If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor, has a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, and comes out with beautifully crispy skin and juicy meat, then this Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe is absolutely for you. This recipe takes the classic comfort of rotisserie chicken and elevates it with an irresistible Korean-inspired marinade that seeps deep into the meat. Every bite delivers a harmony of rich soy sauce, fragrant sesame oil, a touch of honeyed sweetness, and that signature kick from gochujang. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a new favorite to serve when you want something effortless yet impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from tenderizing the chicken with acidity to layering the marinade with sweet, salty, and spicy notes, culminating in a golden, crispy finish.
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs): The perfect size for roasting evenly and feeding a small group with succulent meat.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds deep umami and saltiness to the marinade for that rich Korean BBQ taste.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma and smoothness that enhances every bite.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
- 3 tbsp honey: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes during cooking for a beautiful glaze.
- 3 tbsp brown sugar: Works alongside honey to amplify the caramelization and add depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chicken with savory warmth and a bit of bite.
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated: Offers a fresh, slightly spicy kick and balances the marinade perfectly.
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste): The soul of Korean BBQ, this adds complexity, spice, and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds: For garnish that gives a subtle crunch and toasty flavor.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and mild onion flavor as garnish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Used to rub the chicken before roasting, ensuring crispy skin.
How to Make Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by whisking together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and gochujang in a bowl. The key is to stir until the sugar and honey dissolve completely, creating a smooth, fragrant marinade that’s bursting with depth and balanced flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your whole chicken into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken, making sure it gets into every nook and cranny. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better if you have the time. This soaking process ensures the chicken absorbs all those incredible Korean BBQ flavors, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re fortunate enough to have a rotisserie machine, prepare the chicken according to its instructions for that unbeatable rotisserie crispiness and even cooking.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
If roasting in the oven, start by rubbing the chicken with vegetable oil and seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan with the breast side facing up. Roast for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature registers 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye out for that irresistibly golden skin that’s crispy to the touch.
Step 5: Baste for Moisture and Flavor
Every 20 to 30 minutes during roasting, baste the chicken with any leftover marinade. This crucial step prevents the chicken from drying out while layering on more moisture and color, giving that signature glossy sheen that makes Korean BBQ chicken so mouthwatering.
Step 6: Finish and Rest
Once the rotisserie chicken is perfectly cooked, carefully remove it from the oven or rotisserie. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute inside the meat. Before serving, shower the chicken with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a final burst of flavor and presentation. This Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe is ready to wow!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes go a long way here. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions on top to add color, texture, and a hint of freshness. These small touches elevate the dish visually and taste-wise, adding that light crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
Side Dishes
Pair your Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe with steamed rice and sautéed or steamed vegetables—think bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas—for a balanced and colorful dinner. For a more adventurous meal, serve it alongside kimchi or pickled cucumbers to bring in traditional Korean sides that complement the sweet and spicy marinade beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, shred the rotisserie chicken and use it as a filling for Korean-inspired tacos or sandwiches with a drizzle of sriracha mayo. You can also slice it thinly over a fresh salad with sesame dressing, or cube it for a hearty bibimbap bowl. This versatility makes the Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe perfect for leftovers or casual family meals alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy its deliciousness even the next day without losing any of that fantastic Korean BBQ zing.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken for longer, slice or shred it before freezing. Pack it tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Freezing is a great option for prepping meals or reducing food waste.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe is to gently warm it in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the meat. Carefully reheated chicken will still taste juicy and tender, preserving the marinade’s rich flavors.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be marinated and cooked similarly, though roasting times will be shorter. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure juicy results.
What can I substitute for gochujang if I don’t have it?
Gochujang has a unique balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. If you can’t find it, try mixing a bit of chili paste with some miso or a touch of honey to mimic its complexity. Keep in mind, the flavor won’t be exactly the same but still delicious!
Is marinating overnight necessary?
While two hours is enough for flavor infusion, marinating overnight greatly enhances the depth and tenderness of the chicken. If you plan ahead, it’s definitely worth the wait.
Can I make this recipe on a grill?
Yes, grilling the chicken using indirect heat or rotisserie attachment on your grill is a fantastic option that adds a smoky touch, complementing the Korean BBQ flavors beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most reliable method is using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the skin should be golden and crispy.
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about this Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe. It combines simplicity and bold flavors in a way that makes dinner feel special without fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, the juicy, savory, and slightly sweet chicken will have everyone raving and asking for seconds. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy that satisfying taste of Korean BBQ right from your own kitchen!
Print
Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
This Korean BBQ Rotisserie Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken infused with a flavorful marinade of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang. Roasted to perfection with a crispy golden skin, this dish brings a delicious Korean-inspired BBQ experience perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
For Roasting and Garnish
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for roasting)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and gochujang until the honey and sugar are fully dissolved and you have a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the whole chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to develop maximum flavor.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you have a rotisserie attachment, prepare the chicken according to its instructions.
- Roast the chicken: If roasting traditionally, rub the chicken with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper. Place it breast side up on a roasting rack inside a pan. Roast for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
- Baste the chicken: Every 20 to 30 minutes, carefully baste the chicken with leftover marinade to maintain moisture and enhance flavor during cooking.
- Finish and serve: When the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot alongside steamed rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight deeply enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
- If using a rotisserie, follow your machine’s instructions for proper chicken mounting and cooking time.
- Reserved marinade can be used to baste but should not be consumed raw to avoid foodborne illness risks.
- Adjust the level of gochujang for milder or spicier heat according to your preference.
