Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken for Easy Family Nights

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s a certain joy that comes from gathering around the dinner table with loved ones, exchanging stories and laughter over a delicious meal. When the craving for bold flavors meets the need for an easy, stress-free dinner, my Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken with Broccoli always delivers! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen; the spicy, savory glaze of Gochujang combined with crispy chicken and vibrant greens makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its scrumptious taste but also in its simplicity. With just one pan, you can whip up a nourishing meal that satisfies both the adventurous foodie and the busy weeknight warrior. On days when I need to switch up my dinner routine or impress unexpected guests, this flavorful dish (with the option to indulge in spicy mayo) never disappoints. So, let s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will surely elevate your weeknight dinners!

Why is Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken a must-try?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort with all ingredients baked on a single sheet pan, keeping cleanup a breeze.
Bold Flavors: The Gochujang glaze delivers a punch of sweet and spicy goodness that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Healthy Twist: With tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, you get a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Option: Perfect for casual family nights or entertaining friends, it caters to everyone s palate with optional spicy mayo.
Quick Cooking: Ready in just 25 minutes, it s an ideal solution for busy weeknights. Get ready for a delightful meal that truly brings everyone together!

Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
Boneless chicken breasts 2 pounds, cut into 2-inch cubes for perfect bite-sized pieces.
Egg 1, to help the crunchy coating stick to the chicken.
Corn flakes 3 cups finely crushed, for an ultra-crispy texture that excites.
Grated parmesan 2 tablespoons, enhances flavor and adds a rich, cheesy twist.
Salt and black pepper to taste, essential for balancing the flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil for brushing, keeps everything tender and juicy.

For the Broccoli
Broccoli florets 3 cups, packed with nutrients and vibrant color.

For the Gochujang Glaze
Tamari/soy sauce 1/2 cup, brings umami to the table.
Honey 2 teaspoons, adds a subtle sweetness to balance the heat.
Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 1-2 tablespoons, the star ingredient for that delicious kick.
Rice vinegar 2 tablespoons, gives a tangy zing to the glaze.
Fresh ginger 1 inch, grated for a warm, aromatic flavor boost.
Garlic 3 cloves, grated, because everything s better with garlic.
Toasted sesame oil 2 tablespoons, adds rich depth and nutty notes.

For the Crunchy Topping
Toasted sesame seeds 3 tablespoons, for a delightful crunch.
Chopped green onions 3 tablespoons, brings freshness and color.
Chili flakes adjust according to your spice preference!

For Serving
Spicy mayo for a creamy, zesty dip that pairs perfectly with the chicken (optional).

How to Make Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken

1. Preheat your oven
   Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly rub it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the coating
   In a shallow bowl, combine the finely crushed corn flakes, grated parmesan, and a dash of salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg and toss the chicken cubes in it to ensure they re well coated.

3. Dredge and arrange
   For the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornflake mixture until fully covered. Place the chicken on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, ensuring the pieces are well-coated.

4. Prepare the broccoli
   For the Broccoli: In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them on the other side of the baking sheet alongside the chicken.

5. Bake and check
   Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The broccoli should be tender yet crisp.

6. Make the glaze
   For the Gochujang Glaze: In a small saucepan, mix the tamari/soy sauce, honey, Gochujang, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and 2 cloves of grated garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.

7. Combine and bake again
   Remove the pan from the oven and take out the broccoli. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat well. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to bake onto the chicken.

8. Prepare the crunchy topping
   For the Crunchy Topping: In a bowl, combine toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, the remaining grated garlic, chili flakes, and a tiny pinch of salt.

9. Serve it up
   Plate the chicken and broccoli, and sprinkle the crunchy topping over everything. Serve with spicy mayo on the side for those who love an extra kick!

Optional: Drizzle with more sesame oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with delightful twists that will make your taste buds dance!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute corn flakes with gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal for a crispy finish without gluten.

