Name: Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 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; ¼ cup Korean BBQ rub; 1/4 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; 1 whole seedless cucumber (sliced into 1/8 inch rounds); 1 cup rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup ice; extra water (to top off container)

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If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that will impress your family and friends, the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is just what you need! This recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors with tender chicken, making it a favorite for busy weeknights, weekend barbecues, or even casual gatherings. Picture this: juicy chicken marinated in a flavorful sauce, all nestled between soft sandwich buns. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become part of your regular rotation!

Not only is this sandwich bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, perfect for those days when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have dinner on the table in under an hour!
Family-friendly: The combination of sweet and spicy flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit for everyone.
Make-ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even deeper flavor that saves you time on busy days.
Versatile toppings: Customize your sandwich with fresh veggies or spicy mayo to suit your taste.
Perfect for gatherings: This recipe makes enough to serve a crowd, so it’s great for parties or family get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering experience. Get ready to gather everything you need for your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich!

For the Marinade

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

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
2 tablespoons water (for a slurry)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry)

For Serving

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider when making your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich:

Swap the protein: Use grilled tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a delicious vegetarian option.
Add crunch: Top your sandwich with shredded cabbage or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
Spice it up: Experiment with different levels of gochujang or add sliced jalapeños if you love heat!
Wrap it up: Try wrapping the ingredients in lettuce leaves instead of using buns for a lighter option.

How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by combining rice vinegar, salt, sugar, and ice in a bowl. This pickling mixture adds brightness to the dish while enhancing the flavors of your cucumber slices. Let them soak while you prepare the chicken!

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In another bowl, whisk together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, low sodium soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, and Korean BBQ rub. This marinade infuses the chicken with an irresistible flavor profile that’s both sweet and spicy.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place your boneless chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this step is essential as it allows all those wonderful flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. The char from grilling adds an exciting depth of flavor!

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

While your chicken is resting after grilling, mix mayo with sriracha for a spicy spread. Toast your sandwich buns lightly if desired. Spread some spicy mayo on each bun before layering on slices of grilled chicken and crunchy pickled cucumbers!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches—they’re sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Cooking can be a breeze when you have the right tips up your sleeve! Here are some essential pointers to ensure your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich turns out perfect every time:

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This enhances the flavors and tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier sandwich.
Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. A well-heated grill sears the meat quickly, locking in juices and creating beautiful grill marks.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F. This guarantees that your chicken is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat without drying it out.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly toast your sandwich buns on the grill or in a pan. This adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy from the sauce.
Layer Flavors: Don’t skip on the toppings! Adding fresh veggies like lettuce, kimchi, or sliced radishes not only enhances flavor but also adds texture and nutrition to your sandwich.

How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Presenting your sandwich with flair can make a simple meal feel special! Here are some fun ideas for serving your delicious creation:

Garnishes

Sesame seeds: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the top of your completed sandwich for an added nutty flavor and visual appeal.
Fresh cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro can brighten up your dish with a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich, making for a satisfying crunch.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the chicken.
Kimchi: This traditional fermented side dish offers a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken, enhancing its flavor profile.
Rice Paper Rolls: Light and refreshing, these rolls filled with fresh vegetables and herbs can serve as a delightful accompaniment to your hearty sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the chicken and sauces in advance, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover sandwiches to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the components (chicken, sauce, and toppings) separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual sandwich portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe bag and label with the date.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

Thaw sandwiches overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Alternatively, use a microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.

What makes this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich stand out?

This sandwich combines sweet and spicy flavors with a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with bold taste. It’s a unique twist on traditional BBQ!

How do I make my own Korean BBQ rub?

You can create your own Korean BBQ rub by mixing together ingredients like brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sesame seeds, and gochugaru (Korean chili flakes).

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting friends, this sandwich is sure to impress. Happy cooking!