Name: Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Korean-inspired
Ingredients: ½ cup filtered water; ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce; 2 to 3 tablespoons gochujang; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or coconut sugar); 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons arrowroot starch or cornstarch; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil; 6 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts divided); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large red bell pepper, chopped; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 pound lean ground chicken (or turkey); ⅓ cup roasted or toasted cashews; ½ cup fresh Thai basil or sweet basil, torn; Toasted sesame seeds; Reserved scallions (green part only); Extra fresh torn basil; Cooked white or brown rice

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you have been searching for a dish that brilliantly combines bold flavors with a comforting bowl of goodness, then the Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together the deep umami and gentle heat of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with tender ground chicken, crisp bell peppers, and fragrant fresh herbs. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to share with friends or family. The harmony of sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory notes makes every bite a delightful experience you will want to revisit often.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the image, there is a white pan with a gold handle filled with a dish made of small, pale beige crumbled pieces mixed with bright red bell pepper chunks and bits of green herbs or scallions spread evenly throughout. A wooden spoon is placed inside the pan, partly lifting some of the mixture. Near the upper edge of the image are two white bowls, one filled with light-colored cashew nuts and the other with a dark brown sauce containing small bits, both set on a white marbled surface. A few cashew nuts are scattered beside the bowls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on the Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe is a breeze thanks to its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing and nutritious.

Filtered water: Used to mellow the sauce while helping the cornstarch thicken it perfectly.
Low sodium soy sauce: Brings savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Gochujang (2 to 3 tablespoons): The heart of the dish, lending its signature sweet-spicy kick and rich color.
Toasted sesame oil (2 tablespoons for sauce + 1 tablespoon for cooking): Adds a nutty aroma and silky mouthfeel.
Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Provides the necessary tang to balance sweetness.
Brown sugar or coconut sugar (2 tablespoons): Sweetens the sauce naturally without clashing with spices.
Fresh grated ginger (1 tablespoon): Injects a warm, zesty note that’s subtle but essential.
Garlic cloves (6 total): Minced to intensify savory layers; split between sauce and veggies for maximum flavor.
Arrowroot starch or cornstarch (2 teaspoons): A thickening agent to give the sauce that lovely glaze consistency.
Scallions (6, sliced): Divided between cooking and garnish to maintain freshness and texture contrast.
Large red bell pepper (1, chopped): Contributes crunch, sweetness, and vivid color that makes the dish pop.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning throughout the dish to bring out every flavor.
Lean ground chicken (1 pound): The tender protein base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Roasted or toasted cashews (⅓ cup): Adds a crunchy, nutty surprise in every bite.
Fresh Thai basil or sweet basil (½ cup, torn): For a fragrant finish that elevates the dish to a new level.
Cooked white or brown rice: The perfect canvas to soak up all those luscious juices.
Toasted sesame seeds (to garnish): Little bursts of crunch and toasty flavor that add elegance.

How to Make Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the sauce

Start by whisking together all the sauce ingredients—filtered water, soy sauce, gochujang, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and arrowroot starch—in a medium bowl until smooth. This mixture is the soul of your Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe, offering an exciting balance of sweet heat and tang that will cling beautifully to every morsel of chicken you cook. Set it aside while you move on to the next steps so those flavors can marry together.

Step 2: Cook the chicken and vegetables

Heat a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the white parts of the scallions, chopped red bell pepper, and minced garlic along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir occasionally as you cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness. Then, gently push the peppers to the edges of the pan and add the ground chicken in the center. Break it up quickly with your spatula and cook until no pink remains, about 5 to 6 minutes. This method ensures the chicken cooks evenly and picks up those wonderful aromas from the vegetables.

Step 3: Stir in the sauce and cashews

Turn the heat down to low, then add the roasted cashews and the prepared sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the sauce thicken and cling to the chicken and vegetables, while the cashews add a rich, crunchy texture. Once thickened, remove from heat and fold in the fresh torn basil leaves, or hold some back for garnish if you prefer to keep the herbaceous punch fresh and vibrant at serving time.

Step 4: Garnish and plate

Now comes the fun part—assembling your bowls! Spoon the flavorful chicken mixture over a bed of warm cooked rice, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, reserved green scallion slices, and extra torn basil. These final touches add both texture and a burst of fresh flavor that make your Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe truly shine.

How to Serve Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe

A large white pan filled with a spicy stir-fry dish, showing three main layers: the bottom has tender pieces of light brown cooked chicken, mixed with medium-sized bright red bell pepper chunks; the middle layer contains whole golden cashew nuts and wilted dark green basil leaves; the top layer is sprinkled with small white and black sesame seeds and chopped light green scallions. A brown wooden spoon rests inside the pan. Around the pan, there is a small white bowl with black and white sesame seeds and another white bowl with sliced light green scallions, all on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes are not just decoration here; they bring contrast and brightness to every bite. Toasted sesame seeds contribute a subtle nuttiness and crunchy contrast, while the green scallion tops add a pop of color and fresh flavor. Don’t skip the extra fresh basil sprinkled on top—it lifts the dish like a breath of fragrant herbal air.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides to complement its bold flavors. Lightly steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas add freshness and a crisp bite. A quick cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and sesame oil offers a cool, tangy counterpoint. And for a heartier meal, a side of kimchi can enhance that Korean-inspired experience.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your guests, try serving the Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe in colorful bowls topped with edible flowers or extra toasted nuts. You can also scoop the chicken mixture into lettuce cups for an interactive, low-carb option that’s both fun and fresh. Another idea is to layer everything in mason jars for portable lunch bowls that keep the ingredients intact until you’re ready to enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe, store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner the next day. Keep the rice separate if possible to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, especially the cooked chicken mixture without the rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, or defrost gently in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Reheat rice separately to preserve its texture, fluffing it with a fork before serving.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Lean ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and absorbs the sauce just as well, offering a slightly different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.

What if I don’t have gochujang? Is there a substitute?

Gochujang is unique, but you can mix miso paste with a touch of chili paste and a little honey or sugar to mimic the sweet, spicy, and umami flavor. Keep in mind the flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be tasty.

Is this dish spicy? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat level comes mainly from the gochujang, which has a mild to moderate spice. To make it milder, use less gochujang or add a bit more sugar to balance the heat. For extra kick, increase the gochujang or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground chicken with firm tofu crumbles or cooked tempeh, and use vegetable-based sauces instead of soy sauce if preferred. The cashews and vegetables still provide great texture and taste.

How do I store leftovers to keep vegetables crisp?

To maintain the best texture, keep the cooked vegetables separate from the sauce and chicken if possible. Store them in airtight containers and add them back just before reheating or serving for a fresher bite.

Final Thoughts

The Sweet and Spicy Gochujang Chicken Bowls Recipe is one of those dishes that makes every mealtime feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. The combination of vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and quick preparation is a total win. I hope you’ll love making and sharing this bowl of deliciousness as much as I do—trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!