If you’ve ever hosted guests and struggled to decide what dish could please every palate — look no further. Andong Jjimdak (안동찜닭) is Korea’s ultimate crowd-pleaser. This rich, slightly sweet, soy-based braised chicken dish is the go-to meal when Koreans want something hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
In fact, every time I serve this dish, it becomes the most loved by my guests — hands down. And once you try it, you’ll understand why.
🏡 What Is Andong Jjimdak?
Originating from the historic city of Andong, this dish is a braised chicken stew made with:
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Chicken pieces (usually bone-in for more flavor)
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Glass noodles
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Carrots, potatoes, and onions
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Garlic and chili peppers
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A deep umami-rich sauce made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and black pepper
Despite the deep, complex flavors, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
👩🍳 My Go-To Jjimdak Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 whole chicken (cut into chunks)
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2 cups water
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1/2 cup soy sauce
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
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4 cloves garlic (minced)
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1 onion (sliced)
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1 carrot (sliced)
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1 potato (cut in chunks)
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2 handfuls of soaked glass noodles
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1–2 dried chili peppers (optional)
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Sesame oil & seeds for garnish
Instructions:
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In a large pot, bring chicken and water to a boil. Skim off any foam.
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Add soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and oyster sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes.
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Add carrots, onions, and potatoes. Continue cooking until tender.
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Add soaked glass noodles and chili peppers, and cook 5–7 more minutes.
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Drizzle sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving.
💡 Pro tip: Let the broth reduce for a thicker, more intense sauce!
🍽 The Perfect Guest Dish
What makes Andong Jjimdak so special isn’t just the taste — it’s the experience. It’s meant to be shared. Everyone gathers around the pot, picking out tender chunks of chicken and slurping chewy noodles coated in rich sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it creates that warm, communal feeling Koreans love so much.
🧖♂️ Pair It With Comfort For Your Body
After a rich, hearty meal like Jjimdak, nothing beats a good rest — and a soothing massage.
If you’re in need of a little body care after hosting (or eating too much 😅), try Galvani Massage or Cariota Massage. These services offer professional in-home bodywork that’ll help you relax, digest, and feel recharged. Trust me — it’s the cherry on top of a perfect evening.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or just cooking a comfort meal for yourself, Andong Jjimdak never disappoints. It’s savory, sweet, a little spicy, and deeply nourishing. Plus, it tastes even better the next day — if you have any leftovers!
So roll up your sleeves, simmer a pot, and share the love.
And when you’re done? Book yourself a quiet moment of recovery with Galvani Massage or Cariota Massage — because your tastebuds and body both deserve a treat.