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Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw
Laura

Spicy Korean BBQ Chicken Sandwich with Crispy Slaw

Crispy chicken thighs glazed with spicy Korean BBQ sauce, topped with tangy cabbage slaw on toasted brioche buns. Perfect for family meals and weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Korean-American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs trimmed
  • 1/2 cup Korean BBQ sauce plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang paste for extra heat
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger freshly grated
  • 3 cups green cabbage finely shredded
  • 1 cup purple cabbage finely shredded
  • 1 large carrot julienned
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 4 brioche buns or potato rolls
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
  • sesame seeds for garnish
  • sliced scallions for topping
  • pickled jalapeños optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, mix Korean BBQ sauce, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken thighs and marinate for 15 minutes to 2 hours.
  2. For the slaw, toss green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrot in a large bowl. Whisk mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and honey in a small bowl. Pour over cabbage and toss well. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush with extra BBQ sauce in the last minute.
  4. Toast brioche buns lightly. Spread BBQ sauce on both bun halves. Layer slaw on bottom bun, add chicken, drizzle with more sauce. Top with sesame seeds, scallions, and pickled jalapeños if using.

Notes

  • Pat chicken completely dry before cooking for best browning
  • Make slaw just before serving to maintain crispness
  • Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken
  • Let chicken rest 2-3 minutes before assembling sandwiches