• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

MJ and Hungryman

  • About
  • Blog
  • Feeding tips
  • Recipes
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Baby Led Weaning
  • Recipes
  • Feeding tips
  • Resources
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Baby Led Weaning
    • Recipes
    • Feeding tips
    • Resources
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    MJ & Hungryman » Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    Chicken Bulgogi (Low Sodium)

    By Min On June 22, 2022

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    This chicken bulgogi, flavored with a simple low sodium and no added sugar marinade, is an easy and healthy weeknight dinner for the whole family, including babies!

    Bulgogi served 3 ways for parent, toddler, and baby.
    Jump to:
    • Chicken Bulgogi (Dak Bulgogi) Sauce
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-Step Instructions
    • Tips for Success
    • Pan Frying Bulgogi
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Other Recipes to try
    • Chicken bulgogi (low sodium)

    Chicken Bulgogi (Dak Bulgogi) Sauce

    "Bul" means fire and "gogi" means meat in Korean. And while it's traditionally made with beef, you really can use any meat.

    This dak (chicken) bulgogi is absolutely satisfying and, just like with my baby-friendly bulgogi, very simple to make.

    The classic marinade includes soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, rice wine, and garlic. Pear or kiwi is often added to tenderize the meat.

    I developed this recipe with babies and young toddlers in mind, so the marinade contains minimal sodium and no added sugar. I made every attempt to cut back on the sodium level without sacrificing the flavor too much.

    And I believe you are going to love it!

    You may also enjoy: Korean Beef Bulgogi

    Ingredients

    Marinade ingredients.
    Sliced chicken, carrots, and onion in a large bowl.
    • Chicken - It is best to use boneless chicken thighs but you can use breast or a mix of both.
    • Carrots and onion - vegetables are optional but highly recommended! Adds great flavor and texture, and it's a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your child's meals.
    • Pear - Acts as a tenderizer and helps sweeten the marinade. If you can get your hands on Asian pear, it works best. But you can use any variety that you have available .
    • Coconut aminos - made from coconut nectar and sea salt, it tastes sweeter and lighter than soy sauce. It also contains significantly less amount of sodium (this includes low-sodium soy sauce). It's soy and wheat-free, so if your baby is allergic, this will be a great alternative to soy sauce. But you can certainly use low-sodium soy sauce, if you'd rather.

    You may also be interested in: Low-sodium Homemade Teriyaki Sauce

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    A four image collage showing how to make bulgogi.
    1. Add all the marinade ingredients into a food processor or blender.
    2. Blend until smooth.
    3. Pour over chicken, carrots, and onion. Massage chicken thoroughly, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
    4. Pan fry in a skillet or grill.

    Tips for Success

    • Slice chicken thinly if planning to cook in a skillet. If grilling, cut into big strips so they don't fall through the grill grate.
    • Marinate for at least 30 minutes for thinly sliced chicken. For bigger pieces, marinate for at least 4 hours.

    Pan Frying Bulgogi

    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    If you want the chicken to get slightly charred and caramelized, preheat the pan so it's nice and hot and don't overcrowd the pan. You will need to work in batches.

    But if planning to enjoy with your baby, add all the chicken and vegetables to the pan and let them cook in their own juices. You will also end up with a delicious sauce that you can serve over rice.

    Serving Suggestions

    Enjoy with some steamed rice (try this mixed grains rice or quinoa) and cooked vegetables, like broccoli or zucchini. And just like that you have an easy, well-balanced dinner for the whole family.

    You can also use any leftovers as a filling for burritos or quesadillas the next day or a topping for pizza or salad.

    For babies

    Finely chopped chicken and vegetables served over lentils.

    In a bowl, finely chop the chicken and vegetables using a kitchen shear. Serve over any cooked grain of choice or lentils like you see here for an additional boost of iron.

    You may be interested in: Top iron-rich foods for babies

    For toddlers

    A small portion of bulgogi, white rice, and lettuce for toddler.

    Introduce them to lettuce wraps! You can serve separate as pictured. Encourage them to make and try on their own by showing them through modeling. We like to play a game of who can take the bigger bite.

    Is your toddler becoming picky?

    Arm yourself with these strategies that will transform your mealtimes!
    YES, PLEASE!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best chicken to use for chicken bulgogi?

    It is best to use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for flavor and texture. However, you can use chicken breast or a combination of both.

    What is the best way to store leftover chicken bulgogi?

    Transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to double or triple the recipe to have extra for the future, transfer any marinated uncooked portion to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

    Other Recipes to try

    • Instant Pot Korean Chicken and Potatoes
    • Healthy Korean Ground Beef and Broccoli Quinoa
    • Healthy Asian recipes for Babies and Kids

    Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!

