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; 1 cup rice vinegar (for pickling); 1 tablespoon salt (for pickling); 1 tablespoon sugar (for pickling); 1 cup ice (for pickling); Extra water (to top off container); ¼ cup Korean BBQ rub; 2 tablespoons water (for a slurry); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for a slurry); ¼ 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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If you’re looking for a delicious way to spice up your weeknight dinners, the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is your answer! This recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among family members of all ages. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just wanting something satisfying after a long day, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this grilled chicken sandwich so special is how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time. Plus, the balance of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes of prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Versatile Flavors: The sweet and spicy notes from the BBQ rub and gochujang create an irresistible flavor profile that excites your taste buds.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these flavorful sandwiches—perfect for family dinners!
Make-Ahead Option: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for convenience, ensuring even more flavor when it’s time to grill.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These sandwiches hold up well in the fridge, making them a great choice for meal prepping lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich means gathering some simple and wholesome ingredients that are packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

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 the Chicken

2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat) (about 8 – 10 thighs)
¼ cup Korean BBQ rub

For the Sauce

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

For Serving

Sandwich buns or rolls

Variations

This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize it based on your preferences:

Swap the Protein: Try using boneless skinless turkey or tofu instead of chicken thighs for a lighter option.
Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional toppings like shredded carrots or sliced radishes for extra crunch and nutrition.
Go Vegan: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty vegan twist.
Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix in different sauces like hoisin or peanut sauce to give your sandwich a unique flair!

How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Pickled Cucumbers

Begin by making the pickled cucumbers. In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, and ice. Stir until dissolved. Add cucumber slices to the mixture and let them pickle while you prepare everything else. This step adds a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the sandwich.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, mix together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar. Place the chicken thighs in this marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes—this infuses every bite with deliciousness.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. The grilling adds a smoky flavor that enhances these already flavorful thighs!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While grilling, prepare your sauce by combining mayo, sriracha, sesame oil, soy sauce, water mixed with cornstarch in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth; this creamy sauce will add richness to your sandwich.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Once everything’s ready, it’s time to build those mouthwatering sandwiches! Spread some of that delicious sauce on each bun, layer on grilled chicken thighs, top with pickled cucumbers, and any additional veggies you desire.

Get ready to enjoy an explosion of flavors with each bite!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Creating the perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is easy with these handy tips!

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This enhances the flavors and ensures the meat is tender and juicy.
Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that your chicken is cooked properly without being dry.
Grill on High Heat: Preheat your grill to high heat before cooking. This helps achieve a nice char while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly toast your sandwich buns on the grill for a couple of minutes. Toasting adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent sogginess from the sauce.
Balance Your Flavors: Taste your sauce and adjust the sweet and spicy elements according to your preference. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor tailored to your taste.

How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Presenting your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich can elevate the dining experience! Here are some fun ways to serve it:

Garnishes

Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty flavor and appealing texture.
Fresh Cilantro: Add chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the savory elements of the sandwich.
Pickled Vegetables: A few slices of pickled vegetables can add a tangy crunch that balances out the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries are a delicious alternative to regular fries, providing a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame dressing offers refreshing crunch and brightness to complement your meal.
Kimchi: This traditional Korean side dish adds fermented flavor and spice, enhancing the overall Korean BBQ experience.
Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with veggies and served with a peanut or hoisin dip make for a light yet satisfying side that pairs beautifully with the sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep pickled cucumbers in a separate container to maintain their crunch.
Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the buns fresh.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken separately from the other ingredients.
Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be stored for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat chicken in a microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
If using a microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Quickly toast sandwich buns on a skillet or grill for added texture before assembling.

FAQs

Can I prepare the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the pickled cucumbers in advance. Just grill the chicken and assemble your sandwich when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?

Pair your sandwiches with crispy fries, a side salad, or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Is it possible to make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your buns are gluten-free as well. You can still enjoy all the delicious flavors without gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience packed with vibrant flavors that will transport you straight to Korea. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your creations, and may every bite bring you joy!