Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam

Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4 · Technique: Skillet Cooking · Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Quick Answer

To make Gochujang Chicken Burgers topped with Kimchi Bacon Jam, combine ingredients, cook patties in a skillet, and assemble with jam for a delicious fusion twist.

As the crisp autumn air wraps around New York City and the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving bold flavors that warm the soul. My latest culinary obsession has been these Gochujang Chicken Burgers topped with Kimchi Bacon Jam. With Thanksgiving and Christmas gathering around the corner, this dish not only brings to the table an impressive twist on classic comfort food but also a delightful fusion of Korean and American flavors that your guests will rave about.

A Flavorful Twist for Holiday Gatherings

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Unique fusion of Korean and American flavors that will impress your guests.
• Bold and spicy Gochujang chicken patties that pack a flavorful punch.
• Homemade Kimchi Bacon Jam adds a sweet and savory element to every bite.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed for days, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather everything you need to make these delicious Gochujang Chicken Burgers and Kimchi Bacon Jam.

Gochujang Chicken Burgers

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Oil for cooking

Kimchi Bacon Jam

• 6 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced
• 1 cup kimchi, chopped
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced

How to Make Gochujang Chicken Burgers (Step-by-Step)

Here's a simple guide to creating these mouthwatering Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam.

Step 1: Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam

In a skillet over medium heat, start by adding diced bacon. Cook until crisp and golden brown, letting the fat render out and fill your kitchen with a smoky aroma. Stir in the chopped kimchi, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and minced ginger. Allow the mixture to cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until sticky and caramelized. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Burgers

In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with gochujang, green onions, garlic, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Gently mix using your hands to avoid overworking the meat. Shape the mixture into four even patties, each about an inch thick for that perfect juicy bite.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Sear for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Toast the hamburger buns until golden brown, preferably with a pat of butter for added flavor. Place the cooked chicken patties on the buns, generously spoon the Kimchi Bacon Jam on top, and close with the top bun.

Step 5: Serve with a Smile

These delicious burgers can be served alongside sweet potato fries or a crisp salad, making for a complete meal that your guests will enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overworking the Meat: When mixing the chicken with the ingredients, be gentle. Over-mixing can lead to tough patties.
• Uneven Patties: Ensure your patties are uniformly sized to cook evenly. A kitchen scale can help ensure consistency.
• Underestimating the Heat: If your skillet isn't hot enough, the burgers may steam instead of sear, leaving you with less flavor and texture.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your heat preference. A milder palette may prefer less.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding lettuce, sliced cucumber, or avocado for extra crunch and freshness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare and shape the chicken patties a day ahead, storing them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

Variations

• Replace ground chicken with turkey or lean beef for a different flavor profile.
• Use vegan ground meat or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Swap kimchi for a spicy salsa or roasted peppers if preferred.

How to Serve

• Accompany with sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
• Serve with a crisp salad to add freshness.
• Pair with a refreshing beverage, such as iced tea or a light beer, to balance the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare and shape the chicken patties a day ahead, storing them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
• Storage: These burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: Cooked patties and Kimchi Bacon Jam can be frozen separately for up to three months.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

During my testing, I discovered that the balance of flavors in the Kimchi Bacon Jam elevates the burger to a whole new level - the sweet, salty, and spicy notes work harmoniously! This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it creates a memorable sensory experience that embodies the spirit of gathering with loved ones during the festive season.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 4 burgers · Serving Size: 1 burger

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 30g protein · 25g carbs · 20g fat

FAQs

What is gochujang, and how does it affect the flavor of the burgers?

Gochujang is a Korean red chili paste made from fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and red chili powder. It adds a unique depth of flavor, offering both heat and a slight sweetness that elevates the taste of the chicken burgers.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the burgers?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken. The flavors will still complement the kimchi bacon jam, providing a delicious alternative while keeping the dish healthy.

How can I store leftovers of the Gochujang Chicken Burgers?

Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The Kimchi Bacon Jam can be stored separately and will improve in flavor over time.