Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces. In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, mirin, sugar (or corn syrup), minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This is the heart of your buldak recipe sauce.
Step 2: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. The longer the marinade, the more potent your buldak recipe will be.
Step 3: Heat the neutral cooking oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer, reserving any extra marinade in the bowl.
Step 4: Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned. It doesn't need to be cooked through at this stage. Add any remaining marinade from the bowl to the pan.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is where the magic of the buldak recipe happens.
Step 6: Preheat your broiler. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the cooked chicken in the skillet. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped Thai Basil under the cheese for an aromatic twist.
Step 7: Transfer the skillet to the preheated broiler. Broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and slightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. If you're a fan of savory dishes, you might also enjoy making Crispy Tuna Patties on a milder day.
Step 8: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with rice or your preferred side dishes. Enjoy your homemade buldak recipe!