As I bit into my first Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, a wave of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors swirled together, creating an unforgettable experience. There’s nothing quite like this mouthwatering fusion that blends the essence of Korean BBQ with the comforting familiarity of a homemade sandwich. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless prep—perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend gathering—and it’s easily customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings! With succulent chicken thighs, crispy pickles, and a zesty sriracha mayo, this dish promises to be a delightful surprise for anyone tired of the same old meals. Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game and dive into this delicious creation?

Why is this sandwich a must-try?

Irresistible flavors come together in this delicious sandwich, from the spicy kick of gochujang to the sweetness of honey in the BBQ sauce. Easy preparation ensures anyone can whip this up, making it a perfect fit for casual get-togethers or busy weeknights. Customizable components invite creativity, so consider adding toppings like avocado or crispy lettuce to suit your taste. Crowd-pleasing appeal guarantees leftovers will disappear quickly, leaving everyone asking for more! Looking for more delicious sandwiches? Check out my Chopped Chicken Bacon for another mouthwatering meal option.

Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich Ingredients

• Unlock the secrets to a flavorful feast!

For the Pickles

Seedless Cucumber – Perfect for pickling and adds a refreshing crunch.
Rice Vinegar – Essential for acidity; apple cider vinegar can be a tasty alternative.
Salt – Brings out the flavors in both the pickles and BBQ sauce.
Sugar – Balances acidity and sweetness; feel free to use honey for a different spin.
Ice – Chill the pickling solution quickly for best results.

For the BBQ Sauce

Sesame Oil – Provides a delicious nutty aroma; canola oil is a milder substitute.
Grated Garlic – Adds necessary depth; fresh is always best for flavor!
Grated Ginger – Infuses warmth into the sauce; ground ginger works in a pinch.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Delivers umami and depth; tamari keeps it gluten-free.
Gochujang – The star of spice; adjust to your heat preference.
Brown Sugar – Enriches sweetness; white sugar can serve as a stand-in.
Honey – Sweetens and glazes the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Korean BBQ Rub – A must for seasoning; combine garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder if in need!
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce; arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free alternative.

For the Sriracha Mayo

Mayo – A creamy base; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Sriracha – Adds a spicy kick to the mayo; adjust according to your taste buds.

For the Chicken Sandwich

Chicken Thighs – Moist and flavorful; breast meat can be a leaner choice.
Sandwich Buns/Rolls – Choose your favorite for that perfect delivery of goodness.

With these Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich ingredients, you’re well on your way to impressing your family and friends. Enjoy creating this mouthwatering treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Pickles
Slice the seedless cucumber into thin rounds and place them in a clean container. In a saucepan, combine rice vinegar, salt, and sugar, then bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 3 minutes until dissolved. Remove from heat, stir in heaping ice to cool, and pour this pickling solution over the cucumber. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 2: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 teaspoons of grated garlic and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. Simmer for 5 minutes, then mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the sauce until thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Sriracha Mayo
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayo, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of soy sauce. Whisk together until smooth and well incorporated. Set this zesty sriracha mayo aside; it will be a perfect complement to your Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich!

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, creating a two-zone cooking setup. While the grill heats up, season 1 pound of chicken thighs gently with the Korean BBQ rub and a drizzle of oil. Place the chicken on the grill over direct heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, until you achieve a nice char. Once browned, move the chicken to the indirect heat area and grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately another 10-15 minutes. After grilling, coat the chicken in the Korean BBQ sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Cut open your preferred sandwich buns and slather the cut sides with the prepared sriracha mayo. Lay a generous piece of the grilled chicken on the bottom half, topping it with a handful of your pickle slices for that crunchy contrast. Place the other half of the bun on top, press gently, and get ready to relish each bite of your flavorful Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich!

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the pickles and BBQ sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and flavorful. The chicken can also be grilled ahead of time—just refrigerate it after cooking, and reheat gently before serving for tender, juicy results. To assemble, spread the sriracha mayo on the buns, layer in the grilled chicken, and top with pickles right before serving for that crispy, tangy kick. Enjoy these tasty sandwiches without the last-minute rush!

How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Fridge: Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh. Consume within this timeframe for the best taste.

Pickles: Keep pickles in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store them in a tightly sealed jar to retain their crunch and zing.

Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy your Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich again.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven or on a stovetop to maintain its juiciness. Assemble the sandwich fresh right before serving for that delightful crunch.

Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this sandwich your own with these tasty substitutions and twists!

