Sweet and Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe

If you’re craving a sandwich that’s packed with bold flavors and perfectly balanced sweetness and spice, this Korean BBQ chicken sandwich is exactly what you need. It’s juicy, tender, and layered with a tangy homemade glaze that makes every bite unforgettable. The Korean BBQ chicken sandwich is a fantastic twist on your usual sandwich lineup—easy to make and oh-so-delicious.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or want something impressive for your next gathering, this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. You’ll love how the sweet and spicy notes meld perfectly with the fresh crunchy toppings and soft bun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold sweet and spicy Korean BBQ sauce made from scratch
• Juicy grilled chicken breasts infused with amazing flavors
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
• Loaded with fresh toppings for great texture contrast
• Great for meal prep or casual gatherings

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your own mouthwatering Korean BBQ chicken sandwich. The sauce is homemade to achieve that authentic sweet and spicy flavor.

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 brioche sandwich buns, toasted
• 1 cup shredded napa cabbage or green cabbage
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories: Approx. 480 per serving

How to Make THIS KOREAN BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICH IS SWEET, SPICY & NEXT-LEVEL GOOD 🤤🍔

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the Korean BBQ sauce.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half the sauce over them. Marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and brush it with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through and slightly charred at the edges. Brush with remaining sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra glaze.
5. While the chicken cooks, mix the mayonnaise with a teaspoon of gochujang in a small bowl to make a spicy mayo spread.
6. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 3 minutes, then slice it thinly or leave whole based on your preference.
7. To assemble, spread the spicy mayo on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Add a layer of shredded cabbage, then top with the grilled chicken.
8. Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on the chicken, then crown with the top bun.
9. Serve immediately with your favorite side or pickled vegetables for a full Korean-inspired meal.

Tips for the Best Results

• Marinate the chicken longer for more intense flavor—up to 1 hour works great.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe cooking.
• Toasting the brioche buns adds a nice crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
• Adjust gochujang amounts to control spice level to your liking.
• Try adding crunchy cucumber slices or pickled radish for extra freshness and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Korean BBQ chicken and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any fresh toppings aside to avoid wilting.

Reheat chicken gently in a microwave or skillet until warm, then reassemble the sandwich with fresh toppings and spicy mayo before serving. Avoid microwaving the assembled sandwich to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier, richer flavor. Adjust cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What can I substitute for gochujang if I don’t have it?

You can substitute with a mix of chili paste and a bit of miso or soy sauce for umami. Adding a touch of honey will help mimic the mild sweetness of gochujang.

Is this sandwich spicy?

This sandwich has a pleasant moderate heat thanks to the gochujang, but you can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount used in the sauce and mayo.

Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead and grill just before serving. Assemble sandwiches right before eating to keep the buns from getting soggy and toppings fresh.