Gochujang Chicken Sandwich

The Gochujang Chicken Sandwich is a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet Korean-inspired sandwich that’s perfect for anyone craving bold flavor. It features crispy or grilled chicken coated in a gochujang glaze and layered with crunchy toppings and creamy sauce on a soft, toasted bun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines bold Korean flavors with classic comfort food
• Customizable heat level with the gochujang glaze
• Crunchy, creamy, and juicy in every bite
• Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty game-day snack
• Easy to make in a pan, air fryer, or oven

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic, minced
• Vegetable oil or sesame oil
• Salt and pepper
• Potato starch or cornstarch (for dredging)
• Buns (brioche or potato rolls recommended)
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, pickles or kimchi, mayonnaise or gochujang mayo

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate the Chicken
   Combine gochujang, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and a little oil. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
2. Coat and Cook the Chicken
   Dredge marinated chicken in potato starch or cornstarch for extra crispiness. Cook by frying, pan-searing, or air frying until crispy and cooked through.
3. Prepare the Glaze
   In a pan, combine more gochujang, sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar. Simmer until slightly thickened. Brush over hot chicken or toss to coat.
4. Assemble the Sandwich
   Toast buns and spread mayo or gochujang mayo on each side. Add lettuce or slaw, top with glazed chicken, and finish with pickles or kimchi.
5. Serve Hot
   Serve immediately while the chicken is crispy and the glaze is warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: about 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Use grilled chicken for a lighter version
• Add cheese like pepper jack for extra richness
• Swap pickles with cucumber kimchi for more crunch
• Make it a wrap using tortillas or lettuce leaves
• Add fried egg for a brunch-style twist

Storage / reheating

• Store leftover chicken separately from buns and toppings
• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture
• Reassemble sandwiches fresh before serving

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean red chili paste made from fermented chili powder, glutinous rice, and soybeans. It’s spicy, sweet, and savory.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, use less gochujang and add a bit of honey or more sugar to mellow the heat.

What kind of chicken works best?

Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts can also be used if pounded thin.

Is this sandwich gluten-free?

Only if using gluten-free gochujang, soy sauce, and buns.

Can I bake the chicken instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.

Is gochujang the same as sriracha?

No. Gochujang is thicker, fermented, and more complex. Sriracha is thinner and tangier.

What can I serve with it?

Great sides include fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or cucumber salad.

Can I use store-bought gochujang sauce?

Yes, but adjust sweetness and salt to your taste.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, all main components are dairy-free if using a dairy-free bun and mayo.

How long does gochujang last?

Unopened, it lasts for months; once opened, refrigerate and use within 6 months to a year.

Conclusion

The Gochujang Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful fusion meal that delivers heat, crunch, and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this sandwich is sure to satisfy cravings for something bold and delicious. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite sandwich.

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