    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    Chicken bulgogi (low sodium)

    This chicken bulgogi, flavored with a simple low sodium and low sugar marinade, is an easy and healthy weeknight dinner for the whole family, including babies!
    5 from 5 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 5 minutes
    Resting time: 1 hour
    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
    Servings: 4
    Author: Min | MJ and Hungryman

    Ingredients

    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, sliced
    • 1 medium carrot, sliced thinly
    • ¾ medium onion, sliced thinly
    • Optional: green onion

    Marinade

    • 3 tablespoons coconut aminos or low-sodium soy sauce
    • ½ Asian pear, chopped (170g)
    • ¼ medium onion
    • 3 garlic cloves
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

    Instructions

    • Slice chicken (see note). Combine marinade ingredients in blender (or food processor) and puree until smooth.
    • In a large bowl, add chicken, marinade, onion slices and carrots. Massage meat thoroughly, cover, and marinate for at least an hour in the fridge.
    • Preheat skillet or grill pan over med high heat. Cook chicken and veggies until cooked through. See note.
    • Garnish with chopped green onion when serving.

    Notes

    • Slicing chicken
      • Slice chicken thinly if planning to cook in a skillet. If grilling, cut into big strips so they don't fall through the grill grate and marinate for at least 4 hours.
    • Pan frying chicken
      • If you want the chicken to get slightly charred and caramelized, preheat the pan so it's nice and hot and don't overcrowd the pan. You will need to work in batches.
      • If enjoying with your baby, add all the chicken and vegetables to the pan and let them cook in their own juices. 
    • To store: transfer to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to double or triple the recipe to have extra for the future, transfer any marinated uncooked portion to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 8g
    Course Dinner
    Cuisine Asian
    Tried this Recipe? Tag me Today!Tag me @KidFriendly.Meals today!

    More Baby/Kid-Friendly Recipes

    • Fluffy Vegetable Rice
    • How to Freeze Yogurt
    • Creamy Chicken Orzo
    • Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)

    Share or Save It for Later!

    Share: [addtoany]

    About Min

    Thank you so much for stopping by! I am Min, a Registered Dietitian, a Christ follower, a wife, and a mom to our two miracle babies! Currently, I’m having a ton of fun feeding their tummies and sharing our baby led weaning journey! Follow me on Instagram if interested in seeing daily menu as well as tips and tricks.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. ellen says

      December 31, 2022 at 2:54 am

      5 stars
      my sometimes picky toddler loved this! will be making it again. thank you for the recipe!

      Reply
      • Min says

        January 02, 2023 at 7:35 pm

        I'm so glad!!

        Reply
    2. dixya| food, pleasure, and health says

      August 15, 2013 at 1:51 pm

      Min- i want to make this for dinner tonight and had a quick question on 1/2 kiwi on the recipe. Is that part of the marinade?

      Reply
      • Min says

        August 15, 2013 at 2:15 pm

        Hi Dixya! Sorry the directions are not so clear. Yes, add kiwi along with all the other ingredients (except for carrots and sliced onion) in the blender or food processor. SO excited for you to try! Let me know how it turns out!!

        Reply
    3. Regan @ Healthy Apeture says

      July 31, 2013 at 6:43 am

      Min,

      We're honored to have you on our team. You are an exceptional blogger and wonderful lady!!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 31, 2013 at 7:30 am

        Thank you, Regan, for always encouraging and motivating me to do better!

        Reply
    4. Michelle says

      July 28, 2013 at 9:12 pm

      Congratulations and the chicken looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing on Foodie Friends Friday.

      Reply
    5. Diane Balch says

      July 28, 2013 at 7:26 pm

      I haven't cooked with mirin yet and have wanted to try it out. Thank you for sharing your recipes and your great photography with us on foodie friday.

      Reply
    6. Lauren @MomHomeGuide says

      July 26, 2013 at 10:55 am

      Hi! My husband loves bulgogi, but is on a no-red-meat diet, so I will have to give this a try! Is there a fruit (besides pear, which I am allergic to), that can be substituted for the kiwi -- I am a allergic to several fruits, unfortunately.

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 26, 2013 at 11:16 am

        Hi Lauren! Haha I was going to suggest Asian pear as it is most commonly used. If you are allergic to fruits, you can try adding coke to tenderize. I've never tried it, but I know my mother in law does from time to time ;).

        Reply
    7. Marilyn says

      July 26, 2013 at 4:08 am

      OH wow, another yummy recipe...you are an amazing chef!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 26, 2013 at 7:05 am

        Aww thank you, Marilyn!

        Reply
    8. Paula says

      July 25, 2013 at 12:29 pm

      I just learned about Healthy Apeture yesterday! So glad to have found your post regarding it! Pinning this for future reference.

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 25, 2013 at 1:02 pm

        Hi Paula! Healthy Aperture is a wonderful site. You'll love it ;).

        Reply
    9. Ashley | Spoonful of Flavor says

      July 25, 2013 at 11:21 am

      I'm so glad I found your blog, you have so many great features. I can't wait to read more!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 25, 2013 at 11:31 am

        Hi Ashley! Thank you so much for stopping by ;). It's lovely to meet you!

