Low Sodium Buldak (Korean Fire Chicken)

Turn up the heat with this Low Sodium Buldak (Korean Fire Chicken), a healthier take on the fiery Korean classic that doesn't compromise on bold flavors. Tender, bite-sized chicken thighs are marinated in a mouthwatering blend of reduced-sodium gochujang, gochugaru, garlic, ginger, and a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup. The savory heat is perfectly balanced with low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil, creating a rich, spicy-sweet sauce. Topped with melty low-fat mozzarella cheese and garnished with fresh scallions, sesame seeds, and cilantro, this dish delivers an irresistible combination of spice and comfort. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s the perfect meal to pair with steamed rice or crisp veggies for a guilt-free indulgence in Korean cuisine. SEO keywords: Korean fire chicken, low sodium buldak, spicy chicken recipe, healthy Korean recipes, quick dinner ideas.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons gochujang (fermented Korean chili paste), reduced sodium
• 1 cup water
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine gochugaru, low-sodium soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, gochujang, and water. Stir well to create a marinade.

Step 3

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the marinated chicken along with the sauce.

Step 5

Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken.

Step 7

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish the dish with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.

Step 9

Serve the Low Sodium Buldak hot, ideally with steamed rice or vegetables on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1008.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1309.6

Total Fat 68.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.9g
Cholesterol 444.7mg	0%
Sodium 2808.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 69.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.2g	0%
Total Sugars 43.4g
Protein 112.0g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 949.5mg	0%
Iron 7.2mg	0%
Potassium 1484.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.8%

Protein: 33.5%

Carbs: 20.7%