Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam

Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are a fiery, flavor-packed fusion of Korean-inspired heat and smoky, savory goodness. Juicy ground chicken patties seasoned with gochujang are grilled or pan-seared to perfection, then topped with a rich kimchi bacon jam that’s tangy, sweet, and umami-loaded. These burgers are bold, unforgettable, and perfect for when you want something truly next-level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor – Sweet, spicy, smoky, and tangy in every bite.
• Unique & Gourmet – A creative twist on the classic burger that feels restaurant-worthy.
• Juicy Chicken Patties – Gochujang adds moisture and a deep, savory heat.
• Incredible Toppings – Kimchi bacon jam adds punch and texture like nothing else.
• Customizable Heat – Easily adjust the spice level to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Burgers:

• Ground chicken (preferably thigh meat)
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Green onions, finely chopped
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Burger buns (brioche or potato rolls work great)

For the Kimchi Bacon Jam:

• Bacon, chopped
• Kimchi, chopped
• Brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, finely diced

Optional Toppings & Add-Ons:

• Mayo or spicy mayo
• Fresh greens (like arugula or shredded cabbage)
• Sliced cucumber or pickles
• Fried egg (for extra indulgence)

Directions

1. Make the Kimchi Bacon Jam – Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove most of the fat, then add onion and garlic. Sauté until soft. Add chopped kimchi, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Simmer until thick and jammy, then let cool.
2. Prepare Chicken Patties – In a bowl, mix ground chicken with gochujang, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Form into burger patties.
3. Cook the Burgers – Grill or pan-sear patties over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
4. Toast the Buns – Toast buns lightly on the grill or skillet for extra flavor.
5. Assemble the Burgers – Spread mayo on the buns, add the chicken patty, top with kimchi bacon jam and any other desired toppings.
6. Serve Immediately – Enjoy hot with fries, slaw, or a cold beer.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 burgers
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Make it Spicier – Add more gochujang or top with sliced jalapeños.
• Lettuce Wraps – Serve in butter lettuce for a low-carb option.
• Turkey or Beef Option – Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken.
• Vegetarian Twist – Try a grilled tofu patty with the same seasoning and jam.
• Korean BBQ Vibe – Add a splash of bulgogi marinade to the chicken mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked patties and jam separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave. Warm jam on the stove or briefly in the microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties (with parchment between) for up to 2 months. Cook from thawed.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that’s spicy, slightly sweet, and full of umami flavor.

Can I make the kimchi bacon jam ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to a week and gets even better over time.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a medium spice level. Adjust the gochujang to suit your heat preference.

What’s the best ground chicken to use?

Thigh meat has more fat and stays juicy—avoid ultra-lean breast meat if possible.

Can I grill these burgers?

Absolutely—just be sure to oil the grates well, as chicken patties are softer than beef.

What buns work best?

Soft brioche, potato rolls, or sesame seed buns are all great choices.

Is the jam sweet or savory?

It’s a balance of both, with smoky bacon, tangy kimchi, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—there’s no dairy in the patties or jam. Just skip the mayo or use a dairy-free version.

How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?

Mix the ingredients well and chill patties before cooking if needed. Don’t flip too early.

Can I use store-bought kimchi?

Yes, any store-bought kimchi will work—choose one with bold, tangy flavor for the best jam.

Conclusion

Gochujang Chicken Burgers with Kimchi Bacon Jam are a spicy, savory explosion of flavor that takes the humble burger to bold new heights. From the juicy, gochujang-laced patties to the deeply satisfying kimchi bacon jam, every element is crafted for crave-worthiness. Perfect for summer grilling, weekend indulgence, or your next gourmet burger night—this recipe is sure to impress.

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