tolerance for spice.

Here are a few ways to tweak the heat:

Less Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the gochujang by half and add a little extra honey to balance out the sweetness. This will give the dish a more subtle kick.
More Spice: If you enjoy a spicier version, increase the gochujang by a tablespoon or two. You can also add some red pepper flakes or fresh chili for an extra punch.

Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Preferences

Korean BBQ chicken is a versatile dish, and you can modify it to suit different dietary needs. Here are some substitutions you can make:

Chicken Alternatives: While this recipe uses drumsticks, you can easily swap them for chicken thighs or boneless chicken breasts. Both cuts work well in the slow cooker and absorb the marinade beautifully.
Soy Sauce Alternatives: For those following a gluten-free or low-sodium diet, use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos as a substitute for regular soy sauce.
Sugar-Free: If you want to reduce sugar intake, substitute the honey and brown sugar with stevia or erythritol to keep the sweet and spicy balance without the added calories.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Ideas

This recipe is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and reheats easily. Here’s how to prepare it for the week ahead:

Cook in Bulk: You can double or triple the recipe and store extra servings in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal when you’re in a rush.
Freezing: If you want to prepare it even further ahead, cook and cool the chicken, then store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.
Leftover Ideas: Use the leftover chicken to make wraps, sandwiches, or salads. The sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken pair wonderfully with fresh greens or even in a bibimbap (a traditional Korean rice dish).

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Korean BBQ Chicken

While Korean BBQ chicken is delicious on its own, you can elevate the meal with these tasty sides that complement the sweet and savory flavors:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The soft and fluffy rice balances out the richness of the chicken and helps soak up the BBQ sauce.
Kimchi: A traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage or radishes. Its tangy, spicy flavor adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the chicken.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing will add freshness and texture.
Grilled Vegetables: Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can be grilled to bring out their natural sweetness and serve as a perfect side.
Pickled Vegetables: Add some tangy, pickled cucumbers or radishes to cut through the richness of the chicken.

What Makes Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Stand Out

What sets slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken apart from other BBQ recipes is its ability to retain all the unique, complex flavors of traditional Korean BBQ, but with much less effort. The long, slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb the marinade, resulting in deeply flavored meat that’s tender and juicy.

Furthermore, making the BBQ sauce from scratch gives you full control over the sweetness, spice, and saltiness of the dish. No need to rely on store-bought sauces when you can make something better and more customizable at home.

Here’s why you should choose this recipe over other BBQ chicken options:

Tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken: The slow cooker works its magic, making the chicken super tender while keeping it moist.
Complex flavors: The balance of spicy, sweet, salty, and savory flavors in the sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Simple preparation: With just a few steps and a slow cooker, this dish requires little effort but yields outstanding results.
Versatile: This recipe can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Enhance the Flavor with Homemade Garnishes

While Korean BBQ chicken is delicious on its own, adding homemade garnishes will take it to the next level. Here are some ideas for garnishing your dish:

Green Onion Curls: If you’re looking to make your dish more visually appealing, thinly slice green onions and curl them into a decorative spiral. To do this, soak the slices in ice water for about 30 minutes before serving. This simple garnish adds freshness and a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the savory sauce. To toast sesame seeds, simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a great herb to add brightness and freshness to the dish. Its subtle citrusy flavor contrasts beautifully with the rich, spicy BBQ sauce.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

Korean BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that help balance the flavors and textures of the dish. Here are some delicious options to serve with your meal:

Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment for any Korean BBQ dish, steamed rice is the perfect base for soaking up the rich flavors of the sauce. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even jasmine rice for a fragrant touch.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish made of fermented vegetables adds a tangy, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the chicken. It’s a must-have for a truly authentic Korean BBQ experience.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy, refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing is the perfect side dish to add texture and balance out the richness of the chicken.
Sautéed Vegetables: Simple sautéed vegetables, like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, offer a light, healthy side that complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
Grilled Pineapple: For a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, serve some grilled pineapple on the side. The caramelized edges of the pineapple pair wonderfully with the spicy BBQ sauce.

Korean BBQ Chicken in the Instant Pot: A Faster Version

While the slow cooker version of this recipe is great for busy days when you want a set-it-and-forget-it meal, if you’re short on time, you can use an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process. Here’s how:

Sauté the Chicken: First, sauté the chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. This step helps lock in the flavor before pressure cooking.
Pressure Cook: Add the marinade ingredients and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for about 15 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release.
Crisp the Skin: If you want crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil it for a few minutes to achieve the charred finish.

Using the Instant Pot will give you the same delicious results in a fraction of the time, making it an excellent option for last-minute meals or busy weeknights.

