Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken

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Jjimdak is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. This Korean braised chicken recipe brings together tender chunks of chicken, glass noodles, and a soy-based sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and a hint of spice. It’s rich, deeply savory, slightly sweet, and full of satisfying textures that soak up the sauce beautifully.

The aroma of jjimdak simmering on the stove is irresistible. As the chicken cooks slowly in the seasoned broth with carrots, potatoes, and onions, it absorbs all the umami and spice until it nearly melts in your mouth. Paired with chewy glass noodles and served with rice or as-is, it’s one of Korea’s most beloved comfort foods for a reason.

Why You’ll Love This Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken

This dish strikes a perfect balance between homey and bold. The flavors are layered but not complicated, and the cooking method makes it hard to mess up. It’s a complete one-pot meal that brings together protein, veggies, and noodles in one glorious, sauce-soaked experience.

Not only is jjimdak a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, but it also makes an impressive centerpiece for gatherings. It’s comforting but exciting, familiar yet just different enough to make it feel special. If you love dishes like bulgogi or Korean short ribs, this will be right up your alley.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the traditional and most flavorful choice for jjimdak. The bone adds richness to the broth while the dark meat stays juicy throughout the simmering process. However, you can also use drumsticks, or a mix of thighs and legs. If you’re short on time, boneless chicken thighs work too—just reduce the cooking time slightly so they don’t overcook.

Ingredients for the Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken

The beauty of jjimdak lies in how humble ingredients transform into something unforgettable. Each component adds to the dish’s deep, layered flavor.

• Chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Onion
• Carrots
• Potatoes
• Dried Korean glass noodles (dangmyeon)
• Dried chilies or Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
• Mirin or rice wine
• Black pepper
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Sesame seeds

Each ingredient plays a role: soy sauce gives depth, sugar balances saltiness, and the vegetables add subtle sweetness. The chili brings a gentle heat, while sesame oil adds that classic toasty aroma.

How To Make the Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

Start by soaking the glass noodles in warm water for about 20 to 30 minutes. This softens them and makes them easier to stir into the dish later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, sear the chicken pieces skin-side down until golden brown. This step builds flavor at the base of the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the chicken briefly and sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add in the soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and chili flakes, letting everything bubble together.

Step 4: Braise the Chicken

Return the chicken to the pot. Add enough water to just cover the chicken, then toss in the potatoes and carrots. Cover and simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Noodles

Drain the noodles and stir them into the pot. Simmer uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes, letting the noodles soak up the sauce and finish cooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with sesame oil, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, savory goodness.

How to Serve and Store Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but many enjoy it with a bowl of steamed rice to soak up every drop of that soy-garlic sauce. It comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people depending on portion size.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. You can reheat it in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

What to Serve With Jjimdak Korean Braised Chicken?

Steamed White Rice

Fluffy white rice is a natural pairing, perfect for soaking up all the rich sauce.

Kimchi

A sharp, tangy kimchi cuts through the savory flavor and adds a fermented brightness.

Korean Cucumber Salad

Light and refreshing, this quick side balances the boldness of jjimdak.

Pickled Radish

Crunchy and sweet, it complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Korean Pancakes (Pajeon)

These green onion pancakes add a crispy contrast to the tender braise.

Stir-Fried Greens

Sautéed spinach or bok choy keeps the meal light and nutritious.

Miso Soup

Though Japanese, a light bowl of miso soup works as a gentle starter or sipper.

Korean Corn Cheese

For a fun twist, serve this cheesy, slightly sweet side with your jjimdak spread.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving this Korean braised chicken, check out these other comfort-packed meals from Luna Meals:

• Try the hearty and flavorful Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake
• Enjoy a quick and satisfying Easy Chicken Fried Rice
• Go bold with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
• Explore comfort in a bowl with Smothered Chicken and Rice
• Try something different with Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese

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Let me know in the comments how your jjimdak turned out! Did you spice it up extra? Try any special add-ins like mushrooms or rice cakes?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. And if you’ve got any questions, drop them below – let’s make dinner easier together.

Explore beautifully curated Korean and Asian comfort food on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dish!

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