Introduction

Korean-style roast chicken offers a delightful fusion of flavors that draws inspiration from traditional Korean cuisine. This dish brings together spicy, sweet, and savory elements, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Jamie Oliver’s recipe highlights the simplicity of roasting chicken while infusing it with the iconic tastes of Korea. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
– 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Prep Time

Preparation for the Korean-style roast chicken takes approximately 15 minutes. This includes mixing the marinade and preparing the chicken for roasting.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking the chicken generally requires about 1 hour and 15 minutes in the oven, depending on the size of the chicken. The total time from prep to serving is around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe yields enough servings for 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for families or gatherings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (450°F). Prepare a whole chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a crispy skin.

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). You can add minced garlic and ginger to enhance the flavor. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated. For best results, let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator if time permits.

Prepare for Roasting

Once marinated, take the chicken out of the marinade and reserve the excess liquid. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.

Roast the Chicken

Put the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 1 hour. Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor and moisture.

Check for Doneness

Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part of the thigh. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.

Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for a more flavorful and moist chicken.

Serve with Sides

Carve the chicken and serve it with your choice of sides. It pairs well with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

Flavor Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the amount of gochugaru based on your spice preference. You can also add additional ingredients like lime juice for a touch of acidity.

Storage Recommendations

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be shredded and used in salads or wraps for future meals.

Cooking Equipment

Ensure you have a reliable roasting pan and a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness accurately.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If preferred, you can also cook the chicken on a grill or in a slow cooker, adjusting the cooking times accordingly for different methods.

Cook techniques

Marinade

Marinating the chicken in a combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey enhances the flavor and tenderizes the meat.

Roasting

Roast the chicken at a high temperature to achieve crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.

Glazing

Baste the chicken with the marinade during roasting to create a sticky, caramelized glaze that adds an extra layer of flavor.

Resting

Allow the chicken to rest after roasting to let the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice remains moist and flavorful.

Serving suggestions

Serve the chicken with a side of rice and fresh vegetables to complete the meal and balance flavors.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken pieces or even a spatchcocked chicken, but cooking times may vary.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade in advance and let the chicken marinate overnight for better flavor.

What if I don’t have honey?

You can substitute honey with brown sugar or maple syrup for a similar sweetness.

Is there a vegetarian option?

You could try marinating and roasting a whole cauliflower or a selection of root vegetables for a delicious vegetarian equivalent.

Conclusion

The Korean-style roast chicken offers a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. This dish makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering and is sure to please both chicken lovers and those seeking new culinary experiences. Enjoy the crispy skin and succulent meat paired with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a memorable meal that resonates with a hint of Korean cuisine.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Asian-inspired Chicken Wings

Serve deliciously crispy chicken wings coated in a tangy teriyaki sauce for an appetizing starter that aligns well with the Korean theme.

Kimchi Fried Rice

Pair your roast chicken with flavorful kimchi fried rice, combining perfectly fermented vegetables with a soft rice base for a satisfying side dish.

Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Complement your meal with spicy roasted Brussels sprouts, tossed in gochujang for added heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Sesame Ginger Cucumber Salad

A refreshing cucumber salad featuring sesame oil and ginger will provide a crisp contrast to the rich chicken, making for a balanced dish.

Korean BBQ Beef Tacos

For a fun twist, consider Korean BBQ beef tacos topped with slaw and spicy mayo to introduce another layer of flavor and a hand-held option.

Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake

End your meal on a sweet note with a light and creamy matcha green tea cheesecake, revealing a delightful Japanese influence.