Name: Delicious Korean Chicken Tacos with Crunchy Sesame Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut into 1/4-inch slices); 1/4 cup Low Sodium Shoyu or Soy Sauce (Adds umami flavor); 1 tablespoon Sugar or Honey (Balance saltiness of soy sauce); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Infuses nutty flavor); 2 tablespoons Neutral Cooking Oil (Prevents chicken from drying out); 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger; 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic; 2 cups Shredded Red Cabbage; 1 cup Julienned Carrots; 1 cup Sliced Cucumbers; 1/2 cup Chopped Green Onions; 1/2 cup Thinly Sliced Radishes; 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Lime Juice; Salt and Pepper (To taste); 1-4 teaspoons Gochujang Paste (Based on preferred heat level); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Can be swapped with mayonnaise); 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime or Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed offers best flavor); 4 pieces Tortillas (Soft or crunchy); 2 tablespoons Roasted Sesame Seeds (For garnish); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Chopped, for garnish)

In the hustle of a busy week, it can be all too easy to fall back on takeout. But what if I told you that you could whip up Korean Chicken Tacos in less time than it takes to order from your favorite place? These vibrant tacos feature tender, skillet-sautéed chicken paired with a crunchy sesame slaw, topped with a creamy Gochujang sauce that lets you control the spice levels to suit your taste. They’re not just quick to prepare; they also bring bold, healthy flavors that will make your weeknight meals a delight. Plus, the best part? You can customize them with any veggies you have on hand! Are you ready to start your taco night adventure?

Why Are Korean Chicken Tacos So Amazing?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal without any fuss.

Bold Flavors: The combination of savory chicken, crunchy slaw, and creamy Gochujang sauce delivers an unforgettable taste experience that excites the palate.

Customizable Spiciness: Adjust the heat level to fit your preference—whether you crave mild or fiery, these tacos can be tailored just for you.

Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, these tacos are as nutritious as they are satisfying, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Versatility: Swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins—try adding bell peppers or perhaps tofu for a delightful twist!

If you love a fresh take on dinner, don’t miss out on pairing these with a Mediterranean Tzatziki Chicken or some Cheesy Garlic Chicken for extra variety.

Korean Chicken Tacos Ingredients

Prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey with these Korean Chicken Tacos!

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Tender and juicy, cut into 1/4-inch slices for even cooking.
Low Sodium Shoyu or Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor; opt for low sodium to keep salt levels in check.
Sugar or Honey – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce; adjust to your taste preference.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty flavor; roasted sesame oil intensifies the taste profile.
Neutral Cooking Oil – Prevents chicken from drying out; any vegetable oil works well.
Minced Ginger & Garlic – Essential aromatics that elevate the marinade’s flavor.

For the Slaw

Red Cabbage, Carrots, Cucumbers, Green Onions, Radishes – Fresh veggies that add crunch and color to your tacos.
Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy acidity to balance flavors.
Lime Juice & White Vinegar – Dresses the slaw; enhances acidity and brightness.

For the Gochujang Sauce

Gochujang Paste – Adds spice and depth; use 1-4 tsp based on your preferred heat level for these Korean Chicken Tacos.
Greek Yogurt – Forms the creamy base for the sauce; can be swapped with mayonnaise.
Fresh Lime or Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce; freshly squeezed offers the best flavor.

To Finish

Tortillas – Choosable size to bind your taco together; soft or crunchy for your desired texture.
Roasted Sesame Seeds & Cilantro – Ideal garnishes that offer extra flavor and visual appeal.

Get ready to turn your kitchen into a taco haven with these vibrant Korean Chicken Tacos!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Chicken Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together low sodium shoyu, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, neutral cooking oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Coat the sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 2 minutes until hot. Add the marinated chicken slices in a single layer, allowing them to sear without crowding the pan. Cook for 2 minutes until browned, then flip the pieces. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw
In a separate large bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced cucumbers, chopped green onions, and thinly sliced radishes. Drizzle with rice vinegar and lime juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the slaw to stay crispy.

Step 4: Make the Gochujang Sauce
In a mixing bowl, blend together the Gochujang paste, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, roasted sesame oil, and fresh lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the heat by adding more Gochujang if desired. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the Korean Chicken Tacos.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are pliable. On each tortilla, layer the cooked chicken slices, generous scoops of the crunchy sesame slaw, and drizzle with the Gochujang sauce. Garnish with roasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for added flavor and visuals. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Expert Tips for Korean Chicken Tacos

Proper Marination: Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but letting it sit for 4 hours enhances flavor.
Heat Management: Preheat your skillet sufficiently before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear, locking in juices and flavors.
Crunchy Slaw: Toss your slaw together just before you serve it to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
Gochujang Adjustments: Start with less Gochujang in the sauce, tasting as you go to find your perfect heat level for these delicious Korean Chicken Tacos.
Batch Cooking: If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches to avoid steaming. This helps achieve that coveted golden brown appearance.

