The first warm days of summer bring with them a craving for something bold and BBQ-inspired. Enter my Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Cabbage Slaw, a delightful concoction that elevates the classic sandwich experience! This recipe is not just about the juicy, marinated chicken dripping with a sweet and spicy glaze; it’s also about the refreshing crunch of cabbage slaw, offering a perfect balance to each bite. What’s more, this sandwich is a fantastic crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for summer cookouts or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Plus, it can be easily adapted for vegan friends without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to transform your sandwich game? Let’s get cooking!
Why is This Korean BBQ Sandwich a Must-Try?
Bold Flavors: The Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is infused with a delightful mix of sweet and spicy notes, making every bite an adventure.
Crispy Crunch: The cabbage slaw adds refreshing texture, balancing the richness of the marinated chicken perfectly.
Versatile Options: You can easily adapt this recipe for vegan diets using tofu or tempeh, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of happiness.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this sandwich comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend BBQs.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s for a gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this sandwich is bound to impress. Pair it with some homemade Honey Chicken Sandwiches or Crockpot Chicken Wild for even more deliciousness!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs – Juiciness and flavor from the meat; substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, but may dry out.
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; low-sodium is recommended to control salt levels.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization; can be replaced with granulated sugar if necessary.
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; maple syrup can substitute in a pinch.
- Gochujang – Korean fermented red chili paste that delivers heat and depth of flavor; can use sriracha for a similar heat level.
- Rice Vinegar – Contributes acidity for flavor balance; apple cider vinegar may work as an alternative.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor; use toasted sesame oil for a richer taste.
- Garlic Cloves – Adds pungent aroma and taste; fresh minced or powdered can be used, though fresh is preferred.
- Fresh Ginger – Provides warmth and zest; ground ginger can substitute, though flavor will differ.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – For topping and garnish; omit for a nut-free version.
For the Slaw
- Shredded Green & Red Cabbage – Base for slaw providing crunch and color; use napa cabbage or coleslaw mix if desired.
- Carrot – Adds sweetness and crunch; any crunchy vegetable can work, like radishes or bell peppers.
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base for slaw; contributes richness; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
- Green Onions – Adds freshness and crunch; can replace with chives if unavailable.
For the Sandwich
- Sandwich Buns (Brioche or Potato) – Soft and buttery vessel for the filling; hamburger buns or gluten-free options can be used.
- Butter – For toasting buns; omit if vegan; use oil spray instead.
This delightful Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is just waiting for you to put it all together! Get ready to enjoy bold flavors and crispy textures.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and toasted sesame seeds until smooth. Add the chicken thighs to the mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover the bowl, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor absorption.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
While the chicken marinates, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the shredded green and red cabbage with the julienned carrot. In a separate small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper together until creamy. Pour this dressing over the cabbage mixture, tossing until all the vegetables are evenly coated. Chill the slaw in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, adding a light drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is charred and juices run clear. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing into strips for your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the chicken is resting, split each sandwich bun and butter the cut sides generously. Place them butter-side-down in a skillet or under the broiler, toasting until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes. This will prevent the buns from becoming soggy once you add the toppings, ensuring a delightful texture with each bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
To bring your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich to life, start with a toasted bottom bun. Layer it generously with the sliced, cooked chicken, then finish with a drizzle of BBQ sauce or a dip, if desired. Top the chicken with a generous serving of the chilled cabbage slaw, giving it that crunch and vibrant color, and then crown it with the top half of the bun for a masterpiece of flavors!
Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
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Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness; breasts can dry out if overcooked, making the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich less satisfying.
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Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours. This will enhance the bold, spicy notes of the BBQ sauce.
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Don’t Skip the Slaw: The crunchy cabbage slaw offers vital freshness. Skip it at your own risk—it perfectly balances the richness of the chicken!
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Toast Those Buns: Properly toast the sandwich buns to prevent sogginess. A golden brown crust adds both flavor and texture that complements the filling beautifully.
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Experiment with Heat: If you enjoy spice, don’t hesitate to add extra gochujang or even some kimchi to your sandwich for an added kick!
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Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the slaw a day in advance. This saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully before assembling your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Fridge: Store leftover assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the cabbage slaw separate and add just before serving.
- Freezer: You can freeze the marinated chicken separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking for your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat the cooked chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave to preserve texture.
- Assembly Tips: If making ahead, toast the buns just before serving to keep them crispy and prevent sogginess when preparing your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich!
