Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
The Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw is a delightful fusion of flavors that is perfect for any gathering. This sandwich features succulent chicken marinated in a rich, flavorful sauce, complemented by a crunchy, vibrant slaw. Ideal for picnics, game days, or casual dinners, this recipe stands out with its balance of sweetness and spice. Every bite offers a taste adventure that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed: The marinade combines savory and sweet elements that create an irresistible taste.
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can whip up these sandwiches in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or party appetizer; serve it with sides like fries or salad!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, making it a wholesome choice for your meals.
- Customizable Slaw: Adjust the cabbage and carrot ratios to suit your taste or add other veggies for extra crunch.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw effectively, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill pan or skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine the marinade ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: This tool helps blend ingredients smoothly for an even marinade.
- Grill pan or skillet: Provides an excellent cooking surface for achieving that delicious char on the chicken.

Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs) (you can substitute with breasts, but thighs stay juicier)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean fermented red chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
For the Cabbage Slaw
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 4 brioche or potato sandwich buns
- Butter, for toasting buns
How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cabbage Slaw
- In another mixing bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrot, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well until all ingredients are evenly mixed. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade (discard excess) and place on the hot grill pan.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Toast brioche or potato buns in butter until golden brown.
- Place a piece of grilled chicken on each bun followed by a generous scoop of cabbage slaw.
- Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw!
How to Serve Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Enjoy your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw in various delightful ways. This dish is versatile and works well for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the sandwich warm, alongside a generous helping of cabbage slaw for crunch.
Add Extra Toppings
- Consider adding sliced jalapeños or pickled vegetables for an extra zing.
Pair with Dipping Sauce
- Provide a small bowl of extra gochujang or a spicy mayo on the side for dipping.
Create a Platter
- Arrange several sandwiches on a large platter, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.
How to Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
To elevate your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw, follow these handy tips.
- Choose the right chicken: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs to ensure maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Marinate overnight: For richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight before cooking.
- Toast the buns: Lightly butter and toast the sandwich buns to add texture and warmth.
- Balance flavors: Adjust sweetness and acidity in the slaw by tasting as you mix. A little more vinegar or sugar can make a big difference.
Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Complement your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw by serving these tasty side dishes. They enhance the meal while adding variety.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich. Bake or fry until golden brown.
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Kimchi: This traditional fermented side dish offers a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sandwich’s flavors.
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Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a healthy, protein-packed snack that balances out the meal.
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Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with veggies and shrimp or tofu offer a light, refreshing option.
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Cucumber Salad: A tangy cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar complements the richness of the sandwich.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth to your meal, offering umami flavors that mesh well with the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw even better. Here are some tips:
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Skipping marination: Failing to marinate the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
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Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs may result in a drier sandwich. Thighs are juicier and help maintain moisture during cooking.
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Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked without drying out.
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Neglecting the slaw: Ignoring the cabbage slaw can lead to a less crunchy texture. Mix it well and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors and crispiness.
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Forgetting to toast buns: Skipping this step means missing out on a delicious crunch. Lightly butter and toast the buns until golden for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, wrap sandwiches in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, covered, until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw:
What is gochujang?
Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that adds spice and depth of flavor. It’s essential for authentic Korean BBQ dishes.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey depending on your preference.
How can I customize the slaw?
You can add ingredients like sliced bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and flavor variations.
What can I serve with the Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw?
Consider serving this sandwich with sweet potato fries or a light salad to complement its rich flavors.
Final Thoughts
The Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or swapping proteins according to your taste. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy a delightful blend of flavors!
Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw
Indulge in the delicious fusion of flavors with our Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Cabbage Slaw. This mouthwatering dish features tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and topped with a crunchy, tangy cabbage slaw. Ideal for picnics, game days, or casual dinners, this sandwich is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that balances sweetness and spice in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 brioche or potato sandwich buns
- Butter for toasting buns
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, gochujang, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes.
- While marinating, prepare the slaw by mixing cabbages, julienned carrot, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Toast the buns in butter until golden brown. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken and a generous scoop of cabbage slaw.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
