Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this recipe while experimenting with Korean flavors in my kitchen. After several attempts to perfect the spicy sauce and crispy chicken, this sandwich became a household favorite. It's a blend of my love for Asian cuisine and my passion for creating hearty lunch options."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, specializing in fusion dishes. His innovative takes on traditional recipes have earned him acclaim in the culinary community. He enjoys sharing his passion for flavor-packed lunches with food enthusiasts everywhere.

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

Why This Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich Recipe Works

This Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich stands out due to its unique flavor profile, combining spicy, savory, and tangy elements. The crispy chicken is perfectly complemented by fresh vegetables and a rich sauce, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite. It's not just a sandwich; it's an experience.

The technique of marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures that it stays moist and tender while frying. Using panko breadcrumbs gives the chicken an extra crunch that elevates the overall texture, making each bite memorable.

💡 Professional Tip

To achieve the perfect crispy crust, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. A thermometer can help you gauge the temperature, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly without absorbing too much oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven for the best texture.

If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by mixing a cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and it will work perfectly for marinating your chicken.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the outside should be golden brown and crispy, indicating that the chicken is cooked through.

Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken separately from the assembled sandwich. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors. You can also serve it with more spicy sauce for an extra kick.

The assembled sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but if stored in the refrigerator, it can last for about 1-2 days. Be sure to keep the chicken separate from the buns to maintain crispiness.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the sandwich just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

To reheat, place the fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If the chicken appears dry after frying, it may not have been marinated long enough.

Solution: Ensure that the chicken is soaked in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes to achieve optimal moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low.

Solution: Make sure the oil is properly heated to around 350°F (175°C) before frying for that perfect crispy texture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.

Prevention: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and avoid cooking for too long.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it poses a food safety risk.

Recovery: Cut the chicken open and return it to the oil if necessary, cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt outer layer can indicate the oil was too hot.

Prevention: Adjust the heat to maintain a steady temperature during frying, ensuring even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the sandwich is too sweet, add a touch of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To counter too much salt, add more vegetables or a fresh topping like lettuce.

Bland: For bland flavor, drizzle more spicy sauce or add a pinch of salt before serving.

Fresh ingredients for Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich

The key ingredients in this sandwich are fresh chicken, a spicy marinade, and crispy toppings. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a delicious flavor explosion. Using high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables can significantly enhance the dish.

Opt for organic chicken if possible, and fresh produce will provide the best texture and taste. These ingredients combined ensure a memorable sandwich experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Choosing the right cut of chicken is essential. Boneless thighs can also be used for more flavor, but breast meat is leaner. Ensure it's fresh for optimal taste.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs. Look for unseasoned panko for best results.
  • Gochujang: Gochujang is a Korean chili paste that adds depth and heat to the sauce. A little goes a long way, so adjust according to your spice preference.
Cooking process for Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking this Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich is straightforward, with a few key steps to ensure perfect results. From marinating to frying, each phase builds on the last to create a delicious end product.

Pay attention to the frying process, as this is where the texture and flavor of the chicken develop. Properly assembling the sandwich with fresh toppings ties all the elements together.

Key Technique for Perfect Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich

The most crucial technique in this recipe is the marination of the chicken in buttermilk. This not only tenderizes the chicken but also allows the spices to penetrate for a rich flavor, contributing to a juicy and crispy final product.

Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    For base sauce
  • 2 tbsp gochujang
    Korean chili paste
  • 1 tbsp honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
    Adds depth

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For marinating
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    For extra crunch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For color
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
    For heat
  • 1 tsp salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 4 brioche buns
    For serving
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
    For crunch
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
    For freshness
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
    For garnish
  • 1/4 cup pickled radishes
    For tang

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    In a bowl, mix buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Soak the chicken pieces in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Coat Chicken

    In a shallow dish, combine flour and panko breadcrumbs. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat in the flour mix.

  3. Fry Chicken

    Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes each side.

  4. Make Sauce

    In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp gochujang, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tsp sesame oil for the spicy sauce.

  5. Toast Buns

    Lightly toast the brioche buns on a skillet until golden brown.

  6. Assemble Sandwich

    Spread the spicy sauce on both halves of the toasted buns. Layer shredded lettuce, fried chicken, cucumbers, green onions, and pickled radishes.

  7. Serve

    Close the sandwiches and serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have assembled sandwiches, keep the chicken separate from the buns to maintain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spicy Korean Chicken Sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. For an extra kick, provide additional spicy sauce for dipping.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this sandwich by using different proteins, such as tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with various toppings like kimchi or different sauces to suit your taste.