Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich while traveling through Seoul and became enamored with its bold flavors. After numerous attempts, I've perfected my version that combines traditional ingredients with a modern twist. This recipe has become a favorite amongst my friends and family, who love its unique taste and satisfying crunch. I'm excited to share this fusion delight with you!"

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience mastering Asian cuisine, specializing in lunch recipes that are both flavorful and easy to prepare. His passion for cooking led him to explore various culinary traditions, and he loves creating innovative dishes that bring comfort to the table. His expertise shines through every recipe he shares.

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

Why This Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich Recipe Works

This Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich stands out for its unique flavor profile, combining spicy, sweet, and savory elements that create a delightful taste sensation. The marinated chicken is grilled to juicy perfection, providing a satisfying bite that complements the fresh vegetables. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, making this sandwich truly special.

The technique of marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it tender during grilling. The quick preparation allows for a delicious meal in under an hour, making it ideal for busy lunch hours or casual gatherings. It's a recipe that guarantees great results every time.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour or overnight if possible. This enhances the taste and tenderness of the meat. Additionally, grilling the chicken over high heat ensures a nice char and smokiness that elevates the overall flavor of the sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the grilled chicken and allow it to cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and assemble the sandwiches. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests on a busy day.

If you don’t have gochujang, you can use a blend of red chili paste with a touch of miso for a similar depth of flavor. Alternatively, a mix of sriracha and soy sauce can provide some heat and umami, though it won’t be as authentic. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste.

The sandwich is ready when the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken should look charred on the outside but juicy inside. The vegetables should be fresh and crisp to add crunch to the sandwich.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. However, it's best to assemble the sandwich fresh, as the vegetables may not freeze well and could become soggy when thawed.

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a crunchy Asian slaw. A refreshing cucumber salad also complements the flavors well. For drinks, consider serving iced tea or a light beer to balance the spiciness of the sandwich.

When properly stored in an airtight container, the assembled Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich can last in the fridge for about 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume it within 24 hours of preparation.

You can prep the individual components in advance, such as marinating the chicken and chopping the vegetables. However, it’s best to grill the chicken and assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

To reheat the sandwich, you can place it in a hot oven or a skillet. If using the oven, wrap it in foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. A skillet works well too; just heat on medium until the chicken is hot and the bread is crispy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may be dry due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent this, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid grilling the chicken for too long.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The sandwich bread may not crisp up as desired.

Solution: To achieve a crispy roll, toast the bread on the grill or in an oven before assembling the sandwich.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken may become tough and chewy if overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent this, marinate your chicken and keep an eye on the cooking time, using a thermometer to ensure it reaches the right temperature without overcooking.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the chicken may be undercooked.

Recovery: If you suspect it's undercooked, return it to the grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Make sure to cut into the thickest part to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken may have a burnt exterior.

Prevention: Lower the grill heat or move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill if it starts to char too quickly. Keep an eye on it while cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the sandwich is too sweet, add a squeeze of lime or a bit of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the sandwich is too salty, add more vegetables or a slice of avocado to mellow the saltiness.

Bland: If the sandwich is bland, drizzle more gochujang sauce or add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

Fresh ingredients for Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich

Key ingredients like gochujang, soy sauce, and honey are essential for creating the rich, bold flavor profile of this sandwich. The marinated chicken is the star, but fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and cilantro add crunch and freshness. Together, these elements create a balanced and satisfying meal.

Quality ingredients are crucial in this recipe. Using fresh chicken, high-quality gochujang, and crisp vegetables will elevate your sandwich. Prioritize organic or locally sourced produce for the best taste and nutrition.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Gochujang: Gochujang is a fermented chili paste that adds depth and umami to your dish. Look for varieties with minimal additives for the best flavor. It's a staple in Korean cuisine, so stock up for future recipes.
  • Chicken: Choose skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a juicier sandwich. They hold up well to marinating and grilling, ensuring a tender result. If using breast meat, be cautious not to overcook it.
  • Vegetables: Fresh, crunchy vegetables like cucumbers and carrots enhance the texture and flavor of the sandwich. Opt for seasonal produce for the best quality, and slice them just before assembling to maintain their crispness.
Cooking process for Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich is straightforward and enjoyable. Begin by marinating the chicken, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the other ingredients. Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall taste.

Pay attention to grilling times and temperatures to achieve perfectly cooked chicken. The assembly is quick and easy, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors as you put together each sandwich.

Key Technique for Perfect Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich

The most important technique for this recipe is marinating the chicken for the right amount of time. This allows the flavors to penetrate and the chicken to become tender. Don't rush the marinating process; the longer it sits, the better the taste. Additionally, grilling it at a high heat will give you that perfect char and lock in the juices.

Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup gochujang
    Korean chili paste
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup sesame oil
    To add richness
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
    For aroma
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    To balance sweetness

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 6 sandwich rolls
    Your choice of bread
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
    Freshly grated
  • 1 cup sliced cucumbers
    For crunch
  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
    For freshness
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
    For garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    For topping
  • Salt to taste
    For seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.

  2. Marinate Chicken

    Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  4. Grill Chicken

    Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.

  5. Prepare Sandwich Rolls

    Slice the sandwich rolls in half and lightly toast them on the grill.

  6. Assemble Sandwiches

    Layer grilled chicken, shredded carrots, cucumbers, cilantro, and green onions on each roll.

  7. Garnish

    Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each sandwich.

  8. Serve

    Serve sandwiches warm, with additional sauce on the side if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover sandwiches, wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, consume them within 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spicy Korean BBQ Sandwich with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad. You can also pair it with pickled vegetables to enhance the flavors and provide a nice crunch.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this sandwich by using different proteins such as pork or tofu. Try adding kimchi for an extra kick or switching out the veggies based on seasonal availability.