Dak galbi is a griddle stir-fry where a gochujang-based marinade coats chicken thighs, cabbage, and rice cakes as they cook down together. The move that matters is marinating the thighs so the paste penetrates, then cooking on high heat so the sauce reduces and glazes rather than stewing.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook20 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineKorean
Cost$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten · soy · sesame
Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Chicken thighs
Boneless thighs stay juicy under high heat where breast would dry out.
A reasonable little indulgence. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
MarinateMix gochujang, gochugaru, soy, garlic, and sugar; coat the chicken and rest 30 minutes so the paste soaks in.
Sear chickenCook the chicken on a hot griddle 5 minutes until it takes on color and the marinade starts to caramelize.
Add vegetablesAdd cabbage, sliced sweet potato, and rice cakes, and stir-fry 10-12 minutes over high heat until the sauce reduces and glazes everything.
FinishOff the heat, fold in perilla leaves and a drizzle of sesame oil, and serve straight from the pan.
Can you make Dak Galbi in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Dak Galbi? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Dak Galbi ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Dak Galbi gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in tamari instead of soy sauce (check the other labels too).
Is Dak Galbi vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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