Sweet & Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe

If you love bold flavor combos and crave something fresh and exciting for lunch or dinner, this Korean BBQ chicken sandwich is exactly what you need. The sweet and spicy marinade infuses the chicken with deep, mouthwatering flavor, while the crunchy slaw and soft bun add layers of texture that make every bite irresistible. This sandwich is easy to make at home and perfect for sharing with friends or family.

this Recipe

When you make this Korean BBQ chicken sandwich, you’re treating yourself to a next-level meal that’s packed with flavor and freshness. Whether you’re a fan of Korean cuisine or just want to try a new twist on a classic sandwich, this recipe will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
• Juicy grilled chicken marinated for maximum tenderness.
• Fresh crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast.
• Quick to prepare, ideal for weeknight meals.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Korean BBQ chicken sandwich. The marinade and slaw bring the flavors together perfectly.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (mix of green and purple)
• 1/2 medium carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 4 sandwich buns, preferably brioche or potato
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

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

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes to create the marinade.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the slaw by tossing shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and green onions with rice vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Grill the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred around the edges.
5. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, toast the sandwich buns lightly on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.
6. Assemble each sandwich by placing a grilled chicken thigh on the bottom bun, topping with a generous scoop of slaw, and sprinkling with toasted sesame seeds if using.
7. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately with your favorite side or dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat than chicken breasts.
• Don’t skip marinating; even a short time enhances the taste dramatically.
• Adjust the amount of gochujang and red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
• Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it tender and juicy.
• Make the slaw ahead of time to allow flavors to meld and save time.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover grilled chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the buns at room temperature or wrapped to maintain freshness.

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave briefly until heated through. Reassemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the slaw crisp and the bun fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may be less juicy and tender compared to thighs. Be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

What if I can’t find gochujang?

If you don’t have gochujang, you can substitute with a mix of chili paste and a bit of miso paste or soy sauce, but the flavor won’t be exactly the same.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative in the marinade and choose gluten-free buns to keep this recipe gluten-free.

How spicy is this sandwich?

The sandwich has a moderate heat level thanks to the gochujang and red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice by adding less or more according to your preference.