The smell of sizzling chicken wafted through the air, reminiscent of vibrant street food scenes in Seoul. My first attempt at crafting the Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw took me by surprise, blending the fiery depths of gochujang and savory goodness harmoniously. This sandwich isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant culinary adventure that makes every bite a celebration of flavors. With its quick prep time and delightful crunch from the zesty slaw, it’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to discover how to transform ordinary chicken into something spectacular? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is this sandwich a game changer?

Explosion of Flavors: Each bite of the Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich delivers a thrilling mix of heat and sweetness, thanks to the gochujang marinade that’s simply irresistible.

Crispy, Crunchy Slaw: The zesty slaw adds a vibrant crunch, making it the perfect companion to the tender, grilled chicken, enhancing the overall texture.

Quick and Easy: With just a few components and simple steps, this recipe ensures you’ll whip up a stunning meal fast—ideal for busy weeknights!

Versatile Delight: Personalize it by adding your favorite toppings! Try pairing it with Honey BBQ Chicken for an exciting twist.

Crowd Appeal: This sandwich is sure to impress family and friends, transforming your dinner table into a gourmet experience that rivals the best street food.

Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein that stays juicy and flavorful.
• Gochujang (3 tablespoons) – Adds the essential spiciness and depth; adjust for desired heat.
• Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Provides savory notes in the marinade.
• Honey (1 tablespoon) – Balances the spiciness with a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon) – Infuses the chicken with a delightful nutty aroma.
• Minced Garlic (4 cloves) – Enhances the marinade with aromatic goodness.
• Fresh Ginger, grated (1 tablespoon) – Brings a zesty kick to the flavor profile.
• Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a refreshing acidity to balance the richness.
• Black Pepper (1 teaspoon) – For a touch of seasoning.

For the Slaw
• Green Cabbage, finely shredded (1 cup) – Provides a crunchy texture and freshness.
• Carrots, julienned (1 cup) – Adds sweetness and extra crunch in the slaw.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup) – The creamy base for the slaw dressing.
• Lime Juice (1 tablespoon) – Brightens up the slaw with acidity.
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon, optional) – For an additional kick if you crave more heat.

For Assembly
• Burger Buns (4, preferably brioche) – Soft and fluffy to elevate your sandwich experience.
• Fresh Cilantro – For garnish, adding a hint of freshness to each bite.
• Sesame Seeds – A crunchy finish that adds a delightful texture.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of gochujang, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. This vibrant marinade will infuse your chicken with an explosion of flavor, so combine until smooth and set aside for easy access once your chicken thighs are ready.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl, pouring the prepared marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated, sealing or covering it tightly. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor absorption. This step is essential for a juicy, spicy kick in your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw
While your chicken marinates, it’s time to create the crispy slaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of finely shredded green cabbage and 1 cup of julienned carrots. The combination of these fresh ingredients will provide the vibrant crunch that complements the spicy chicken perfectly. Toss them gently and set the bowl aside while you whip up the dressing.

Step 4: Whisk the Slaw Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and an optional tablespoon of sriracha if you like it extra spicy. This creamy dressing will enhance your slaw’s flavor profile. Once combined, add it to the cabbage and carrot mixture, tossing well to coat every piece evenly, then set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Lightly oil the grill grates or the pan to prevent sticking, ensuring even cooking. A hot grill creates those beautiful char marks on the chicken, sealing in the juices and bringing a smoky flavor that elevates your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill, cooking for 6-7 minutes per side, or until each piece is nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The enticing aroma of grilled chicken will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Once done, remove the thighs and let them rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.

Step 7: Slice the Chicken
After resting, slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips. This step allows for easy assembly and helps the chicken fit perfectly within the sandwich. The juicy, flavorful pieces will be the star of your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, inviting your family and friends to dig in.

Step 8: Toast the Buns
In the same grill or a separate pan, toast the brioche burger buns until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. The warmth and slight crunch of the toasted buns enhance the overall experience of your sandwich and provide a delightful texture contrast to the creamy slaw and juicy chicken.

Step 9: Assemble the Sandwiches
To assemble your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, start by layering each bottom bun with sliced grilled chicken. Generously top with the zesty slaw, adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for an aromatic finish. Finally, cap each sandwich with the top bun, ready for your culinary adventure to begin.

Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Variations

Feel free to mix and match these delightful twists to make the Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich truly your own!