How to Store and Freeze Korean Chicken Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers. The chicken stays good for up to 4 days, while the slaw is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal crunch.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid reheating the slaw to maintain its texture.
Wraps: For meal prep, consider wrapping the tortillas around the fillings and freezing them. Just remember to separate with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

What to Serve with Korean Chicken Tacos

Elevate your taco night by pairing these vibrant Korean chicken tacos with delightful sides and beverages that enhance your meal experience.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These mild and sweet fries add a wonderful contrast to the spiciness of the tacos, creating a harmonious balance. The slight crispiness complements the tender chicken and crunchy slaw beautifully.
Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice: Infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro, this rice dish provides a flavorful base that enhances the bold flavors of the tacos. It’s a perfect palate cleanser between bites!
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: This cool, crunchy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the bold, spicy flavors in your tacos. Toss cucumbers with rice vinegar and sesame oil for an extra zing.
Mango Salsa: The sweetness of ripe mangoes harmonizes perfectly with the spicy Gochujang crema. This fresh twist adds a delicious brightness to your dinner table.
Garlic Sesame Green Beans: Quickly sautéed with garlic and sesame oil, these green beans provide a nutty, crunchy addition that ties in perfectly with the overall theme of the meal.
Chilled Soju or Sparkling Water: Complement the spice with chilled soju or a refreshing sparkling water. Both options provide a crisp, cleansing effect after the bold flavors of the tacos.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse. Its rich yet delicate texture provides a perfect contrast to the savory and spicy dish.
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A fruity iced tea, perhaps with berries or peach, refreshes the palate and adds a hint of sweetness that balances the spice of the tacos wonderfully.

Korean Chicken Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore exciting twists and options for these Korean Chicken Tacos, making them your own. Your taste buds will thank you!

Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots to the slaw for extra crunch and color. A little more texture never hurts!
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a different protein twist. This way, you can cater to all diets and preferences.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or avocado for a creamy touch without the dairy.
Spicy Upgrade: If you love heat, mix in sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes in the slaw for a fiery kick!
Vegan Delight: Use jackfruit or chickpeas instead of chicken to create a delicious plant-based version full of flavor. This alternative is unexpectedly satisfying.
Crunch Variations: Add crushed tortilla chips or toasted nuts on top for an added crunch that transforms each bite into a little adventure.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different marinades—such as teriyaki or hoisin sauce—to bring a new flavor dimension to the chicken tacos.
Tortilla Choices: Switch it up with whole-grain, lettuce wraps, or even rice paper for a gluten-free take. There are plenty of options to explore!

Pair these tacos with some Asian Chicken Cranberry for a fun meal or serve alongside Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs for a delicious twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Chicken Tacos are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time, sealing in flavors for tender, juicy results. The sesame slaw can also be prepared in advance; just toss the veggies together and refrigerate for up to 3 days—however, wait to dress it until just before serving to keep that delightful crunch. Additionally, the creamy Gochujang sauce can chill in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the marinated chicken, warm the tortillas, and assemble your tacos for a quick and satisfying meal that feels fresh and vibrant!

Korean Chicken Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my Korean Chicken Tacos?
Absolutely! Look for boneless skinless chicken breasts that are fresh and firm to the touch. Avoid any chicken with dark spots or an off smell, as these can indicate spoilage. When possible, opt for hormone-free or organic options for healthier meals.

How long can I store the leftover chicken and slaw?
Very! Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. As for the slaw, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for peak freshness; otherwise, it may lose its crunch and vibrant color.

Can I freeze the chicken for my tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze cooked chicken, place it in a resealable freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It will last for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

What should I do if my Gochujang sauce is too spicy?
No worries! If your sauce turns out too spicy for your liking, simply add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to temper the heat. Mixing in a little honey or sugar can also help balance out the flavors. If you want it milder, start with 1 teaspoon of Gochujang and increase gradually until it fits your taste.

Are Korean Chicken Tacos safe for my pets?
Not exactly! While plain chicken is generally safe for pets, the Gochujang sauce contains ingredients that can be harmful to them, such as garlic and high salt levels. It’s best to keep all seasoned preparations away from pets and provide them plain, unseasoned chicken instead.

What vegetables can I substitute in the slaw?
The more the merrier! Feel free to switch out the cabbage or add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, jicama, or snap peas. Each offers its own texture and flavor, allowing you to customize your slaw to suit your preferences! Just ensure any replacements are fresh for the best taste.