        Reply
    10. Laura @ The Rookie Cook says

      July 25, 2013 at 10:07 am

      Wow, congratulations! That pretty exciting - I know I would be grinning from ear to ear as well 🙂
      I recently found healthy aperture too, and really like it!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 25, 2013 at 11:32 am

        Hi Laura! Thank you ;). Healthy Aperture is a wonderful site! You should def submit your beautiful photos and meet other contributors. It's fun!

        Reply
    11. Shannon | JustAsDelish says

      July 25, 2013 at 8:46 am

      Hi Min, congrats on being on the editorial team of Healthy Aperture! I love bulgogi, but never tried chicken bulgogi.. looks so delicious!
      Thanks again for dropping by my blog & leading me to your lovely site

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 25, 2013 at 11:36 am

        Thank you, Shannon! I'm super excited, can you tell? I hope you give this recipe a try! It's a keeper ;). I'm so glad I found your blog and I look forward to following your journey!

        Reply
    12. laurasmess says

      July 24, 2013 at 6:48 pm

      Congratulations beautiful Min!! It's been way too long since I've visited your site but I am SO happy for you. You're a beautifully talented blogger and I look forward to checking out your work on The Healthy Aperture (I've never heard of that site before... can't wait to check it out!). Hugs xx

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 24, 2013 at 9:03 pm

        Hi Laura! Thank you for your kind words! So so encouraging....The Healthy Aperture is a wonderful site! Def worth checking out ;).

        Reply
    13. Lisa@ Cooking with Curls says

      July 23, 2013 at 9:01 pm

      Wow...congratulations!!! That is so awesome. I will definitely have to check it out 🙂

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 24, 2013 at 9:03 pm

        Thank you, Lisa!

        Reply
    14. felicia | Dish by Dish says

      July 23, 2013 at 10:55 am

      Amazing Min! And congrats on being part of the Healthy Aperture team!! I wanted to submit photos to healthy aperture, but i think you need to have nutrition info for them to accept the post right? How on earth do I know how many calories there are in the food I cook? Do u have any special website you use for that?
      thanks dear!!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 23, 2013 at 5:01 pm

        Thanks, Felicia. You can submit w/o the nutritional info. There are many apps out there, but I haven't really found one that I like. Someone recommended "Lose it" so I'm going to check it out.

        Reply
    15. Kumar's Kitchen says

      July 23, 2013 at 6:16 am

      CONGRATULATIONS!!! We feel great Min cause your food clicks are seriously gorgeous
      HAVE A GREAT DAY ! 🙂

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 23, 2013 at 4:57 pm

        Aww.. thank you! Hope you have a lovely day as well! 😉

        Reply
    16. dixya| food, pleasure, and health says

      July 22, 2013 at 9:03 am

      congrats Min <3. I will certainly be checking it out.

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 24, 2013 at 9:04 pm

        Thanks, Dixya! Hope you are having a great week ;). xoxo

        Reply
    17. Natalie @ FreshLifeFindings says

      July 22, 2013 at 8:19 am

      That's awesome Min! Congrats 🙂 Can't wait to read about your make ahead meals!

      Reply
      • Min says

        July 22, 2013 at 1:47 pm

        Thank you, Natalie! 😉

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    HI!

    I am MJ, a registered dietitian and a mom of 2. I truly hope you’ll enjoy all the recipes and tips that I share on what and how to feed your child!

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    search

    Trending Now

    Three custard yogurt variations sliced into triangles and squares.

    Custard Yogurt Toast (Sweet and Savory)

    Banana mug cake in a cup with sliced banana and peanut butter drizzle.

    Banana Mug Cake

    An overhead shot of sliced banana oat bars with sliced banana.

    Soft-Baked Banana Oatmeal Bars

    stacked spinach baby pancakes

    Easy Spinach Pancakes (with yogurt)

    Cooked pancake slices on a white platter with dipping sauce.

    Korean Vegetable Pancakes (Yachaejeon)

    four cooked english pizza muffin with one of them sliced into three strips

    Easy English Muffin Pizza (with vegetables)

    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    Is your baby 4-6 months old?

    Give your baby a head start on solids even before their first bite!
    I'M READY!
    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    Is your baby 6 months old and up?

    Learn all the secrets to starting solids safely while optimizing nutrition!
    I NEED IT NOW!
    Jump to Recipe
    A close up shot of cooked bulgogi in a skillet.

    Is your toddler becoming picky?

    Arm yourself with these strategies that will transform your mealtimes!
    YES, PLEASE!

    popular feeding tips

    A four image collage showing how to serve protein finger foods for baby

    Ultimate Guide to Finger Foods for Baby

    A four image collage of healthy baby snacks including iron.

    Healthy Baby Snacks (Easy and Balanced)

    A four image collage of best baby cereals.

    Best Baby Cereal (2022)

    Four top low sugar cereals for toddlers and kids.

    Best Healthy Cereals for Kids

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

    Copyright © 2023 MJ & Hungryman LLC · Privacy Policy | Contact

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
    Privacy & Cookies Policy

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
    SAVE & ACCEPT