When it comes to flavors that excite your palate, few cuisines are as vibrant and satisfying as Korean food. Among the many delectable choices, the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich stands out with its bold taste and mouthwatering components. This sandwich is a perfect blend of juicy, marinated chicken, tangy pickles, and a creamy sriracha mayo that comes together effortlessly. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this sandwich is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe
You may wonder what makes the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich so special. First and foremost, it encapsulates the essence of balance in flavor. With the smoky grilled chicken, zesty pickles, and a creamy yet spicy mayo, each bite is an explosion of taste. This sandwich not only pleases the senses but also provides an element of culinary adventure.
In terms of convenience, the recipe allows you to prepare the components ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add extra veggies, change up the sauces, or serve it differently according to your preferences. You’ll always be left with a satisfying meal that radiates warmth and comfort.
So, grab your apron and let’s get started!
Ingredients about Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
When it comes to crafting the perfect Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, using fresh and high-quality ingredients matters. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavor explosion:
- 1 whole seedless cucumber, sliced into 1/8 inch rounds
- 1 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup ice (heaping cup)
- Extra water (to top off the container)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons gochujang (adjust based on your heat tolerance)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Korean BBQ rub
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for slurry)
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
- 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat)
- 1/4 cup Korean BBQ rub
- Sandwich buns or rolls
How to Make Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Directions
Creating this divine sandwich involves a few simple yet rewarding steps. Your first task is preparing quick pickles, which will add a refreshing crunch to balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Start by making the quick pickles. In a mixing bowl, combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, and ice. Stir this until everything is dissolved. Once that’s done, toss in the cucumber rounds and top off the container with extra water. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to infuse into the cucumbers.
Next, let’s whip up the Korean BBQ sauce. Grab another mixing bowl and blend together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar until you achieve a smooth consistency. This sauce is going to coat your chicken and elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Now, let’s make the creamy sriracha mayo that adds an extra layer of flavor to your sandwich. In a small bowl, mix together mayo, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Stir it well until you have a smooth sauce that you can’t wait to drizzle on your sandwich.
The next step is marinating the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, coat your boneless, skinless chicken thighs thoroughly with the Korean BBQ sauce you just made. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, feel free to let it sit longer to enhance the flavors even more.
With your chicken marinating, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s ready, place your chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You should aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). In the final minutes of grilling, brush additional BBQ sauce on the chicken to lock in even more flavor.
While your chicken is grilling, toast the sandwich buns on the grill until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds texture and warmth to your sandwich.
Now, it’s time to assemble your masterpiece. Take a grilled bun and place the juicy chicken thigh on it. Add the quick pickles generously and finish with a drizzle of the creamy sriracha mayo. Cap it off with the top bun and get ready to experience flavor perfection.
How to Serve Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Presenting your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich in an enticing way can elevate the whole meal experience. Consider serving it with a side of crispy fries, a vibrant salad, or even some kimchi for an authentic Korean touch. You can also include extra dipping sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor.
Whether you’re serving this during a casual lunch, a dinner gathering, or an outdoor barbecue, make sure to keep the sandwiches warm. Wrapping them lightly in parchment paper can help maintain warmth and is also a visually appealing option for serving.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your sandwiches with refreshing beverages like iced tea or a fruit-infused sparkling water.
Expert Tips: Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
To ensure your Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich exceeds your expectations, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Marination Duration: For more flavorful chicken, marinate the thighs for a longer period. If you can, leave them in the fridge overnight.
- Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is properly heated before cooking. A consistent medium-high heat helps achieve a good char without drying out the chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: If you have multiple chicken pieces, make sure not to overcrowd the grill. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To accurately check the doneness, use a meat thermometer and make sure the chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add some fresh herbs, like cilantro, or even slices of avocado for an extra touch of creaminess in your sandwich.
By following these tips, you’ll enhance each component of the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, taking it to the next level.
How to Store Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence, but it can happen!), it’s easy to store the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Individually wrap any leftover sandwiches in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
If you’d like to keep the components separate, store the grilled chicken in one container and the pickles and sauce in others. This will help maintain the integrity of each ingredient. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the chicken and assemble the sandwich with fresh bits for the best experience.
Variation of Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
The beauty of the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich lies in its versatility. Here are several ideas for variations to keep your meals exciting:
- Different Proteins: Instead of chicken thighs, consider using chicken breasts, tofu, or even shrimp for a change. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
- Adding Veggies: Enhance your sandwich by adding fresh vegetables like sliced radishes, shredded lettuce, or even grilled onions. These elements will add crunch and extra nutrients.
- Different Buns: Experiment with various types of buns such as brioche, ciabatta, or even whole-grain options for a healthier choice.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of gochujang and sriracha based on your spice tolerance. You could even try adding a touch of sweet chili sauce for something different.
- Dressings: Instead of sriracha mayo, you could use a tangy yogurt sauce or a cilantro lime dressing for a fresh twist.
Each variation gives you the chance to savor new aspects of flavor and texture while staying true to the heart of this delicious sandwich.
FAQ Section
What is a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
A Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful meal featuring marinated grilled chicken thighs, quick pickles, and a creamy sriracha mayo, all nestled between toasted sandwich buns.
How do I make the chicken more flavorful for the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
To enhance the flavor, let the chicken marinate for a longer time—overnight is ideal—for deeper flavor absorption.
Can I prepare the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and make the sauces ahead of time. Just assemble the sandwich right before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.
What can I serve with a Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
This sandwich pairs well with sides like crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even traditional kimchi for an authentic taste.
Is it easy to customize the Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
Absolutely! You can change the protein, try different toppings, or adjust the spice levels according to your preference, making each sandwich unique.
Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients
For the Quick Pickles
- 1 whole seedless cucumber, sliced into 1/8 inch rounds
- 1 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup ice (heaping cup) Plus extra water to top off the container
For the Korean BBQ Sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons gochujang (adjust based on heat tolerance)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Korean BBQ rub
- 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for slurry)
For the Creamy Sriracha Mayo
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon low sodium soy sauce
For the Sandwich
- 2.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless skinless and trimmed of extra fat)
- 1/4 cup Korean BBQ rub
- 4 pieces sandwich buns or rolls
Instructions
Preparation of Quick Pickles
- In a mixing bowl, combine rice vinegar, salt, sugar, and ice. Stir until dissolved.
- Toss in the cucumber rounds and top off the container with extra water. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Making Korean BBQ Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, blend together sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
Preparing Sriracha Mayo
- In a small bowl, mix together mayo, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth.
Marinating the Chicken
- Coat chicken thighs thoroughly with the Korean BBQ sauce and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Brush additional BBQ sauce during the last minutes.
- Toast sandwich buns on the grill until golden brown.
Assembly
- Take a grilled bun, place the juicy chicken thigh on it, add quick pickles, and drizzle with creamy sriracha mayo. Cap with the top bun.
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