Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings sweet, spicy, and saucy goodness to your plate. Perfect for casual gatherings or a hearty weeknight meal, this sandwich stands out with its savory marinated chicken and refreshing cucumber pickles. It’s an ideal choice whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply craving a tasty treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of gochujang and Korean BBQ rub creates a unique taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, making this sandwich at home is effortless and fun.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone meal, or pair it with sides like fries or salad for a complete feast.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra chicken to enjoy in salads or wraps throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or parties, everyone will love these flavorful sandwiches.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, gather the essential tools needed for a seamless cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing flavor and texture.
• Mixing bowls: Helpful for combining ingredients efficiently when preparing marinades and sauces.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending sauces smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Knife & cutting board: Necessary for slicing vegetables and prepping chicken safely.

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

For Assembly

• 1 tablespoons Korean BBQ Rub
• 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
• 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat) (about 8 – 10 thighs)
• ¼ cup Korean BBQ rub
• Sandwich buns or rolls

How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers

Start by making the pickled cucumbers. In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine rice vinegar, salt, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add sliced cucumbers to the mixture along with ice.
3. Top off with extra water to cover the cucumbers completely.
4. Let them sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours to pickle.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

While cucumbers are pickling, prepare the marinade:
1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar until combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them.
3. Seal tightly and massage to coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

After marinating:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove chicken from marinade; discard leftover marinade.
3. Grill chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4: Prepare Sauce Mixture

While grilling:
1. In a small bowl, combine mayo with sriracha, sesame oil, soy sauce, and mix well to create your flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Once grilled:
1. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
2. Spread mayo mixture on each sandwich bun or roll.
3. Layer with grilled chicken strips and top with pickled cucumbers.
4. Serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy your homemade Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich!

How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Serving a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and textures that this dish brings. Pair it with fresh ingredients and sides that complement its sweet and spicy profile.

Fresh Pickled Cucumbers

• These crunchy cucumbers add a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. The vinegar marinade brings brightness to each bite.

Spicy Slaw

• A mix of cabbage, carrots, and a spicy dressing adds crunch and a kick. This slaw is an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your meal.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the spiciness of the sandwich. They also add healthy fats for a more filling option.

Kimchi

• Traditional fermented Korean vegetables offer tangy flavors that pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, enhancing the Korean BBQ experience.

Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling sesame seeds on top of your sandwich adds visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor that elevates your dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

To make the perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, focus on marinating and cooking techniques that maximize flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Longer: For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This keeps it juicy without being undercooked.
• Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting sandwich buns enhances their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with sauce.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the sweetness or spiciness by modifying the amount of honey or gochujang in your sauce. Taste as you go!
• Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: Start with mayo, followed by chicken, then pickled cucumbers, slaw, or any additional toppings for a balanced bite every time.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy your sandwich right after assembling it for optimal freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these fries add sweetness that complements the spicy chicken.
2. Asian Noodle Salad: A cold noodle salad tossed in sesame dressing adds a refreshing touch alongside your warm sandwich.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a protein-packed snack that’s easy to prepare.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides umami depth and warmth, creating a comforting meal experience.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brushed with butter and sprinkled with chili powder, grilled corn adds smokiness and sweetness that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring melons or berries offers a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich, balancing out flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using bland chicken: Always marinate your chicken with flavorful ingredients like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. This enhances taste and ensures a delicious sandwich.

• Skipping the resting time: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This helps retain juices, making your sandwich moist and tender.

• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Aim for a temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked meat.

• Neglecting the toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t forget fresh veggies or sauces to elevate your sandwich experience.

• Ignoring bread quality: The right bun can make a difference. Choose sturdy rolls that can hold up to the juicy chicken and toppings without becoming soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Consider separating the filling from the bread to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in freezer bags; they can last up to 3 months.
• Label with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap sandwiches in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to prevent sogginess.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook each side of the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich:

Can I use different meats for this sandwich?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that adds spice and depth of flavor to dishes. It’s essential for achieving authentic taste in this recipe.

How spicy is this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

The spice level depends on how much gochujang you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, then adjust to your liking!

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep the chicken and sauces ahead, then grill right before serving for freshness.

What can I serve with this sandwich?

Pair it with sides like sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or pickled vegetables for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is not only tasty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different sauces or toppings based on your preferences. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner delight, this sandwich will surely impress!

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Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that will elevate your meal experience. This sandwich features tender marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and topped with refreshing pickled cucumbers. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or simply satisfying a craving for something delicious. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at your next barbecue or weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat)
• 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 whole seedless cucumber (sliced into 1/8 inch rounds)
• 1 cup rice vinegar (for pickling)
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pickling)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for pickling)
• 1 cup ice (heaping cup)
• extra water (to top off container)
• 1 tablespoons Korean BBQ Rub
• 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 (for sauce)
• 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce (for sauce)
• Sandwich buns or rolls

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pickled cucumbers by mixing rice vinegar, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Add sliced cucumbers and ice, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
2. For the marinade, whisk sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. Marinate chicken thighs in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat and grill chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayo mixed with sriracha on buns, adding grilled chicken strips and pickled cucumbers.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg