Name: Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 350g plain flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 2 teaspoons salt; 1.5 tablespoons neutral oil; 180g lukewarm water; 1lb/500g boneless, skinless free-range chicken thighs; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons gochujang paste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon chilli oil; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds; 2 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced; A handful of fresh cilantro (coriander)

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish for any occasion, Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns are the perfect choice. These fluffy buns filled with flavorful chicken will impress your family and friends with their unique Asian twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of tender chicken marinated in a spicy-sweet sauce and soft steamed buns creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
This recipe is quick and simple to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together.
Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns are also perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

Ingredient Notes:

For the bun dough –

plain flour: Adds structure and texture to the buns.
baking powder: Helps the buns rise and become fluffy.
instant yeast: A leavening agent that helps the dough to rise.
salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
neutral oil: Adds moisture to the dough.
lukewarm water: Binds the ingredients together.

For the chicken –

boneless, skinless free-range chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful meat for the filling.
salt: Seasoning for the chicken.
olive oil and sesame oil: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the chicken.
garlic cloves and ginger: Aromatic ingredients that enhance the overall taste.
gochujang paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey: Create a spicy, sweet, and savory marinade for the chicken.

To serve –

chili oil, toasted sesame seeds, scallions, and fresh cilantro: Garnishes that add color and freshness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, combine plain flour, baking powder, instant yeast, salt, neutral oil, and lukewarm water to make the bun dough.
Marinate chicken thighs with salt, olive oil, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, gochujang paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
Cook the chicken until tender and shred it into small pieces.
Divide the dough into small portions, flatten them, and fill each with the cooked chicken.
Steam the buns until they are fluffy and cooked through.
Serve the Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns garnished with chili oil, sesame seeds, scallions, and cilantro.

Helpful Tips:

Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes to ensure the buns are light and fluffy.
You can use store-bought bao buns if you’re short on time.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the bun dough for a smoother texture.
Adjust the amount of gochujang paste to suit your spice preference.
For a crispy texture, pan-fry the filled buns before steaming them.

Serving Suggestions:

Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns pair well with a side of kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Serve them with a cold glass of Korean beer or hot green tea for a complete meal experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover bao buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave until warm before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I freeze the bao buns?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked buns before steaming them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for storage. When ready to eat, steam the frozen buns directly from the freezer until cooked through.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, you can use chicken breast if preferred. Just be mindful of cooking times to prevent the meat from drying out.
How can I make the buns gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of plain flour to make gluten-free bao buns. Make sure to adjust the amount of liquid as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.

Conclusion:

Try making these Korean Chicken Steamed Bao Buns for a unique and delicious meal that will delight your taste buds. Don’t forget to share your feedback and enjoy this flavorful Asian-inspired dish with your loved ones!