Experiment with Different Meats

Although this recipe uses chicken drumsticks, feel free to experiment with other meats to create new variations of this dish:

Pork: Pork is another great option for this BBQ sauce. Use pork shoulder or pork ribs for a rich and tender texture. The slow cooking process will melt the fat and make the meat incredibly tender, while the sauce infuses deep flavor.
Beef: For a richer, more robust flavor, try using beef short ribs or flank steak. These cuts of beef benefit from slow cooking and will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Tofu (for a vegetarian option): If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, tofu can be marinated and slow-cooked in the same BBQ sauce. While it won’t have the same texture as chicken, it will absorb the sauce and become flavorful and tender.

Spice Up Your BBQ Sauce with Extra Ingredients

The homemade BBQ sauce in this recipe is sweet, spicy, and savory, but you can add extra ingredients to tailor it to your tastes:

Rice Vinegar: Adding a teaspoon of rice vinegar will brighten up the sauce with a subtle tanginess, balancing out the sweetness.
Orange Juice: For a citrusy twist, add a bit of fresh orange juice. It will provide a fresh burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey and brown sugar.
Hoisin Sauce: To add extra depth and sweetness, a tablespoon of hoisin sauce is a great addition. It’s a staple in Korean cooking and adds a rich, umami flavor to the sauce.
Chili Paste: If you prefer even more heat, incorporate additional chili paste or chili flakes into the BBQ sauce. Adjust to your spice tolerance.

Troubleshooting: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, but don’t worry—here are a few common issues you may face while making slow cooker Korean BBQ chicken, and how to solve them:

Chicken Too Dry: If your chicken turns out dry, it may have cooked for too long. The slow cooker can vary, so always check the internal temperature early. Aim for 180°F for tender, juicy chicken.
Sauce Too Thin: If your BBQ sauce turns out too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes on the stove, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the sauce.
Skin Not Crispy: If the skin doesn’t crisp up as much as you’d like, place the chicken under the broiler for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning. Alternatively, you can crisp the chicken in a hot oven after slow cooking.

FAQs on Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken

How do you slow cook Korean BBQ chicken?

To slow cook Korean BBQ chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and other ingredients. After marinating, place the chicken in your slow cooker, setting it to cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours. Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and broil for a few minutes to crisp the skin. Finally, coat the chicken with the homemade BBQ sauce and garnish before serving.

Can I put raw chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can put raw chicken directly into a slow cooker. The slow cooking process will safely cook the chicken, making it tender and flavorful. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. For the best results, marinate the chicken first to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

How to make barbecue pulled chicken in a slow cooker?

To make barbecue pulled chicken in a slow cooker, season the chicken with your preferred spices or BBQ rub. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour over your favorite BBQ sauce. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender. Once cooked, shred the chicken with two forks and toss it in the sauce. Serve it on buns or with a side of coleslaw for a delicious meal.

How do you cook Gochujang chicken in a slow cooker?

To make Gochujang chicken in a slow cooker, marinate the chicken with gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and honey. After marinating, place the chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until tender. Once done, broil the chicken briefly to add a crispy finish, then brush with extra Gochujang sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Will BBQ sauce burn in a slow cooker?

BBQ sauce generally won’t burn in a slow cooker, but it’s important to add it at the right time. If you add BBQ sauce too early, it may caramelize and become overly thick. To avoid burning, it’s best to add the sauce during the last hour of cooking or after the chicken is cooked. This will allow the sauce to heat through and coat the chicken without becoming overly thick or scorched.

Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe Card

Ingredients:

8 chicken drumsticks (or thighs)
1/3 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons mirin or cooking sherry
3 cloves garlic, pressed
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons gochujang (Korean fermented chili paste)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Korean BBQ Sauce:

3 tablespoons ketchup
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, pressed
1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, mirin, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and gochujang.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (up to 24 hours).
Slow Cook the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker, skin side up. Set the slow cooker to cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours, until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 180°F and is tender.
Make the BBQ Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together all BBQ sauce ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Heat the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Broil the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a broiler pan or baking sheet, skin side up.
- Broil the chicken in the oven for 2-4 minutes, or until the skin begins to crisp and char slightly.
Glaze the Chicken:
- Brush the chicken with the homemade Korean BBQ sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions.
Serve:
- Serve the Korean BBQ chicken with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy with rice, a slaw, or your favorite sides!

Notes:

Chicken Alternative: You can use chicken thighs or boneless chicken breasts if preferred. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using boneless breasts to avoid overcooking.
Gochujang Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang depending on your spice preference. Start with half the amount for a milder flavor.
Marinate Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving: 1 Drumstick with BBQ Sauce):

Calories: 170 kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 700mg