Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Sweet. Spicy. Saucy. Everything you want in a good sandwich. The Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. This sandwich combines tender, marinated chicken thighs with flavorful toppings, creating a culinary experience that will impress everyone at the table.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pickled Cucumbers
• For the Marinade
• For the Slurry
• For the Sauce
• For the Chicken
• For Serving
• How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 3: Cook the Chicken
• Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
• How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Classic Toppings
• Fun Variations
• Ideal Pairings
• How to Perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Reheating Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I customize my Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
• Can I use a different protein in this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
• How spicy is the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
• Can I meal prep this sandwich?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of Korean BBQ spices and fresh ingredients creates a unique taste that stands out.
• Quick and Easy: With simple prep and cook times, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra chicken to use in salads, wraps, or sandwiches throughout the week.
• Suitable for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this sandwich is always a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Ensures even cooking and adds beautiful grill marks while enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining ingredients easily without any mess.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for preparing fresh veggies and slicing the chicken properly.

Ingredients

Sweet. Spicy. Saucy. Everything you want in a good sandwich.

For the Pickled Cucumbers

• 1 whole seedless cucumber (sliced into 1/8 inch rounds)
• 1 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup ice (heaping cup)
• extra water (to top off container)

For the Marinade

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons gochujang (depends on your heat tolerance)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

For the Slurry

• 1 tablespoon Korean BBQ Rub
• 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayo
• 1 – 2 tablespoons sriracha (depending on your heat tolerance)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce

For the Chicken

• 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat) (about 8 – 10 thighs)
• ¼ cup Korean BBQ rub

For Serving

• Sandwich buns or rolls

How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers

Start by making quick pickles to add brightness to your sandwich.
1. In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, ice, and extra water.
2. Stir until dissolved, then add sliced cucumbers.
3. Let them sit while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Marinating is key to achieving flavorful chicken.
1. In another bowl, whisk together sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat thoroughly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Get that grill ready!
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess marinade.
3. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Create a creamy sauce to complement your sandwich.
1. In a small bowl, mix mayo with sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Now it’s time to put everything together!
1. Toast your sandwich buns if desired.
2. Layer grilled chicken on each bun followed by pickled cucumbers.
3. Drizzle with sauce before closing up your sandwich.

Enjoy your deliciously crafted Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, perfect for any meal!

How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Serving your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can elevate the meal experience. You can customize it with various toppings and sides to match your taste preferences.

Classic Toppings

• Pickled Cucumbers: Add a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor.
• Sriracha Mayo: A spicy twist that enhances the sandwich’s overall flavor.
• Coleslaw: Offers a creamy texture that balances the spicy chicken.

Fun Variations

• Kimchi: For an authentic Korean touch, add some fermented veggies.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the spicy elements perfectly.
• Cheese: Melted cheese can add a rich and savory layer to each bite.

Ideal Pairings

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries with a hint of sweetness pair well with the spicy chicken.
• Asian Slaw: A light and crunchy side that offers a contrasting texture.

How to Perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Getting the perfect grilled Korean BBQ chicken sandwich involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich is delicious.

• Marinate the Chicken Well: Allow the chicken to soak in flavors for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
• Use High Heat for Grilling: This helps achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook chicken thighs for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, to avoid overcooking.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
• Choose Quality Buns: Opt for sturdy sandwich buns that can hold all the fillings without falling apart.
• Experiment with Sauces: Don’t hesitate to mix different sauces for added flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Pairing your grilled Korean BBQ chicken sandwich with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Kimchi Fried Rice: A flavorful dish that brings together leftover rice, kimchi, and veggies for a delightful complement.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds a comforting element alongside your sandwich.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offer healthy and tasty balance.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides umami richness that pairs well with grilled flavors.
5. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar gives a light crunch that contrasts nicely with your sandwich.
6. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare as finger food alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Failing to give the chicken enough time to soak up flavors can lead to a bland sandwich. Aim for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
• Choosing the wrong cut of chicken: Using leaner cuts like chicken breasts can result in dryness. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Skipping the sauce: The sauce is what makes this sandwich special. Don’t skip it! Prepare it ahead of time and generously add it to your sandwich.
• Ignoring toppings: Fresh toppings like cucumbers or pickled vegetables add crunch and balance. Don’t forget them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store remaining sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep sauces separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, wrap the sandwich in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place the sandwich in a pan over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich:

How do I customize my Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

You can add various toppings such as kimchi, avocado slices, or even different types of sauces like teriyaki. Feel free to adjust according to your taste!

Can I use a different protein in this recipe?

Yes! Tofu or tempeh can be great vegetarian alternatives. Just ensure they are marinated properly for flavor.

What sides pair well with Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

Consider serving with sweet potato fries, a refreshing salad, or even some steamed rice for a complete meal.

How spicy is the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you use. Start with less if you’re unsure and increase according to your heat tolerance.

Can I meal prep this sandwich?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble sandwiches when ready for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is sweet, spicy, and full of flavor—perfect for any meal! Its versatility allows you to customize toppings and sauces based on your preferences. Give it a try; you’ll find it’s an easy recipe that delivers big taste!