A whiff of sizzling chicken fills the kitchen, igniting a sudden craving I just can’t ignore. That’s how I stumbled upon this Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, and believe me, it’s not just any sandwich—it’s a flavorful adventure! The marinated chicken hits all the right notes with its perfect blend of heat and umami, complemented beautifully by a crunchy, tangy slaw. Whipping this up is a total win for busy weekdays; with minimal prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing lunch that banishes the need for takeout. Plus, it’s customizable! You can dial down the spice for those who prefer milder flavors, ensuring everyone at the table can dig in with joy. Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and give your lunch routine a delicious upgrade?
Why try this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
Flavor Explosion: This sandwich delivers a delightful punch of flavors with the perfect marriage of spicy gochujang and sweet honey.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready that’s far better than takeout.
Crowd-Pleaser: The balance of heat and crunch ensures that everyone, from spice lovers to mild eaters, can enjoy it. You could even pair it with Crockpot Chicken Nachos for a feast!
Quick Prep: Whip it up on a busy day—this tasty meal comes together effortlessly!
Customizable: Whether you want to add kimchi or veggies to your crispy slaw, this dish adapts easily to your cravings.
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Chicken Thighs – Provides tenderness and juiciness; you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but they may require a shorter cooking time.
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – Adds spiciness and depth; reduce for a milder flavor if desired.
• Soy Sauce – Enhances savory umami flavor and richness.
• Honey – Introduces sweetness, balancing the spice perfectly.
• Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma that uplifts the marinade.
• Garlic (minced) – Contributes a warm depth of flavor.
• Fresh Ginger (grated) – Adds a lively freshness that brightens the dish.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to cut through the richness.
• Black Pepper – Complements and enhances the marinade’s overall flavor.
For the Slaw
• Green Cabbage (finely shredded) – Adds a refreshing crunch to the sandwich.
• Carrots (julienned) – Provides a sweet and colorful contrast.
• Mayonnaise – Acts as a creamy dressing base, tying all flavors together.
• Lime Juice – Brightens flavors and adds an acidic kick.
• Sriracha (optional) – Adds extra heat to the slaw for those who crave more spice.
• Fresh Cilantro – A garnish that adds a burst of freshness.
• Sesame Seeds – Provides additional crunch and flavor.
For Assembling
• Brioche Buns – Offers a soft, buttery base for your delicious sandwich.
• Oil (for cooking) – Prevents sticking during grilling and ensures a beautifully charred finish.
This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is not only a feast for the senses but is also easy to customize to fit your taste or spice preferences, turning an ordinary lunch into an extraordinary experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth, creating a vibrant marinade that promises to infuse plenty of flavor into the chicken. This mixture will set the foundation for your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, so take a moment to enjoy its aromatic scents.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but for the best results, let it marinate overnight. This step is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors that will elevate your sandwich.
Step 3: Prepare the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage and julienned carrots. This mixture will add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to your sandwich. Stir well to evenly distribute the vegetables, ensuring that your crispy slaw will provide that delightful contrast to the juicy chicken in your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
Step 4: Make the Slaw Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and sriracha if you want that extra kick. The dressing should be creamy with a hint of tanginess, perfectly complementing the crisp veggies. Once mixed, pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, and toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated. Set the slaw aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Heat the Grill
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a light coat of oil to prevent sticking and to help achieve those beautiful char marks on the chicken. The sizzling sound as the oil heats up will signal it’s ready for the marinated chicken, bringing you one step closer to assembling your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs onto the hot grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s charred and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly crispy and the thickest part of the chicken is no longer pink. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell irresistibly delicious!
Step 7: Let the Chicken Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite of your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is tender and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken into strips, keeping the fantastic textures and flavors intact for your sandwich assembly.
Step 8: Toast the Brioche Buns
Meanwhile, slice the brioche buns and toast them on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. The buttery softness of the brioche will provide a delightful base that perfectly complements the zingy slaw and juicy chicken. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning and achieve that perfect toasted finish.
Step 9: Assemble Your Sandwich
Now it’s time to put your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich together! Start with the bottom half of the toasted brioche bun, layer it generously with sliced chicken, and top it with a hearty scoop of crispy slaw. Sprinkle fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch, and then cap it off with the top half of the bun.
How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: Freeze marinated chicken thighs before cooking for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight prior to grilling for best results.
Reheating: To reheat grilled chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the sandwich fresh, as the crispy slaw is best served cold.
