Go Back

Steamed Bao Buns with Korean Chicken

Delicious steamed bao buns filled with juicy Korean marinated chicken, topped with fresh vegetables and bold flavors.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese, Korean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Bao Buns
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup warm water
  • 1 teaspoon yeast
For the Korean Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Toppings
  • 1 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1 cup kimchi
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
  2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water.
  3. Slowly add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms.
  4. Let the dough rise for about 30 minutes.
Marinate and Cook the Chicken
  1. In a bowl, mix chicken thighs with soy sauce, gochujang, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
  4. Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Shape and Steam the Bao Buns
  1. After the dough has risen, divide it into small, equal-sized portions.
  2. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten it into a circle.
  3. Place a spoonful of shredded chicken in the center, gather the edges, and pinch them together to seal.
  4. Place each bun on a small piece of parchment paper and arrange them in a steaming basket.
  5. Steam the bao for about 10-12 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.
Assembly
  1. Place the steamed buns on a plate and top them with sliced cucumbers, a dollop of kimchi, and a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

For perfect dough consistency, add more flour if the dough is too sticky. Marinade the chicken longer for increased flavor. Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.