Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Oh, the first time I made a Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, I was transported back to a cozy food truck festival where the air was filled with laughter, the sizzle of meat, and the tantalizing scent of spices. It was an unforgettable day that sparked my love for Korean flavors. Now, whenever I whip up this delightful sandwich at home, it feels like I'm reliving that moment, surrounded by friends and family, sharing bites and smiles. The Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it an ideal meal for backyard barbecues or casual weeknight dinners.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart as the weather warms up and we all start dreaming of summer gatherings. It's quick to prepare, easy to share, and utterly delicious. Plus, who can resist that crunchy cabbage slaw nestled on top of juicy, marinated chicken? Trust me, once you make this sandwich, it'll become a staple at your table, especially when you want to impress your loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love "Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich"

• Quick prep and cook time, with a total of just 35 minutes.
• Minimal ingredients that pack a ton of flavor without overwhelming you.
• Family-friendly and sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Freezer-friendly, so you can prep ahead and enjoy later!
• Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, perfect for any occasion.
• It's a delightful way to introduce Korean flavors to your table!

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs - Ideal for juiciness and flavor.
  • ¼ cup Soy Sauce - Opt for low-sodium varieties for a healthier choice.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar - Helps balance flavors beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey - Offers natural sweetness; feel free to use less if you prefer.
  • 2 tablespoons Gochujang - Adjust for your spice level; it's wonderfully versatile.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar - Can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil - Infuses a rich aroma that's simply irresistible.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Cloves - Finely minced for maximum flavor.
  • 1 inch Fresh Ginger - Grated fresh for a zesty kick.
• For the Cabbage Slaw:
  • 2 cups Shredded Green and Red Cabbage - Adds essential crunch and color.
  • 1 cup Julienned Carrot - Provides sweetness and a pop of vibrant orange.
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise - Or Greek yogurt as a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar - Balances out the tartness of the slaw.
• For Assembly:
  • 4 pieces Brioche or Potato Sandwich Buns - Toasting enhances flavor and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter - For toasting the buns, making them golden and delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Grill or Skillet

Before we dive into the deliciousness, let's get our cooking equipment ready! Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If you're using a skillet, a little drizzle of oil will help keep things from sticking, but don't worry too much if you forget; it'll still work out just fine. You want that sizzle when the chicken hits the pan or grill, so let it warm up for a few minutes while you prepare the marinade!

Make the Chicken Marinade

Grab a mixing bowl and let's get those flavors dancing! Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Give it a good whisk until everything's blended together well. Now, add your boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the marinade and make sure they're coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (or just a plate if you're like me and always lose the wrap) and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit longer is even better, as it allows those flavors to soak in!

Prepare the Cabbage Slaw

While the chicken is soaking up all that goodness, let's whip up the crunchy cabbage slaw that makes this sandwich pop! In another bowl, mix together the shredded green and red cabbage, julienned carrot, mayonnaise, and sugar. Stir until everything's coated evenly. Taste it and think about how incredible it'll be on your sandwich. If you want a lighter option, sub in Greek yogurt for the mayo! Set the slaw aside in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the sandwiches.

Grill the Chicken

Alright, it's time to bring the heat! Once your grill or skillet is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs on it. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You're looking for a beautiful golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they're cooked through. When they're done, take them off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This is the moment to let those juices settle, so don't rush!

Toast the Sandwich Buns

Now, let's get those buns toasty! In the same skillet or on the grill if you're feeling adventurous, add a little butter and let it melt. Place your brioche or potato sandwich buns cut side down in the melted butter. Toast them until they're golden brown and slightly crisp. Oh, the smell! It's heavenly. This step adds a fantastic crunch to your sandwich that you won't want to skip.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Finally, it's time for the pièce de résistance! Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips. Take your beautifully toasted buns and layer on the sliced chicken first. Then, top it generously with that crunchy cabbage slaw. Feel free to pile it high; no one's judging here! Put the top bun on, give it a gentle press, and voilà! You've just created a Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich that's bursting with flavor and ready to impress!

Variations

• Add some sliced jalapeños or sriracha to the slaw for an extra kick.
• Use grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Swap out the cabbage for a mix of seasonal greens like arugula or spinach.
• Try a honey mustard sauce instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist.
• Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches warm, with a side of sweet potato fries or a light salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also add pickled vegetables for an extra crunch. Don't forget to have some extra gochujang on the side for those who like it spicy!

Storage

Leftover sandwiches can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave, then toast the buns again for that crispy texture. If you'd like to freeze the chicken, it can last for up to 2 months, but I recommend assembling the sandwiches fresh for the best experience.

Helpful Notes

• For a lighter slaw, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
• Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite spices or herbs.
• If you're sensitive to gluten, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free buns.
• Leftover chicken can be added to salads or wraps for an easy meal.
• Adjust the sweetness of the slaw by adding more or less sugar based on your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the marinated chicken thighs before cooking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling. It's best to assemble the sandwiches fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately if needed.

What can I use instead of gochujang?

If you don't have gochujang on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of miso paste and a little bit of hot sauce for that spicy-sweet kick. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste. Another option is to use sriracha, but keep in mind that it won't have the same depth of flavor. For more information on Korean ingredients, check out this guide to gochujang.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and substitute soy sauce with tamari. Check the labels on all your ingredients to ensure they're gluten-free, especially the mayonnaise. This way, you can still enjoy the full flavor without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

I can't wait for you to try this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich! It's such a fun way to bring a little excitement to your meal routine, and I promise it'll have everyone around the table asking for seconds. Whether you're enjoying it at a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, this sandwich is bound to become a favorite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some delicious memories in your kitchen. You've got this, and I'm cheering you on every step of the way!