Korea Food Guide · Guide 22

Samgyetang

Samgyetang is Korea's nourishing chicken ginseng soup — a whole chicken simmered with ginseng, jujube, garlic and glutinous rice.

Samgyetang — ASK KOREA infographic
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Samgyetang is Korea's nourishing chicken ginseng soup — a whole chicken simmered with ginseng, jujube, garlic and glutinous rice.

Key takeaways

  • Samgyetang (삼계퇕) means “ginseng chicken soup.”
  • Traditionally eaten in summer on the Samman Bok Days.
  • Great for stamina, immunity and recovery.
  • Basic servings run ₩15,000–₩20,000.
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

What Is Samgyetang?

Samgyetang (삼계퇕) means “ginseng chicken soup.” It is a traditional Korean health food made with a whole chicken stuffed with sweet rice, ginseng, jujube, garlic and other healthy ingredients.

  • Rich in nutrition and energy
  • Great for boosting stamina
  • Popular in summer
  • Warm, comforting and delicious

Main Ingredients

Each ingredient works together to create a deep, clean flavor and amazing health benefits.

  • Whole chicken
  • Ginseng
  • Jujube (red date)
  • Garlic
  • Glutinous rice (inside the chicken)
  • Green onion
  • Salt and pepper
  • Chestnut (optional)

How to Enjoy Samgyetang

Best enjoyed in summer to beat the heat and restore your energy.

  • Serve hot in a stone pot.
  • Season with a little salt and pepper to taste.
  • Enjoy the tender chicken meat with rice and soup.
  • Eat the ginseng, jujube and garlic for extra health benefits.

Types of Samgyetang

  • Original Samgyetang — classic ginseng chicken soup with rice.
  • Black Garlic Samgyetang — made with black garlic for added richness.
  • Herbal Samgyetang — made with various herbal ingredients.
  • Spicy Samgyetang — a spicy twist for those who love heat.

Good With & When to Eat

  • Kimchi — the perfect side dish
  • Kkakdugi (radish kimchi) — adds a refreshing crunch
  • Green chili and onion — for a spicy kick
  • Salt or mustard — for extra seasoning
  • Most popular in summer (Samman Bok Days: Chobok, Jungbok, Malbok), when you need an energy boost, or as a nourishing meal anytime

Where to Try Samgyetang

  • Tosokchon Samgyetang — Jongno, Seoul; a long-standing famous spot.
  • Ginseng Chicken Alley — Insadong, Seoul; various samgyetang restaurants in one area.
  • Local Korean restaurants nationwide — easy to find and always satisfying.

Average Price (KRW)

Prices may vary by location and restaurant.

  • Basic samgyetang: ₩15,000 – ₩20,000
  • Premium restaurant: ₩20,000 – ₩28,000
  • Hotel / high-end: ₩30,000 – ₩50,000

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition may vary depending on serving size and ingredients.

  • Calories: 550–700 kcal
  • Protein: 45–60 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50–70 g
  • Fat: 20–30 g
  • Sodium: 800–1,200 mg

Health Benefits & Did You Know?

  • Boosts stamina and energy
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Improves circulation
  • Good for recovery and combating fatigue
  • Samgyetang has been enjoyed in Korea for over 1,000 years and ginseng has been used in Korean traditional medicine for centuries.
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