Easy Spicy Korean Cheese Dakgalbi Recipe: Stir-Fried Chicken with Cheese

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Cheese Dakgalbi (Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Cheese) is one of the most popular interactive dining experiences in Korea.

It features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, stir-fried with cabbage and rice cakes, then smothered in a pool of melted mozzarella cheese.

You can easily make this mouthwatering, cheesy Korean favorite at home in just 20 minutes!

Main Ingredients You Need

  • Chicken Thighs (Boneless): 400g (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Green Cabbage: 2 cups (Coarsely chopped)
  • Onion: 0.5 (Sliced)
  • Rice Cakes (Tteok): 0.5 cup (Soaked in warm water)
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1.5 cups (Shredded)
  • Cooking Oil: 1 tbsp

The Spicy Dakgalbi Sauce

Mix these together in a bowl:

  • Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): 2 tbsp
  • Gochugaru (Red Pepper Flakes): 1 tbsp
  • Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
  • Sugar: 1 tbsp
  • Minced Garlic: 1 tbsp
  • Curry Powder: 0.5 tsp (The secret restaurant tip!)
  • Sesame Oil: 1 tbsp

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the cut chicken thighs with the sauce mix. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Cook Vegetables & Chicken: Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken, chopped cabbage, onions, and soaked rice cakes.
  3. Stir-Fry: Stir-fry everything together for about 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cabbage becomes soft.
  4. The Cheese River: Push the cooked chicken and vegetables to two sides of the pan, creating a clear path down the center.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Fill the middle space with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the pan with a lid, turn the heat to low, and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve & Dip: Dip the spicy chicken and rice cakes directly into the gooey melted cheese and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Authentic Flavor

  • Chicken Thighs Over Breasts: Always use chicken thighs! They stay juicy and tender under high-heat stir-frying, whereas breasts can dry out quickly.
  • A Pinch of Curry Powder: Adding just half a teaspoon of curry powder to the sauce neutralizes gamey chicken odors and gives that iconic Korean restaurant taste.

Enjoy your hot, spicy, and cheesy Korean Dakgalbi right off the stove!

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