The sizzle of marinated chicken on a hot grill fills the air, drawing everyone’s attention. As aromas of garlic and ginger waft through the kitchen, I know I’m about to make a beautiful connection with my loved ones over dinner. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw—a mouthwatering delight that brings the bold and savory flavors of Korean cuisine into a comforting handheld meal. This sandwich is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the sticky, sweet chicken, creating a delightful symphony of textures. So, are you ready to elevate your dinner game and dive into a culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is This Sandwich So Irresistible?
Bold flavors: The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy notes creates an explosion of taste that will satisfy any craving.
Quick to prepare: Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile options: You can easily switch up proteins or make it vegan with tofu or tempeh, ensuring everyone is happy at the table.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a picnic or family dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite.
Texture contrast: The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the crunchy cabbage slaw, making every bite an experience to savor.
With delightful sides like these sweet potato fries or a light salad, you can elevate your meal even further. Let’s get cooking and make your dinner unforgettable!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The primary protein base that’s juicy and flavorful; substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option, though they may dry out.
• Soy Sauce – Provides salinity and umami; low-sodium options add flavor while keeping it lighter.
• Brown Sugar & Honey – These blend sweetness to balance the savory elements; feel free to swap in maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Gochujang (Korean Fermented Red Chili Paste) – Adds a kick of heat and complex depth; if unavailable, another chili paste can be used, though the taste will differ.
• Garlic & Fresh Ginger – Infuse your marinade with aromatic flavors; while pre-minced is convenient, nothing beats the brightness of fresh ingredients.
For the Slaw
• Shredded Green & Red Cabbage & Julienned Carrot – The crunchy, colorful base for the slaw; a pre-mixed coleslaw can simplify your prep time.
• Rice Vinegar – Introduces acidity; apple cider vinegar can serve as an effective substitute.
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the slaw; plain Greek yogurt serves as a lighter alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Essential for authenticity, it introduces a nutty aroma; consider using toasted sesame oil for an extra punch.
For Assembly
• Brioche or Potato Sandwich Buns – Soft and pillowy; switching to whole wheat buns can add a healthier dimension.
• Butter – For toasting the buns, ensuring a rich flavor and preventing any sogginess.
In this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw, every ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting a delightful dining experience. Gather your ingredients and let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare Cabbage Slaw
While the chicken marinates, combine the shredded green and red cabbage with julienned carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, mayonnaise, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing until everything is well-coated. Cover and chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat while the slaw chills. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 5 minutes. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until nicely charred and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
As the chicken rests, slice each brioche or potato sandwich bun in half. Spread a thin layer of butter on the cut sides and place them on a hot skillet. Toast the buns for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, ensuring they are warm and ready for the filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Begin assembling the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich by placing the sliced chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired, and generously top with the chilled cabbage slaw. Crown each sandwich with the other half of the bun, pressing gently to hold everything together. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
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Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours. This ensures each bite of your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is bursting with deliciousness.
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Grill Not Fry: If possible, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Make sure to preheat your grill properly to achieve that ideal char.
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Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other crunchy veggies, like radishes or bell peppers, to your slaw for added color and nutritional benefits.
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Watch Your Heat: Adjust the gochujang quantity based on your heat preference. Start small if you’re unsure, and add more for a spicier kick.
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Toast Wisely: Don’t skip toasting the buns! It enhances the texture and prevents sogginess from the BBQ sauce in your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to this delicious recipe and make it uniquely yours!
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Different Protein: Substitute chicken with pork or seitan for a delightful variation. The flavors complement the marinade beautifully and add new dimensions to your sandwich.
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Vegan Delight: Use tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit as a vegan alternative. These options absorb flavors well and lend a satisfying texture, allowing everyone to enjoy this scrumptious dish.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free marinade without sacrificing flavor. This simple adjustment ensures that everyone can enjoy the deliciousness comfortably.
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Heat Level Adjustment: Modify the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference. A little can go a long way; start small and gradually increase until desired heat is achieved.
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Extra Crunch: Incorporate additional toppings like pickled vegetables or sliced jalapeños to elevate the crunch and spice levels. This will give your sandwich a delightful kick and an added layer of flavor.
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Special Slaw Twist: Add some fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint to your cabbage slaw for an aromatic twist. This brightens up the slaw and introduces fresh notes that perfectly balance the rich chicken.
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Sweet Maple Variation: For an unexpected twist, replace brown sugar and honey with maple syrup in the marinade. It adds a unique sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors.
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Wrap It Up: Instead of a sandwich, use lettuce leaves to create a low-carb wrap. The freshness of the greens makes for an invigorating change, perfect for a healthy meal option.
Explore these variations, or mix and match them to create your own delicious masterpieces! If you’re in the mood for more delicious options, check out my Mini Baked Chicken Tacos or the flavorful Korean BBQ Steak Bowls. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Enhance your dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this crunchy and savory sandwich.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness provides a delicious contrast to the bold flavors in your sandwich. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re always a hit!
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Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crunchy, tangy element that brightens each bite of chicken, making your meal feel lighter.
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Kimchi: Adding an authentic Korean flair, this fermented side brings a tangy, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sandwich. The bold flavors will transport you straight to Korea!
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Steamed Rice: Silky rice serves as a perfect neutral balance, allowing the flavors of the Korean BBQ Chicken to shine while adding heartiness to your meal.
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Mango or Pineapple Salsa: The sweetness of tropical fruits helps balance the savory and spicy notes, offering a burst of freshness that will elevate your meal.
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Craft Beer or Soju: A crisp lager or a shot of traditional soju enhances the overall dining experience and pairs seamlessly with the savory richness of the sandwich.
With these fantastic sides, you’re set to impress your family or guests while savoring the bold essence of your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw!
How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Fridge: Store leftover assembled sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, do not add slaw until ready to eat.
Separate Storage: For best results, keep marinated chicken and slaw in separate containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This is ideal if you plan to make the sandwich later.
Freezer: Wrap cooked chicken in freezer-safe wrap or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Assemble the sandwich with fresh slaw just before serving for that crunchy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with Cabbage Slaw are fantastic for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, which allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Meanwhile, the cabbage slaw can be prepared a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken and rest it for a few minutes before slicing. Toast the buns just before assembly for that delightful crispiness. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal any night of the week, saved for busy evenings when time is of the essence!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe chicken for my Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for those that are firm, with a rich pink coloring. Avoid any pieces that have dark spots or a slimy texture. Fresh chicken should ideally be purchased within 1 to 2 days of the use-by date for optimal flavor.
How should I store leftovers from the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
To maintain freshness, store the assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the slaw separate until you’re ready to eat, as this will help retain the crunch!
Can I freeze the cooked chicken for my sandwich?
Absolutely! For a quick meal later on, you can wrap the cooked chicken tightly in freezer-safe wrap or bags. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, then assemble with fresh slaw right before serving.
What if my chicken thighs come out dry after cooking?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking them. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If they do end up a bit dry, for next time, marinate longer (up to 2 hours) for added moisture or opt for using a non-stick grill with medium heat.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich contains soy sauce, which is a common allergen for those allergic to soy. If you have a gluten allergy, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, mayonnaise can be substituted with a vegan or egg-free alternative for those with egg allergies.
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Combine the shredded green and red cabbage with julienned carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, mayonnaise, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing until well-coated. Cover and chill until ready to assemble.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice each bun in half. Spread butter on the cut sides and toast them on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Place sliced chicken on the bottom half of each bun, drizzle with BBQ sauce if desired, and generously top with cabbage slaw. Press the top bun gently to hold everything together.
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