Preparation Ahead: You can prepare the slaw and marinate the chicken the night before to make assembly easy for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor, making them incredibly tender. Simply mix the marinade and coat the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As for the crispy slaw, it can be prepared 1 day ahead—just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to retain its crunch. When it’s time to enjoy your sandwiches, grill the marinated chicken (about 6-7 minutes per side) and toast the brioche buns. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality sandwiches ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights!
Variations & Substitutions for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Feel free to explore delightful tweaks that can elevate your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich and cater to your palate. Each option invites you to personalize your culinary adventure!
Dairy-Free: Use a vegan mayo substitute in the slaw for a creamy touch without the dairy.
Lean Protein: Swap chicken thighs for turkey or tofu for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
Spicier: Add extra gochujang or even fresh sliced jalapeños for more heat, turning up the flavor dial!
Different Buns: Experiment with whole grain or sesame seed buns for a unique twist on the traditional brioche.
Veggie-Packed Slaw: Mix in bell peppers, radishes, or even snap peas for added crunch and nutrition. This twist can brighten up your slaw beautifully!
Sweet and Spicy: Incorporate pineapple slices, either fresh or grilled, for a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken. The tropical flavor will be a delightful surprise.
Sriracha Boost: Increase the amount of sriracha in both the slaw and the marinade for a fiery heat that spice-lovers will adore!
These variations invite you to experience your sandwich differently each time, adding layers of flavor and fun to mealtime. And if you’re looking for more tasty chicken ideas, consider pairing it with Lazy Chicken Parmesan or trying out Thai Basil Chicken for a delightful twist on your dinner plans.
Expert Tips for the Best Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Perfect Marination: Always marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but overnight is even better for enhancing the flavor of your Korean BBQ chicken sandwich.
- Safe Cooking: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Customize the Slaw: Feel free to alter the slaw by adding other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra texture and taste.
- Brioche Bliss: Toast the brioche buns well; they should be golden brown to provide a delicious contrast to the tender chicken and crispy slaw.
- Balancing Spice: If you have a lower spice tolerance, reduce the amount of gochujang or sriracha, ensuring your Korean BBQ chicken sandwich remains enjoyable for all.
What to Serve with Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
Delight in a symphony of tastes by pairing your sandwiches with complementary sides that elevate this mouthwatering dish to a full meal experience!
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunchy exterior offer a fantastic contrast to the spicy sandwich, making every bite a treat.
Asian-style Pickled Vegetables: Bright and tangy pickles provide a refreshing palate cleanser between bites, enhancing the overall flavor journey.
Sesame Noodle Salad: Chilled noodles drizzled with sesame dressing have a delightful chew and nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the warm, spicy chicken.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed in a light vinaigrette add a refreshing element, cutting through the richness of the sandwich.
Coleslaw with a Twist: Add extra crunch and a sweet-tangy kick by making coleslaw with apples and a hint of sesame oil for an unexpected flavor delight.
Chilled Soju or Iced Green Tea: Perfectly refreshing drinks to keep your meal light and complement the warmth of the Korean BBQ chicken sandwich.
Transform your lunch into a culinary celebration filled with flavor and freshness!
Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, select chicken thighs that are bright pink and smell fresh—avoid any that feel slimy or have a foul odor. When choosing cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy with no dark spots or wilting. Fresh carrots should be crisp and vibrant. Gochujang should be stored properly and not have any strange odors.
How do I store leftover chicken and slaw?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the grilled chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the chicken’s juiciness while keeping the slaw crunchy. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy the slaw cold for the best texture!
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken! Just place the marinated chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures it’s ready to grill directly without compromising the flavor.
I’m concerned about spice levels in this recipe. Any tips?
Very! If you’re cautious about spice, start with a smaller amount of gochujang—about 1 to 2 tablespoons rather than the full amount. You can always add more as needed based on your preference. For the slaw, consider leaving out the sriracha or adjusting the amount to suit your taste. Feel free to sprinkle in some sugar to balance out any added heat.
What should I do if the chicken turns out dry?
If your chicken turns out a bit dry, it might have been cooked too long. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check that it’s reached 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part—this guarantees it’s perfectly cooked and juicy. Marinating the chicken longer will also help maintain moisture, so if you plan ahead, consider letting it soak overnight for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
Ultimate Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Take the chicken thighs and place them in a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage and julienned carrots. Stir well to evenly distribute the vegetables.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, and sriracha. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, then toss until well-coated.
- Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add a light coat of oil.
- Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs onto the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips.
- Slice the brioche buns and toast them until golden brown.
- Layer the bottom half of the toasted bun with sliced chicken, and top with crispy slaw. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds, then cap with the top half of the bun.