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Homemade Gochujang Butter Chicken Lettuce Boats recipe photo
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Gochujang Butter Chicken Lettuce Boats

This Gochujang Butter Chicken Lettuce Boats recipe is bursting with bold, spicy, and buttery flavors wrapped in crisp lettuce for a fresh, light meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Korean
Keyword: Easy, Low-Carb, Quick, Spicy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • Butter lettuce leaves for wrapping
  • Sliced cucumber for topping
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  • Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
  • In a small bowl, combine gochujang, unsalted butter, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir well until the butter softens and all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth sauce.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they start to brown. Flip the chicken and pour the sauce over the pieces. Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and coated in a glossy, thick sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Carefully separate the butter lettuce leaves and wash them gently. Pat dry with a paper towel. Spoon the cooked chicken mixture into each lettuce leaf. Top with sliced cucumber, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and freshness.
  • Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the lettuce crisp. These boats are perfect for eating with your hands and make an excellent light dinner or party appetizer.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Small Bowl

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful meat compared to chicken breasts.
  • Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spice level – start with 1 tablespoon if you prefer milder heat.
  • Pat the lettuce leaves dry to prevent sogginess when assembling the boats.
  • Toast sesame seeds lightly before garnishing for a nuttier flavor.
  • Store leftover chicken separately from lettuce to keep leaves crisp, reheating chicken gently before serving.