Healthier Option: Substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner bite. Just adjust grilling time to keep it juicy!
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free burger buns to allow everyone to enjoy this savory treat without dietary worries. They’ll maintain the same delightful experience.
Vegan Delight: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh, using the same gochujang marinade for a flavorful plant-based version. You won’t miss the meat!
Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews to the slaw for an unexpected crunch that amplifies the textural harmony in every bite.
Flavor Boost: Introduce more zing by adding a squeeze of orange or lemon juice to the slaw. This brightens flavors wonderfully and elevates your taste experience.
Heat Lovers: For those who crave heat, add sliced jalapeños or switch the slaw’s mayo for spicy yogurt to amp up the spice levels expertly.
Kimchi Twist: Mix in some kimchi into the slaw for an exciting tangy flavor that keeps your taste buds dancing! It’s a perfect homage to Korean cuisine.
Sweet & Spicy: Drizzle some spicy honey over the grilled chicken just before serving to add that sweet heat contrast that will leave everyone wanting more!

Whichever variation you choose, remember to enjoy the journey of creating and savoring this sandwich! For another tasty adventure, check out Crispy Chicken with Sauce Gochujang or for a delightful side, try Honey BBQ Chicken.

Expert Tips for Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Marination Magic: Allow chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight yields the best results. Full flavor penetration is key for your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich!

Grilling Perfection: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures juicy, perfectly cooked meat.

Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, give the chicken space. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling, affecting that desirable charred flavor.

Resting is Essential: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This step helps lock in juices for a tastier sandwich experience.

Slaw Storage: To keep your slaw crunchy, store any leftover components separately until serving. This prevents the slaw from becoming soggy, maintaining the delightful texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with Crispy Slaw are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. For the slaw, prepare the shredded cabbage and carrots, dressing them with the creamy mayo mix and refrigerate, ensuring they stay crunchy. When it’s time to serve, grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through, then slice and assemble the sandwiches with the prepped slaw on toasted brioche buns. This make-ahead strategy saves time on busy weeknights while maintaining that delicious, fresh taste!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate will maintain the slaw’s crispy texture and the chicken’s juiciness.

Freezer: If you need to freeze, wrap the marinated chicken thighs securely in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling to retain flavor.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Serve with freshly prepared slaw for that delightful crunch in your Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich!

Make-Ahead Tip: Marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge overnight prior to grilling, making your prep quick and easy for a delicious weeknight meal.

What to Serve with Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw

Create a satisfying meal with these delicious sides that complement the vibrant flavors of your sandwich.

Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture provide a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken, making each bite more satisfying.
Pickled Vegetables: Their tangy crunch balances the rich flavors of the sandwich, adding a refreshing and palate-cleansing element.
Asian Slaw Salad: Enhance the meal with a variety of crunchy veggies, sesame dressing, and a hint of spice that mirrors the sandwich’s themes.
Miso Soup: Light and flavorful, this warm broth brings an essense of comfort while maintaining the dish’s Asian-inspired roots.
Cold Beer: A crisp, refreshing lager pairs beautifully, cutting through the spice and making for an enjoyable dining experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the creamy coconut and sweet mango will complement the spicy sandwich, delivering a delightful end to your meal.

Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken thighs that are plump and moist, which ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Ideally, choose thighs with a light pink color and minimal dark spots, as these indicate freshness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also work well, but they may require slight adjustments to grilling time.

What’s the best way to store leftover sandwich components?
To preserve each ingredient’s deliciousness, store the leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Enjoy them within 3 days for the best taste and texture. For storage, ensure your chicken is fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. When reheating, a quick few minutes in a skillet on medium heat will revitalize those flavors beautifully!

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Very! Freezing your marinated chicken is a great way to save time. Wrap the marinated chicken thighs securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer them to the refrigerator the night before to let them thaw safely. That way, you’ll be all set for grilling without extra fuss!

What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
No worries! If you find your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, check that your grill or pan is properly preheated and lightly oiled. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can create steam rather than a nice char. If needed, reduce the heat slightly and give the chicken more time per side, making sure to monitor the internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly juicy results.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you have allergies, be mindful of the soy sauce as it contains gluten. For a gluten-free alternative, you can use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce. If you have guests with a spice sensitivity, feel free to adjust the gochujang and sriracha to their taste. For those wanting to enjoy this meal with their furry friends, I recommend keeping the marinated chicken separate from their servings, as some ingredients like garlic may not be suitable for pets.