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Delicious Korean BBQ chicken served with side dishes

Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich

This Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich, layered with fresh cabbage slaw, is perfect for family gatherings, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: Korean-American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs Perfect for tenderness and flavor absorption.
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended) Helps in reducing sodium intake.
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar Balances the savory flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon honey Adds a touch of sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean fermented red chili paste) Provides heat and depth of flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar For acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger For added zest.
For the Cabbage Slaw
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage Fresh and crisp.
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 medium carrot (julienned)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise For creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar To enhance flavor balance.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Balances acidity.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
For Assembly
  • 4 pieces brioche or potato sandwich buns Choose high-quality for best flavor.
  • to taste Butter For toasting buns.
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Method
 

Marination
  1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cabbage Slaw Preparation
  1. In a separate bowl, mix green and red cabbage, carrot, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss until combined.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
Toast the Buns
  1. Melt butter in the skillet and toast the sandwich buns until golden brown.
Assemble the Sandwich
  1. Place sliced chicken on the bottom half of each bun, add cabbage slaw, green onions, and sesame seeds, then top with the other half of the bun.

Notes

For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours, but don’t exceed 24 hours. Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a beautiful sear. Adjust the vinegar in the slaw to taste.