Make Ahead Options
These Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper for that delicious taste. The cabbage slaw can also be prepared a day ahead; just keep it chilled in an airtight container to maintain its crispness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the marinated chicken and toast the buns just before assembly for optimal freshness. With these simple prep-ahead steps, enjoy quick, flavorful sandwiches without the hassle—perfect for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this delightful recipe and make it uniquely yours!
- Vegan Swap: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh for a hearty plant-based option. The flavors will still shine through!
- Mayo Alternatives: Swap traditional mayonnaise with avocado mayo or hummus for a creamy twist that’s both delicious and nutritious.
- Extra Spices: Add spicy kimchi or a touch of sriracha for an extra kick of heat. Your tastebuds will thank you for this fiery upgrade!
- Coleslaw Twist: Try using a sesame-ginger dressing for the slaw instead of mayonnaise. It brings a fresh, zesty zing to the mix.
- Crunchy Additions: Throw in some sliced radishes, crunchy bell peppers, or snap peas for an exciting textural contrast in your slaw.
- Gluten-Free Buns: Use gluten-free buns for your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. No one will miss the wheat with all those vibrant flavors rocking the party!
- Sweet or Spicy Sauce: Joe up the sweetness by mixing in some pineapple juice into your BBQ sauce, or make it smokier with a dash of liquid smoke.
- Bun Alternatives: Experiment with using lettuce wraps or portobello mushrooms instead of buns for a low-carb interpretation that’s just as delightful.
Looking for more inspiration? Try our juicy Korean BBQ Meatballs or complement this delightful sandwich with a side of Mediterranean Chicken Gyros for a fusion feast!
What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Kick off your meal with delightful sides that elevate the flavors of your BBQ sandwich and create a feast for the senses.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw echoes the slaw in your sandwich, enhancing the overall texture while adding a creamy tang that delights the palate.
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Spicy Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish adds heat and complexity, providing a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crisp on the outside and fluffy inside, these fries offer a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully. They’re a hit with both kids and adults!
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smoky, charred corn brushed with butter provides a seasonal touch and a pop of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the bold BBQ flavors.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy medley of pickled radishes or cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch, cleansing the palate between bites and enhancing the richness of the sandwich.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Cool, refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or sweet iced tea act as a delightful counterpoint to the spicy elements of the sandwich, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad provides a fresh and sweet contrast to the savory sandwich, making for a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent yet light.
Incorporating these sides into your meal will not only satisfy your hunger but also turn your dining experience into something truly memorable!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this sandwich?
Absolutely! For the best cabbage slaw, choose fresh, crispy green and red cabbage with vibrant colors and no dark spots. The carrots should be firm and crunchy, while the garlic and ginger should be fresh and fragrant; this will ensure a more flavorful sandwich.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover assembled sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, to maintain the freshness and crunch of the cabbage slaw, I recommend keeping it separate from the chicken and buns. Then, just combine them when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze the marinated chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What if my chicken turns out dry?
If your chicken tends to dry out, ensure you’re using thighs instead of breasts, as they are fattier and juicier. Marinating the chicken for a longer time, ideally 2 hours, will also help retain moisture during cooking. Additionally, cooking at medium-high heat and allowing the chicken to rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can be adapted for vegan diets by substituting the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh. Also, if you’re preparing for anyone with sesame allergies, simply omit the toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. Be sure to check the mayonnaise as well, opting for vegan varieties if needed.
How can I maintain the slaw’s crunch when preparing ahead?
To keep the cabbage slaw crunchy, prepare it a few hours before serving rather than a day in advance. If you make it too early, the moisture will soften the veggies. Additionally, mix the dressing into the slaw only when you’re ready to assemble the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich; this will help retain that delightful texture!
Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, fresh ginger, and toasted sesame seeds until smooth.
- Add the chicken thighs to the mixture, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Combine the shredded green and red cabbage with the julienned carrot in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until creamy. Pour over the cabbage mixture, tossing until evenly coated.
- Chill the slaw in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the sandwiches.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, adding a light drizzle of oil.
- Cook the marinated chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes on each side until charred and juices run clear. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Split each sandwich bun, butter the cut sides generously, and toast them butter-side-down in a skillet or under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Start with a toasted bottom bun, layer it with sliced, cooked chicken, drizzle with BBQ sauce if desired, top with cabbage slaw, and finish with the top bun.
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