Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken fills the air as I bring this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich to life in my kitchen. It’s hard to resist the allure of crispy fried chicken draped in a luscious Gochujang glaze, paired with vibrant cabbage slaw that offers the perfect crunch. This recipe not only satisfies the cravings for a hearty, handheld meal but also elevates your weeknight dinners with its fusion of Korean flavors and American comfort. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights! Are you ready to bite into this flavor-packed wonder? Let’s dive in! Why is this sandwich a must-try? Unforgettable Flavor: The harmonious blend of Gochujang, honey, and soy sauce creates a sweet and spicy glaze that’s simply irresistible. Perfectly Crispy: Using a combination of flour and cornstarch ensures a shattering crust that holds up under the glaze, making each bite a glorious crunch. Easy to Make: Quick prep and cooking methods mean you can enjoy this delightful sandwich on a busy weeknight without the fuss. Versatile Surprise: Feel free to swap in chicken thighs for added juiciness or kick things up with jalapeño slaw for a spicy twist! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a sure hit for everyone, from families to dinner parties, transforming meals into memorable experiences. If you love hand-held meals like this, check out our Chicken Bacon Ranch for another delicious option! Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, halved for a clean, meaty bite that holds up well under the glaze. • Buttermilk – 1 cup for brining; it tenderizes the chicken while providing a sticky surface for the coating. • All-purpose Flour – 1/2 cup; this forms part of the crispy coating on your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. • Cornstarch – 1/2 cup; increases crunch and helps achieve that shattering crust. For the Glaze • Gochujang – 1/4 cup; gives the sandwich its signature spicy, umami flavor and glossy finish. • Honey – 2 tablespoons; adds sweetness and contributes to the glaze’s sheen. • Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons; enhances the savory depth in the glaze. • Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon; offers a hint of nuttiness for flavor complexity. For Assembling • Brioche Buns – 4 units; soft and pillowy, crucial for a well-balanced sandwich. • Cabbage – 2 cups, thinly shredded; it provides a crunchy, refreshing contrast beneath the chicken. • Green Scallions – 1 tablespoon, sliced; adds a fresh note and a pop of color. • White Sesame Seeds – 1 tablespoon; for garnishing and an added nutty touch. Enjoy crafting this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich as it brings together crispy, flavorful layers that will tantalize your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Begin by soaking the halved chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step tenderizes the meat and provides a sticky surface for the coating. While the chicken marinates, thinly shred 2 cups of cabbage and toss it with a splash of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt for a refreshing slaw. Step 2: Prepare the Coating In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch to create the crispy coating mixture for your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch blend, ensuring an even layer; let the coated chicken sit for 10 minutes to firm up. Step 3: Fry the Chicken Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C); use a thermometer to ensure accuracy. Carefully lower in the coated chicken and fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken turns a deep golden brown and releases a tantalizing aroma. Flip halfway through cooking for even browning. Once done, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Step 4: Make the Gochujang Glaze While the chicken is frying, combine 1/4 cup Gochujang, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a small saucepan. Over low heat, whisk the ingredients together until they simmer and thicken slightly, developing a glossy finish that enhances the flavors of your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Step 5: Toast the Buns Assemble your sandwich components by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the brioche buns in half and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 3–5 minutes, or until golden and lightly crisp. This prevents sogginess when the glazed chicken is added, ensuring a delightful bite. Step 6: Assemble Your Sandwich To build your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, start by layering a generous portion of the cabbage slaw on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Top with a piece of the crispy fried chicken, drizzling it generously with the Gochujang glaze. Finish each sandwich with a sprinkle of sliced green scallions and toasted sesame seeds before placing the top half of the bun on. Step 7: Serve and Savor Serve your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich immediately while the chicken is still warm and crispy. The combination of flavors from the sweet and spicy glaze with the crunch of the slaw makes for a satisfying and mouthwatering meal. Enjoy the delightful burst of flavors in every bite! Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich • Use Buttermilk Wisely: Soak your chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure every bite is tender and juicy, enhancing your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich. • Perfectly Coat the Chicken: Mix flour and cornstarch in equal parts for an extra-crispy crust. Avoid under-coating; every piece should be fully covered for ideal crunch! • Monitor Frying Temperature: A heavy-bottomed Dutch oven helps maintain the perfect oil temperature, ensuring consistent frying and preventing greasy chicken. • Avoid Soggy Buns: Always toast the brioche buns first. This simple step creates a barrier against the glaze, keeping your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich wonderfully crisp! • Time Your Assembly: Assemble sandwiches right before serving to maintain that crispiness in the chicken and freshness in the slaw. Enjoy the crunch! What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Build a delicious, fulfilling meal with these wonderful pairings that enhance the flavors of your crispy fusion sandwich. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweet and salty flavor complements the spicy glaze of the chicken, adding a delightful contrast to each bite. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This creamy, zesty dish garnished with cilantro and lime offers bright flavors and a crunchy texture, perfect against the savory sandwich. Pickled Radishes: A tangy addition that cuts through the richness, these pickles add a refreshing crunch and a beautiful pop of color to your plate. Szechuan-style Green Beans: Their slightly spicy and crunchy profile harmonizes with the sandwich while offering a delightful textural balance. Soda or Sparkling Water: A fizzy beverage offsets the savory-sweet flavors, enhancing the overall eating experience with its refreshing properties. Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet dish brings a lush, creamy finish to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the savory elements of the sandwich. Kale Salad with Sesame Dressing: The nutty sesame notes and crunchy kale provide a nutritious, fresh element, balancing the richness of the fried chicken. Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing drinks cleanse the palate and complement the spicy aspects of your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich perfectly! How to Store and Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it fresh while preserving the flavor and texture. Slaw: The cabbage slaw can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Store it separately to maintain its crunch. Freezer: If you have leftover fried chicken, freeze it individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the chicken in an air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich just as delicious as when it was freshly made! Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Variations Feel free to get creative with your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich and give it your personal touch for a unique experience! Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to add tenderness and juiciness, enhancing every bite’s flavor. Using thighs can bring an extra richness, making each sandwich even more indulgent. Jalapeño Slaw: Incorporate jalapeños into the slaw for an added kick of heat that elevates the flavor profile. This zesty twist will ignite your taste buds, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the glaze. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for the coating while keeping the cornstarch for crunch. You won’t miss the gluten as the crispy bite remains divine! Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with crispy fried tofu or cauliflower bites, and use agave syrup instead of honey for a plant-based glaze. It’s a delicious, cruelty-free way to enjoy all those flavors, ensuring everyone is accommodated at your table. BBQ Sauce Fusion: Replace Gochujang with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet take on this recipe. This will give your sandwich an entirely different flavor dimension that is sure to please BBQ lovers! Pickled Veggies: Add pickled carrots or radishes for tanginess, enhancing the sandwich’s overall freshness and crunch with each bite. These vibrant additions will brighten up your dish both visually and tastewise. Crunchy Cabbage Alternatives: Experiment with other crunchy veggies such as shredded Brussels sprouts or carrots as slaw options, introducing different textures. This twist allows you to play with flavors while keeping that satisfying crunch intact! If you’re looking for more incredible chicken options, don’t forget to try our Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or whip up some Sticky Chicken Rice for your next meal! Make Ahead Options These Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flavorful and tender results. Additionally, the cabbage slaw can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its crispness when dressed lightly in vinegar and salt. For the Gochujang glaze, prepare it ahead of time and store it in a glass jar for up to 2 weeks; just reheat before drizzling over the chicken. When ready to enjoy your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, simply fry the marinated chicken, toast the buns, and assemble for mouthwatering, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs How do I select the right chicken for this sandwich? Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They provide a clean and meaty bite, which is essential for holding up under the breading and glaze. If you’re looking for a juicier option, you might also consider chicken thighs. How long can I store leftovers from my Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich? Great question! You can store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the cabbage slaw separate, as it will retain its crunch for about 24 hours. Can I freeze the fried chicken from the sandwich? Yes! If you have leftover fried chicken, wrap each piece individually and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in an air fryer at 370°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that perfect crispness. What can I do if my chicken comes out soggy? The key to avoiding sogginess lies in two important steps. First, ensure that your brioche buns are toasted before adding any wet ingredients like glaze or slaw; this provides a barrier. Second, allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack after cooking to let excess oil drain off. Is this Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich safe for my pets? While the ingredients are generally safe, be cautious! Dogs can have soy sauce in small quantities, but it’s best to avoid any leftovers with glaze, as it may be too salty for them. As for cats, it’s wise to steer clear of giving them any human food without consulting your vet first. What if I have dietary restrictions such as gluten intolerance? Very! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken. Just make sure to double-check the cornstarch to ensure it’s also gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy a crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich without worry! Crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich You'll Crave Again and Again This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a delicious combination of crispy fried chicken and vibrant slaw, draped in a spicy Gochujang glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: ChickenCuisine: KoreanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved1 cup Buttermilk for brining1/2 cup All-purpose flour for coating1/2 cup Cornstarch for coatingFor the Glaze1/4 cup Gochujang spicy, umami flavor2 tablespoons Honey2 tablespoons Soy sauce1 teaspoon Sesame oil for flavor complexityFor Assembling4 pieces Brioche buns soft and pillowy2 cups Cabbage, thinly shredded for slaw1 tablespoon Green scallions, sliced1 tablespoon White sesame seeds for garnishing Equipment heavy-bottomed Dutch ovenmixing bowlsWhiskThermometerbaking sheet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBegin by soaking the halved chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch to create the coating mixture.Heat oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C) and fry the coated chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden brown.In a saucepan, combine 1/4 cup Gochujang, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil, whisking over low heat until thickened.Toast the brioche buns in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until golden.Assemble the sandwich with cabbage slaw, crispy chicken, Gochujang glaze, scallions, and sesame seeds.Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and crispy. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 24gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure to monitor frying temperatures and toast the buns to prevent sogginess. Assemble sandwiches right before serving to maintain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