Dairy-Free: Use avocado or hummus instead of mayo to keep it creamy without dairy. This adds a rich, buttery texture.
Spicy Kick: Swap sriracha for gochujang in the mayo for an extra punch of authentic Korean heat. Perfect for heat seekers!
Vegetarian: Replace chicken thighs with grilled tofu for a delightful plant-based option; marinate it in soy sauce for added flavor.
Low-Carb: Use lettuce wraps instead of sandwich buns for a fresh, crunchy, and low-carb alternative. This adds a vibrant twist to your meal!
Sweet Enhancements: Add sliced mango or pineapple on the sandwich for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. A tropical touch to a classic favorite!
Crunchy Texture: Incorporate thinly sliced radishes or shredded carrots for a colorful crunch that brightens up each bite.
BBQ Blossom: For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika in your BBQ rub, enhancing the grill’s essence while adding depth.
Additional Sauces: Drizzle with a spicy peanut sauce over the chicken for a new layer of flavor, perfect for fans of bold taste.

With these Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich variations, there’s no limit to delicious combinations you can try. If you’re feeling inspired for more recipes, check out my Bang Bang Chicken for another flavorsome adventure!

What to Serve with Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

When it comes to creating a cozy meal, these perfect sides will complement the vibrant flavors of your sandwich beautifully.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crunch of these fries echo the BBQ sauce’s flavor while providing a delightful contrast in texture. Their crispy edges and soft interiors make them the ultimate companion for this sandwich.
Tangy Coleslaw: This refreshing side brings a zingy crunch that balances the savoriness of the grilled chicken and the creaminess of the sriracha mayo. A vibrant mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing makes each bite exciting!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: A delightful addition with its sweet, smoky flavor, grilled corn meshes well with the BBQ elements. Brush it with a bit of chili lime butter for a fun twist that echoes the Korean BBQ theme.
Asian Cucumber Salad: The cool, refreshing taste of this salad, made with sesame oil and rice vinegar, complements the richness of the chicken. Its crunch adds an inviting texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Miso Soup: An unexpected yet harmonious pairing, it offers a warm umami flavor that can soothe the palate between bites. The light broth prepares you for the next burst of spicy goodness in your sandwich.
Sparking Green Tea: Stay refreshed with this light beverage, as its subtle earthiness and natural antioxidants pair perfectly with the bold flavors of the grilled Korean BBQ chicken sandwich.
Baumkuchen Cake: Finish on a sweet note! This layered log cake’s delicate texture and hints of vanilla or caramel provide a satisfying contrast to the savory meal. Perfect for a light dessert after the meal!

Choose any of these delightful options to create a truly remarkable dining experience that your loved ones will remember.

Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Uniform Cucumber Slices: Slice cucumbers evenly for consistent pickling. This ensures all pieces absorb the vinegar adequately for maximum flavor.
Grilling Technique: Start with direct heat to get a nice char on the chicken. Then move to indirect heat to cook through without drying out the meat.
Temperature Check: Monitor the chicken’s internal temperature closely. It should reach 165°F for juicy, tender chicken—avoid overcooking!
Marination Time: For the best flavor, allow pickles to marinate overnight. This enhances their tanginess and crunch, making your sandwich even tastier.
Customization Options: Feel free to swap in grilled tofu for a vegetarian version of this Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich, or add your favorite toppings to personalize it!

Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cucumbers for pickling?
Absolutely! Look for seedless cucumbers that are firm with smooth skin. Avoid cucumbers with dark spots or soft patches, as these may indicate overripeness. The fresher the cucumber, the crunchier your pickles will be!

How should I store leftover sandwiches?
Very! Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the pickles separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I freeze the grilled chicken?
Yes, definitely! To freeze the cooked chicken, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.

What should I do if my BBQ sauce is too thick?
Not an uncommon issue! If your BBQ sauce turns out too thick, you can easily thin it by whisking in a bit of water or extra soy sauce over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Start with a tablespoon at a time, and remember to stir well!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! If you’re cooking for someone with soy allergies, you can substitute low sodium soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as coconut aminos. Also, if you have a friend who’s vegetarian, swap out the chicken thighs for grilled tofu for a delicious alternative that maintains the flavor profile of the Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

How long do pickles need to marinate?
To achieve the best flavor, let your pickles marinate in the vinegar solution for at least 4 hours, but I highly recommend an overnight soak. This gives them the perfect zesty crunch that complements the savory chicken beautifully.