Save The first time I made these Korean BBQ Chicken Wrap Grilled Cheeses, it was supposed to be a quick Tuesday night dinner. But the smell of gochujang caramelizing with honey filled the whole kitchen, and my roommate wandered in asking what restaurant I had ordered from. I ended up making three more batches that week because word somehow spread through our friend group.
I served these at a small dinner party last month when my friend Sarah was going through a breakup. She took one bite and actually stopped talking for a full thirty seconds, which is saying something. Now she requests them every time she comes over, and I have learned to always double the recipe.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Slicing them thin helps them absorb all that marinade quickly and cook evenly
- Gochujang: This Korean chili paste is what gives the dish its signature kick and deep red color
- Honey: Balances the heat and helps the chicken get those gorgeous caramelized edges
- Sesame oil: Use the toasted kind for that nutty aroma that makes everything taste better
- Mozzarella and cheddar blend: Mozzarella pulls beautifully while cheddar adds a sharp punch
- Scallions: Add them fresh at the end so they stay bright and crunchy
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken:
- Whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Toss the sliced chicken in this mixture and let it sit while you prep everything else. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for a minute or two to get some browning, then stir until cooked through and sticky. Toss in sesame seeds and scallions right at the end.
- Assemble the wraps:
- Layer the cheese blend on one half of each tortilla, then pile on that gorgeous BBQ chicken. Scatter extra scallions and a pinch of sesame seeds on top before folding.
- Grill to perfection:
- Butter the outside of each wrap generously and grill in a hot skillet for about three minutes per side. You want it golden brown with cheese starting to ooze out the edges.
Save My dad tried these when he was visiting and ended up eating three in one sitting. He is a man who usually complains about fusion anything, but the way the Korean flavors work with familiar grilled cheese just made sense to him. Now he texts me whenever he makes them himself.
Perfecting the Marinade
I have found that grating the ginger fresh instead of using the jarred stuff makes a huge difference. The same goes for garlic, mince it yourself rather than using the pre-minced kind. The marinade should coat the chicken pieces evenly without drowning them.
Getting That Golden Crust
Patience is key when grilling these wraps. Resist the urge to peek or flip too early. Let each side develop that deep golden brown color and you will be rewarded with the perfect crunch when you bite in.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are filling enough to stand alone but pair beautifully with something cool and crisp to balance the heat.
- A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar
- Kimchi straight from the jar
- Extra gochujang mixed with mayo for dipping
Save These wraps have become my go-to for feeding a crowd because everyone can customize them. Make a big batch of the chicken and set out different cheeses and toppings, then let people build their own.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the thinly sliced chicken for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
- → Can I use different cheeses for this dish?
Yes, mozzarella and cheddar work well, but provolone or Monterey Jack can also be delicious alternatives.
- → What kind of wrap is best suited for grilling?
Large flour tortillas hold the filling well and grill to a nice crisp exterior without breaking.
- → How can I add extra heat to the dish?
Incorporate sliced fresh chilies or a drizzle of sriracha inside the wrap before grilling for a spicier bite.
- → Is there a gluten-free option available?
Use gluten-free wraps and tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
- → What sides pair well with this grilled wrap?
Kimchi or a simple cabbage slaw complement the savory and spicy flavors very well.