Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Korean Chicken Tacos with Caramelized Kimchi Recipe

Korean Chicken Tacos with Caramelized Kimchi Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 10 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 tacos
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean Fusion
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

These Korean Chicken Tacos with Caramelized Kimchi are a delicious fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors. Tender chicken marinated in a spicy-sweet sauce, paired with caramelized kimchi, and topped with a zesty mayo, all wrapped in a warm tortilla.


Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced thin
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Caramelized Kimchi:

  • 1 cup chopped kimchi
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For Serving:

  • 6 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (optional)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, honey, garlic, and ginger. Add sliced chicken and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Caramelize the Kimchi: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped kimchi, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Cook, stirring often, for 5–7 minutes until kimchi is deeply caramelized.
  4. Prepare the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and sriracha for a spicy mayo.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Spread spicy mayo on each tortilla, top with cooked chicken, caramelized kimchi, green onions, and cilantro. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast if preferred.
  • For a vegetarian version, use tofu instead of chicken.
  • Add pickled radish or shredded cabbage for extra crunch.