If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal with a fiery kick, this Spicy Gochujang Baked Chicken Rice Casserole is about to become your new obsession. Imagine tender chicken baked in a rich, savory-slightly-sweet gochujang sauce, mixed with fluffy rice that absorbs every drop of flavor. As it bakes, your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of toasted sesame, garlic, and warm chili heat. Each bite is bold, creamy, perfectly spicy, and so satisfying you’ll want to go back for seconds—maybe thirds.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Korean-inspired flavor thanks to gochujang’s unique spicy-sweet depth
- One-pan convenience—easy prep, easy cleanup
- Perfect texture combo of juicy chicken and tender, saucy rice
- Family-friendly spice level (you can adjust the heat!)
- Comfort food with a twist, great for busy weeknights
- Meal-prep friendly, reheats beautifully
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups uncooked jasmine rice, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 ½ lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
For the Gochujang Sauce:
- 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional for mild sweetness)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- A drizzle of sesame oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the rinsed jasmine rice evenly in a casserole or baking dish. Add the chicken broth and water. This ensures your rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the spicy, savory goodness.
Step 2: Season & Sauté the Aromatics
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant—this is where that irresistible aroma begins. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for one minute.
Step 3: Mix the Gochujang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ketchup, paprika, and black pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or heat to your liking.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Add the sautéed vegetables and raw chicken pieces on top of the rice. Pour the gochujang sauce evenly over everything. Use a spoon to lightly mix the top so the sauce coats the chicken well.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes to reduce the sauce and lightly crisp the edges. The chicken should be tender, and the rice should be fully cooked and fluffy.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with a little sesame oil and top with green onions and sesame seeds for that final burst of flavor and freshness.
Tips & Variations
- Add veggies: Try adding zucchini, peas, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Adjust the heat: Reduce or increase the gochujang depending on your spice tolerance.
- Protein swap: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef strips.
- Creamier version: Add ¼ cup coconut milk for a silky, richer texture.
- Extra crunch: Top with roasted seaweed strips or crispy fried onions.
What to Serve With It
This spicy, hearty casserole pairs beautifully with:
- A simple cucumber salad
- Kimchi for extra tangy heat
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
- A cool dollop of Greek yogurt or Korean mayo
- Pickled radishes for a crunchy balance
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice tender.
Nutrition & Calories
Approximate values per serving (serves 6):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~52g |
| Protein | ~26g |
| Fat | ~12g |
Conclusion
This Spicy Gochujang Baked Chicken Rice Casserole gives you everything you crave in one comforting dish—heat, depth, tenderness, and pure satisfaction. With every bite, you’ll taste the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and smoky flavors soaked deeply into fluffy rice and juicy chicken. It’s simple enough for weeknights but bold enough to impress anyone at your table. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
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