If you’re looking for a sandwich that packs a punch of flavor while being super easy to whip up, the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our home. It’s not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights or fun weekend gatherings. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken slathered in a sweet and spicy sauce, all nestled between soft buns. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds!
This sandwich is not just about taste; it’s about sharing joy with loved ones over a great meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply enjoying dinner with the family, this dish brings everyone together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this mouthwatering sandwich ready in no time!
- Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and spicy flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even more flavorful meal when you’re ready to cook.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the spice level to suit your family’s taste preferences.
- Deliciously Saucy: The combination of sauces creates a unique flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delectable Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Each component adds its own special touch to make this recipe shine!
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 and Sauce
- 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 tablespoon Korean BBQ Rub
For the Slurry
- 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)
For the Spicy Mayo
- 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
To Assemble
- Sandwich buns or rolls
Variations
One of the best things about this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is how flexible it is! You can switch up ingredients and flavors to keep it exciting each time you make it.
- Swap the protein: Try using boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option.
- Add some crunch: Throw in some shredded carrots or cabbage for extra texture and freshness.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free buns and tamari instead of soy sauce to accommodate dietary needs.
- Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or extra gochujang for those who love an extra kick!
How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers
Start by making those lovely pickled cucumbers. Combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, ice, and enough water to fill your container in a bowl. Stir until everything dissolves nicely. Then add in those cucumber slices! Let them soak while you prepare the rest of your sandwich — they’ll be crisp and tangy by the time you’re ready to eat.
Step 2: Whisk Together Marinade Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, low sodium soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and Korean BBQ rub. This marinade is where all that delicious flavor comes from! It’ll infuse your chicken with sweetness and spice that will have everyone asking for your secret.
Step 3: Marinate Your Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour that scrumptious marinade over them. Seal it up tight or cover it with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes — if you have time for longer, go ahead! This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Step 4: Prepare Your Grill
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot so that we can achieve that beautiful char on our chicken! While waiting for it to heat up, whisk together water and cornstarch until smooth — this will help thicken our sauce later.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Once your grill is ready, place those marinated chicken thighs directly on it. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to brush some leftover marinade onto the chicken while grilling — it adds even more flavor!
Step 6: Make Spicy Mayo
While your chicken is grilling away, mix together mayo with sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce in a small bowl. Adjust sriracha based on how spicy you’d like it — it’s creamy with just enough kick!
Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Once grilled to perfection, let your chicken rest for just a couple of minutes before slicing. Toast your buns lightly if desired. Spread that spicy mayo on both sides of each bun then layer on slices of grilled chicken followed by pickled cucumbers. Top with any additional toppings you desire!
And there you have it! Delicious Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches that are perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
To elevate your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, here are some handy tips to ensure you get it just right!
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
Preheat Your Grill: A properly preheated grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and a slight char on the chicken, adding depth to the flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness.
Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting your sandwich buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with juicy chicken and sauce.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings like pickled vegetables or fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Serving your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this mouthwatering dish beautifully.
Garnishes
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and a nice visual touch.
- Fresh Cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro can brighten up the sandwich and provide a pop of color.
Side Dishes
- Kimchi: This traditional fermented Korean side dish offers a spicy and tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the BBQ chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the sandwich.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Rice: Simple steamed rice can soak up any leftover sauce and is always a comforting addition to any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week with minimal effort.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow any leftover sandwich components to cool completely before storing.
- Store the chicken, pickles, and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Keep sandwich buns separate to maintain their freshness.
Freezing
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- For best results, slice the chicken before freezing for easier assembly later.
- Pickles and sauces are best kept fresh, so avoid freezing them.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat, use a microwave or oven until warmed through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toast sandwich buns lightly before assembling to enhance texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day prior and cook it when you’re ready. Just store everything separately until you’re ready to assemble your sandwich.
What makes this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich different from other sandwiches?
The unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors from Korean BBQ sauce, along with fresh pickled vegetables, sets this sandwich apart. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience!
How can I adjust the spice level in my Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
You can easily modify the spice by adjusting the amount of gochujang used in the marinade. Start with less and gradually add more until you reach your desired heat level.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich as much as I do! It’s a delightful mix of flavors that brings something special to your dining table. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!
Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
If you’re craving a sandwich that bursts with flavor and is quick to prepare, look no further than the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. This delightful dish features tender marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served on soft buns, topped with tangy pickled cucumbers and creamy spicy mayo. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings, bringing family and friends together over a satisfying meal. With its perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, this sandwich is bound to become a staple in your household.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 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 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 Korean BBQ Rub
- 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 – 2 tablespoons sriracha (depending on your heat tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Sandwich buns or rolls
- Ice (heaping cup)
- Extra water (to top off container)
Instructions
- Prepare the pickled cucumbers by mixing rice vinegar, salt, sugar, ice, and enough water to fill the container. Add cucumber slices and let them soak.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, low sodium soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and Korean BBQ rub for the marinade.
- Marinate chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill over medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Mix mayonnaise with sriracha and sesame oil for the spicy mayo.
- Assemble the sandwiches: spread spicy mayo on buns, layer with grilled chicken and pickled cucumbers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Leave a Comment