Sweet. Spicy. Saucy. Everything you want in a good sandwich, the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is perfect for any occasion—from backyard barbecues to cozy family dinners. This mouthwatering delight combines tender chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful Korean BBQ rub with refreshing cucumber pickles and a creamy sriracha mayo. It’s a unique twist that satisfies all taste buds while being easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: With only 15 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy gochujang and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang and sriracha to suit your spice tolerance.
- Fresh Ingredients: The crunchy cucumber adds a delightful crispness that complements the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: This is crucial for achieving that authentic grilled flavor and perfect char on your chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating your chicken and mixing sauces without making a mess.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring your sauces are well-blended for maximum flavor.
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 Chicken 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
- 1 tablespoons Korean BBQ Rub
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)
- 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 freshness to your sandwich.
1. In a large bowl, combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, ice, and extra water.
2. Add sliced cucumbers to the mixture and let them sit for at least 30 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into the chicken.
1. In another bowl, mix sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and Korean BBQ rub until well combined.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook that marinated goodness!
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove chicken from marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
3. Grill chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the chicken grills, whip up a tasty sauce.
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth.
2. For added thickness, combine water with cornstarch in another small bowl; then add this slurry to your mayo mixture.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Once everything is cooked and prepped:
1. Place grilled chicken on sandwich buns or rolls.
2. Top with pickled cucumbers and drizzle with prepared sauce.
3. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Serving your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can elevate the dining experience. Whether it’s for a casual lunch or a festive gathering, these suggestions will help you impress your guests.
Enjoy with Fresh Pickled Cucumbers
- This tangy side adds a refreshing crunch that complements the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Pair with Sweet Potato Fries
- Crispy sweet potato fries bring a delightful sweetness and texture contrast to the spicy sandwich.
Accompany with Asian Slaw
- A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing provides a vibrant, zesty balance.
Serve with Kimchi
- The fermented flavors of kimchi add an authentic Korean touch, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Add a Side of Rice
- Steamed rice can soak up excess sauce and provide a hearty base for the meal.
Enjoy with Cold Noodle Salad
- A chilled noodle salad offers a light and flavorful option that pairs well with the grilled chicken’s heat.
How to Perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
To achieve the best version of your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, consider these essential tips.
- Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for several hours or overnight allows flavors to deepen and improve tenderness.
- Use High Heat: Grilling at high temperatures achieves those perfect char marks and enhances flavor through caramelization.
- Rest the Chicken: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing keeps it juicy.
- Customize Your Sauce: Adjust levels of gochujang or sriracha in your sauce based on preferred spice levels to suit your taste.
- Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting sandwich buns adds extra texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish your sandwich with fresh cilantro or green onions for an aromatic finish.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
A well-rounded meal includes delicious sides that complement your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Here are some great options:
Crispy Tempura Vegetables
Lightly battered and fried veggies add crunch and flavor variety to your meal.Miso Soup
A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting umami notes that pair nicely with the sandwich’s bold flavors.Steamed Broccoli with Sesame Seeds
This simple side adds nutrition and a nutty sprinkle that enhances visual appeal.Asian-Style Potato Salad
A creamy potato salad mixing mayo, green onions, and soy sauce gives a twist on the classic dish.Bulgur Wheat Salad
A light salad made with bulgur, herbs, and lemon makes for an excellent refreshing side option.Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing
A medley of fresh fruits tossed in citrus dressing offers a sweet counterbalance to spicy sandwiches.Edamame Beans
These protein-packed beans are easy to prepare and serve as a healthy snack alongside your main dish.Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Soy Glaze
Roasting these sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars while adding a salty-sweet glaze that enhances flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, avoid these common pitfalls.
- Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to penetrate the meat.
- Ignoring Ingredient Proportions: Using too much gochujang can overpower the sandwich. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your heat preference.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Not Toasting the Buns: Toasting enhances flavor and adds texture. Lightly grill or toast your buns before assembling the sandwich.
- Forgetting About Toppings: Toppings add crunch and freshness. Don’t skip on cucumber pickles or spicy mayo for added flavor.
- Rushing the Process: Allow time for flavors to meld. If possible, let your marinated chicken sit in the fridge longer than 30 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped sandwiches for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (about 30 seconds) until warmed through, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook until warmed through, flipping once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
What is a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
A Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich features marinated grilled chicken thighs served on toasted buns with flavorful sauces and toppings.
How can I customize my Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
You can add different toppings like coleslaw, kimchi, or even avocado slices to enhance texture and flavor.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute beef or turkey if you prefer a different protein while still enjoying that same delicious Korean BBQ flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?
Consider serving it with sweet potato fries, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this sandwich healthier?
Absolutely! You can use whole grain buns and load up on fresh veggies to increase nutrient content without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a delightful mix of sweet and spicy flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings and sides. Give this recipe a try for your next meal!
Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Indulge in the delightful flavors of the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, a perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory that elevates any meal. This sandwich features tender chicken thighs marinated in a rich Korean BBQ rub, complemented by the crunch of refreshing pickled cucumbers and a zesty sriracha mayo. Ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or slicing it up for appetizers at gatherings, this sandwich promises to impress with its flavor explosion.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat)
- ¼ cup Korean BBQ rub
- 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)
- 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
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)
- 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
- ¼ cup mayo
- 1 – 2 tablespoons sriracha (depending on your heat tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
- Sandwich buns or rolls
Instructions
- Prepare pickled cucumbers by mixing rice vinegar, salt, sugar, ice, and water. Add sliced cucumbers and let sit for 30 minutes.
- Marinate chicken thighs in a mixture of sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and Korean BBQ rub for at least two hours or overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce in a bowl for the sauce; add cornstarch slurry for thickness.
- Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken on buns topped with pickled cucumbers and sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added flavor depth, marinate the chicken overnight. Adjust gochujang and sriracha levels based on your spice tolerance. Toast buns lightly before assembly to enhance texture.
