Chef Mitchell preparing Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the magic of Korean BBQ during a trip to Seoul, where the flavors captivated my taste buds. After returning home, I perfected this sandwich recipe to bring that experience to my kitchen. The combination of marinated chicken and fresh toppings creates a delicious meal that everyone loves. It's a staple in my home, and I can't wait for you to try it!"

As a chef specializing in Asian cuisine, I have spent years exploring the vibrant flavors and techniques of different cultures. My passion lies in creating lunch recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich perfectly embodies this philosophy, bringing joy to every mealtime.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich served on a plate

Why This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe Works

This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky taste that pairs beautifully with the crunchy coleslaw. The freshness of cucumbers and the heat from jalapeños elevate the dish, making it an exciting option for lunch.

The technique used in marinating the chicken ensures deep flavor absorption, making every bite irresistible. Additionally, the balance between the creamy slaw and the savory chicken creates a satisfying meal that pleases the palate.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour. This will enhance the flavors significantly. Also, don’t skip toasting the bread, as it adds texture and prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coleslaw in advance. Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The coleslaw can also be made ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain freshness.

If you're looking for a substitute, grilled tofu or tempeh works great for a vegetarian option. For a lighter meal, you could use grilled shrimp or turkey, which will also soak up the flavors of the marinade beautifully.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check if it's no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. If you're using tofu or another protein, ensure it's heated through and has a nice char on the outside.

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Once cooked, it's best to consume the sandwich fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken separately. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before assembling your sandwich.

This sandwich pairs well with sides like sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. You could also enjoy it with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean twist.

When stored properly in an airtight container, the components of the sandwich will last about 3 days in the fridge. However, it's best to consume the sandwich within 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture.

Yes, elements of the sandwich can be prepared in advance. The chicken can be marinated and cooked ahead of time, and the coleslaw can be mixed and refrigerated. Just assemble the sandwich when ready to serve for the best experience.

To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to keep the bread crispy, you can reheat the chicken in a pan on the stove and toast the sandwich rolls separately.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken turns out dry, it may be overcooked or not marinated long enough.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure that the chicken is marinated for at least 30 minutes and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the sandwich isn't crispy, the bread may not have been toasted properly.

Solution: Try toasting the sandwich rolls on a higher heat for a shorter period or use a panini press for a better sear.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it will be tough and dry.

Prevention: Monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without overcooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the chicken is undercooked, it poses a food safety risk.

Recovery: Slice the chicken into smaller pieces and return to the grill or pan until fully cooked, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior on the chicken can occur from cooking on too high heat.

Prevention: Cook the chicken over medium heat and keep a close eye on it, turning regularly to avoid burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your sandwich is too sweet from the BBQ sauce, add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, adding more fresh vegetables like cucumbers can help offset the saltiness.

Bland: To enhance flavor, consider adding more seasoning to the chicken or additional toppings like spicy mayo.

Fresh ingredients for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Essential Ingredients for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

The key ingredient in this sandwich is the chicken, which benefits greatly from marination in a rich Korean BBQ sauce. This sauce not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Fresh vegetables like cucumbers and cilantro provide a refreshing crunch, while the coleslaw offers a creamy element that balances the dish.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best results. Opt for fresh, organic chicken and vegetables when possible. The BBQ sauce should be authentic for the true Korean flavor, and homemade coleslaw can elevate the sandwich even further.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier sandwich. Thighs tend to absorb flavors better than breasts and stay moist during cooking.
  • Korean BBQ Sauce: Look for a sauce with a balance of sweetness and spice. If you prefer a homemade version, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
  • Coleslaw: Make your coleslaw fresh using a mix of cabbage and carrots. A homemade dressing adds a personal touch, making it more flavorful than store-bought options.
Cooking process for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

This cooking process involves marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, followed by grilling to achieve that perfect char. Preparing the coleslaw while the chicken cooks ensures everything is ready at once, making for a seamless meal prep.

To achieve perfect results, pay attention to the cooking time for the chicken, ensuring it’s juicy and tender while the bread is toasted just right for a satisfying crunch.

Key Technique for Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

The most important technique for this sandwich lies in the marination process. Allowing the chicken to sit in the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes (or longer) ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in a deliciously savory sandwich.

Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Korean BBQ sauce
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
    For added flavor
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
    For coleslaw dressing
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup coleslaw mix
    For crunch
  • 6 sandwich rolls
    Freshly baked
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
    For freshness
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
    Chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with Korean BBQ sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare Coleslaw

    In a separate bowl, mix coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

  3. Cook Chicken

    Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook marinated chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.

  4. Toast Sandwich Rolls

    While the chicken is cooking, lightly toast the sandwich rolls on the grill or in a pan.

  5. Assemble Sandwich

    Spread the coleslaw mixture on the bottom half of each sandwich roll.

  6. Add Chicken and Toppings

    Place cooked chicken on top of the coleslaw, then add sliced cucumbers, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro.

  7. Sprinkle with Sesame Seeds

    Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds over the toppings.

  8. Close and Serve

    Top with the other half of the sandwich roll, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover sandwiches, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken separately from the bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad. You can also add a small bowl of kimchi for an authentic Korean touch.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this sandwich by adding ingredients like avocado, spicy mayo, or grilled vegetables. For a different flavor profile, try using different proteins such as pork or mushrooms.