• Spicy Kick: Add extra Gochujang or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a fiery flavor that will warm you up from the inside out.

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with cooked chickpeas or cauliflower florets for a plant-based version that s equally satisfying and delicious.

• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle some maple syrup over the chicken before baking for a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the heat.

• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate crushed almonds or peanuts into the crunchy topping for an extra layer of texture and nuttiness.

• Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh cilantro or basil into the topping for a fresh and fragrant twist that brightens up the dish.

• Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top of the chicken during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy layer.

• Roasted Veggie Boost: Toss in other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas with the broccoli for added color and nutrition.

What to Serve with Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken?

Gathering your loved ones around the dinner table is even more delightful when you have the perfect accompaniments to your bold flavors!

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine rice absorbs the savory glaze, creating a comforting balance with every bite.

• Crispy Sea Salt Potato Wedges: The soft and crispy potatoes add a satisfying crunch, perfect for scooping up the spicy mayo.

• Fresh Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a crisp, cool contrast that complements the warmth of the Gochujang chicken beautifully.

• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic bring a vibrant color and a crunchy texture, uplifting the meal with freshness.

• Sesame Ginger Dressing Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed in sesame ginger adds brightness, enhancing the rich flavors of the chicken.

• Chilled Soybean Noodles: These noodles offer a unique texture, dressed simply to highlight the savory tastes of the chicken and sauce.

• Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly drink such as sparkling water with a squeeze of lime refreshes your palate after each delicious bite.

• Honey Soy Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, glazed carrots introduce a contrasting sweetness that pairs incredibly well with the spicy glaze.

• Chocolate Mochi Ice Cream: End the meal on a sweet note with chewy mochi wrapped around creamy chocolate ice cream for a delightful treat.

How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken

• Room Temperature: Allow the chicken and broccoli to cool completely before storing at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain safety.

• Fridge: Store leftover Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until warmed through for best results.

• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: To revive the dish, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating, as it may make the coating soggy.

Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken

• Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. This enhances flavor and helps the coating stick better, ensuring a delightful crunch.

• Consistent Chunk Size: Cut chicken breasts into uniform 2-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and a satisfying bite in every mouthful, avoiding undercooked pieces.

• Perfect Baking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cook time. This promotes even browning and crispy edges for all the chicken and broccoli.

• Monitor Your Glaze: Keep an eye on the Gochujang glaze as it simmers. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water to keep it pourable for the chicken.

• Serve Fresh: Enjoy this dish right after it s ready. The crispy texture of the chicken and the vibrant color of the broccoli shine brightest when freshly baked.

• Optional Spice: For extra heat, feel free to sprinkle additional chili flakes over the chicken before serving. This enhances the bold flavor profile of the Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken and broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the Gochujang glaze up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can coat the chicken in the cornflake mixture and refrigerate overnight for a crispy crunch when baked. For the broccoli, simply wash and cut the florets ahead of time; they can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, bake everything together as directed and enjoy a quick, delicious meal that tastes just as fresh and flavorful as when prepared on the same day!

Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bright green broccoli florets that are firm and tightly closed. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as these indicate age. Freshness will ensure a vibrant flavor and appealing texture in your dish!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover Sheet Pan Korean Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It s essential to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture. For reheating, I always recommend using the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) to keep that crispy texture intact!

Can I freeze the chicken and broccoli?
Yes, you can! For freezing, allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then place the chicken and broccoli in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it s airtight, and you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.

What should I do if the chicken coating isn t crispy?
If your chicken isn t crispy, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure that the chicken is well-coated in the egg and cornflake mixture. You can also try placing the chicken on a wire rack above the baking sheet, which allows air circulation for even crisping. Lastly, consider baking for a few more minutes to achieve that golden brown perfection!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free when using tamari instead of regular soy sauce, which is great for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, for those with allergies, ensure you check the labels of the Gochujang, soy sauce, and any other packaged ingredients. If you re serving guests with a soy allergy, you might substitute it with coconut aminos.