Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups - delicious and flavorful bite-sized meal

Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups

by
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Discovering Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups

Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups are a delightful fusion of savory flavors wrapped in bite-sized goodness. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, combining the smoky sweetness of grilled chicken with a hint of sesame and fresh vegetables—all conveniently nestled in rice cups. With years of culinary experience in Asian cuisine, I’ve crafted this dish to ensure that anyone, from first-time cooks to seasoned chefs, can recreate it effortlessly.

Why Make This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Flavorful: The marinade brings a perfect balance of sweet and savory, tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.
  2. Nutrition Packed: With lean protein, fresh veggies, and wholesome rice, these cups provide a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
  3. Perfect for Meal Prep: These rice cups are easy to make in bulk, making them an excellent option for busy weekdays or family gatherings.
  4. Culinary Adventure at Home: Experience the exciting flavors of Korean cuisine without stepping foot in a restaurant.
  5. Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love the fun presentation, and it’s a great way to involve them in cooking.

Personally, I love this recipe because it perfectly blends comfort food with healthy ingredients, making it an all-in-one dinner solution that everyone enjoys.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 15 minutes
  • Total time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty level: Easy
  • Cooking method: Grilling and baking

This recipe involves marinating and grilling chicken before combining it with seasoned rice and fresh veggies, all held together in an easy-to-eat cup format.

My Experience Making This Recipe

The first time I made these rice cups, I underestimated how much flavor the marinade would impart. I marinated the chicken for the full hour, and the richness of the taste was phenomenal. One challenge I faced was ensuring the rice was sticky enough to hold its shape; after a few tries, I discovered that using short-grain rice made all the difference!

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups

To create these rice cups, you’ll start by marinating the chicken. Combining soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic forms a deep, aromatic marinade. While the chicken grills, you’ll prepare your rice by cooking it with a splash of sesame oil for flavor. Once everything is ready, you’ll assemble your rice cups using muffin tins, layering the rice, pieces of grilled chicken, and your choice of veggies.

Expert Tips for Success

  1. Marinate Wisely: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal if you have the time.
  2. Rice Selection: Use short-grain rice or sushi rice for better stickiness and structure when molding the cups.
  3. Grill at High Heat: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking the chicken. This gives you those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear.
  4. Fresh Veggies: Adding a mix of colorful vegetables not only enhances flavor but also adds visual appeal.
  5. Use Non-Stick Spray: Before placing rice in muffin tins, use a quick spray of non-stick cooking spray to make for easy removal.

How to Serve Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups

  1. Garnish Beautifully: Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.
  2. Side Dishes: Serve with a side of kimchi or a light cucumber salad for an added crunch and spice.
  3. Pack for Lunch: These rice cups are perfect for on-the-go lunches—simply pack them in meal prep containers.
  4. Event Ready: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or potlucks, impressing guests with the presentation and flavors.

Storage and Reheating Guide

To store leftover rice cups, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, these cups can be frozen for up to a month. When reheating, microwave for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for some heat.
  2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
  3. Herb Flavors: Add cilantro, mint, or Thai basil to the rice for a fresh twist.
  4. Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar before baking for a gooey, melty surprise.

Nutritional Highlights

Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups are not only flavorful but also nutritious. They are high in protein from the chicken, low in saturated fat, and packed with vitamins from the vegetables. Each serving is balanced, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters. Common allergens include soy (soy sauce) and sesame, so keep that in mind if serving to guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. Rice Won’t Stick: If your rice isn’t sticking together well, try using short-grain rice and ensure it’s cooked with a bit more water.
  2. Burning on the Grill: If the chicken is burning before cooking through, lower the heat and grill over indirect heat until fully cooked.
  3. Dry Chicken: To prevent dry chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I make the rice cups in advance?
    Yes! You can prepare the rice cups ahead of time and store them in the fridge for easy reheating.

  2. What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version?
    Use tamari or coconut aminos, which offer similar flavor profiles without gluten.

  3. How do I prevent the rice from drying out?
    Ensure you have the right water-to-rice ratio, and consider adding a splash of broth for moisture when cooking.

  4. Can I substitute chicken for something else?
    Absolutely! These cups work well with shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a twist.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Korean BBQ Chicken Rice Cups

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-free option available
Print Recipe

Description

Delicious fusion of savory flavors wrapped in bite-sized goodness, combining smoky grilled chicken with fresh vegetables in rice cups.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup mixed fresh vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, etc.)
  • Sliced green onions for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic to make the marinade.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to high heat and grill the marinated chicken until cooked through.
  4. While the chicken is grilling, cook the rice with a splash of sesame oil.
  5. Once the chicken is done and rice is cooked, lightly grease muffin tins with non-stick spray.
  6. Layer the rice, grilled chicken, and fresh veggies in the muffin tins to form cups.
  7. Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling and Baking
  • Cuisine: Korean

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star