Easy Korean Braised Chicken Stew with Potatoes

Dakbokkeumtang, also known as Korean Spicy Braised Chicken, is one of Korea’s most beloved comfort foods.

Tender chicken is simmered in a rich, spicy sauce with potatoes, carrots, onions, and vegetables, creating a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

This authentic recipe uses a restaurant-style sauce that delivers deep flavor without requiring complicated ingredients.

What is Dakbokkeumtang?

Dakbokkeumtang (닭볶음탕) is a traditional Korean braised chicken dish cooked in a spicy red pepper sauce.

It combines:

Chicken
Potatoes
Carrots
Onions
Korean chili paste

into a flavorful stew that is both spicy and savory.

Many Korean families prepare Dakbokkeumtang for special gatherings, family dinners, and weekend meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 800g)
3 potatoes
1/2 carrot
1 to 1.5 onions
3 chili peppers
1 green onion
5 cloves garlic
200ml milk
Glass noodles (optional)

Broth Ingredients

Dried anchovies
Kelp
Dried shiitake mushrooms

Sauce Ingredients

9 tbsp soy sauce
4 tbsp Korean chili paste (Gochujang)
2 tbsp Korean chili flakes (Gochugaru)
6 tbsp corn syrup or cooking syrup
1/2 blended onion
1 tbsp cooking wine
1 tbsp fish sauce
400–600ml broth
Black pepper
Sesame oil

Kitchen Equipment

Large pot
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Knife

How to Make Dakbokkeumtang

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Clean the chicken thoroughly.

Remove excess fat between the skin and meat for a cleaner taste.

Step 2: Remove Chicken Odor

Place the chicken in milk for about 30 minutes.

This simple trick helps remove unwanted odors and makes the meat taste cleaner.

Pro Tip

Many people briefly boil the chicken and discard the water.

However, this recipe found that soaking in milk alone preserves more flavor and creates a richer broth.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

Soy sauce
Gochujang
Gochugaru
Blended onion
Garlic
Cooking syrup
Cooking wine
Fish sauce
Black pepper

Mix well until smooth.

This sauce closely resembles the flavor used in many popular Korean restaurants.

Step 4: Prepare the Broth

Bring anchovies, kelp, and shiitake mushrooms to a boil.

If unavailable, water can be used instead.

For deeper flavor, broth is highly recommended.

Step 5: Start Cooking

Place chicken into a large pot.

Add:

Prepared sauce
600ml broth

Bring to a boil.

Note

Use:

400ml broth without noodles
600ml broth with noodles

Step 6: Add Potatoes

Cut potatoes into large chunks.

Round off sharp corners slightly to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.

Add potatoes to the pot.

Cover and simmer over medium heat for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 7: Add Remaining Vegetables

Slice:

Onion
Green onion
Carrot
Chili peppers

Add them to the pot.

Continue simmering until the vegetables become tender.

Step 8: Add Glass Noodles

Soak glass noodles beforehand.

Add them during the final stage of cooking.

If short on time, boil them separately before adding.

Glass noodles are optional but highly recommended.

Step 9: Final Touch

Add:

A few drops of sesame oil
Freshly ground black pepper

Serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Better Dakbokkeumtang

Use Fish Sauce

Adding fish sauce creates deeper umami flavor.

If you prefer lighter seasoning:

Reduce soy sauce slightly
Increase fish sauce

Don’t Skip the Potatoes

Potatoes absorb the spicy sauce beautifully and are considered one of the highlights of the dish.

Milk Soak Method

Milk soaking removes odor without sacrificing flavor, unlike pre-boiling the chicken.

What to Serve with Dakbokkeumtang

This dish pairs perfectly with:

Steamed white rice
Kimchi
Korean egg rolls
Pickled radish

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dakbokkeumtang very spicy?

It can be adjusted by reducing the amount of Korean chili flakes.

Can I use chicken thighs only?

Yes. Boneless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy.

Can I make it without fish sauce?

Yes, but fish sauce adds extra depth and authentic Korean flavor.

Final Thoughts

Dakbokkeumtang is one of the most satisfying Korean comfort foods.

The combination of tender chicken, potatoes, vegetables, and spicy sauce creates a meal that is both comforting and unforgettable.

Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or already a fan of Korean cuisine, this recipe is a must-try.

Authentic Dakbokkeumtang Recipe (Korean Spicy Braised Chicken)