Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders: Perfect for Summer Picnics

There’s something magical about summer gatherings that calls for food that’s bold, fun, and effortlessly delicious. These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders hit all those notes and more, delivering an explosion of flavor in every bite-sized package. Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics in the park, or any warm-weather celebration, these handheld delights combine the irresistible sweet-spicy kick of Korean barbecue with the casual charm of slider buns.

What makes these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders so special is the perfect harmony between the tender, marinated chicken thighs, the creamy sriracha mayo, and the fresh crunch of cabbage slaw. The gochujang-based marinade infuses the chicken with that signature Korean barbecue flavor – a little sweet, a little savory, and packed with just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to spice up your family dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to be the star of the show.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about crafting these sensational sliders. From selecting the perfect ingredients to mastering the marinade, grilling techniques, and assembly tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. So let’s dive into the world of Korean-inspired flavors and create something truly spectacular for your next summer gathering!

Why Choose Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders for Your Summer Menu?

When planning the perfect summer menu, versatility and crowd-pleasing flavors are key. Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders offer both in abundance, along with several other compelling reasons to add them to your repertoire.

First and foremost, these sliders represent the perfect fusion of Korean barbecue traditions and American casual dining. The bold flavors of gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil introduce many palates to Korean cuisine in an approachable format. Sliders, with their perfect two-to-three-bite size, allow guests to sample these exciting flavors without committing to a full-sized sandwich.

The portability factor cannot be overstated for summer entertaining. These sliders can be easily transported to picnics, beach outings, or poolside gatherings. Unlike many picnic foods that wilt or lose their appeal when sitting out, these sliders actually maintain their integrity and flavor profile at room temperature for a reasonable amount of time.

Another advantage is their make-ahead potential. Nearly every component—from the marinade to the sriracha mayo—can be prepared in advance, making day-of assembly quick and stress-free. This leaves you more time to enjoy your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen during your gathering.

Equipment Needed for Perfect Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders

Creating these mouthwatering Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders doesn’t require specialized equipment, but having the right tools on hand will streamline your preparation and cooking process.

For the marinade, a medium-sized mixing bowl and whisk are essential for combining ingredients smoothly. A resealable plastic bag or shallow glass container works well for marinating the chicken, allowing the flavors to penetrate evenly from all sides. If you plan to make the marinade ahead of time, having airtight storage containers on hand keeps everything fresh until you’re ready to use it.

When it comes to cooking, flexibility is key. A grill—whether gas, charcoal, or electric—delivers that authentic barbecue char and smoky flavor. However, a heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan works wonderfully for indoor cooking, especially when grilling outdoors isn’t an option. An instant-read meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken to perfection, ensuring it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

For serving, consider a large platter with raised edges to contain any delicious juices that might escape the sliders. Small skewers or decorative toothpicks help hold the sliders together and add a festive touch to your presentation. Don’t forget serving tongs or a spatula for easy self-service if you’re setting up a slider bar where guests can build their own.

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Selecting the Right Chicken

The foundation of outstanding Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders begins with choosing the right cut of chicken. While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, understanding your options helps you customize according to your preferences and needs.

Chicken thighs are the preferred choice for these sliders for several compelling reasons. Their higher fat content means they remain juicy and tender even when grilled over high heat, and they’re much more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Thighs also absorb marinade more readily than breast meat, resulting in more flavorful results. The slightly richer flavor of dark meat pairs beautifully with the bold Korean barbecue marinade, creating a more satisfying flavor profile.

If you prefer white meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts can certainly be substituted. Keep in mind that breast meat cooks more quickly and is prone to drying out, so you’ll want to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Consider pounding breast meat to an even thickness of about ½ inch to ensure uniform cooking and maximum tenderness. For the best results with chicken breast, don’t marinate longer than 4-6 hours, as the acidic components in the marinade can actually begin to toughen the meat if left too long.

Whether you choose thighs or breasts, look for chicken that’s fresh, with a plump appearance and no strong odor. If possible, opt for free-range or organic chicken, which often delivers superior flavor and texture. Quality matters when the chicken is the star ingredient!

Ingredient flatlay for Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders with gochujang, Hawaiian rolls and coleslaw
Everything you need to make perfect Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders at home for your summer picnic

The Magic of Gochujang in Korean BBQ

At the heart of these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders lies gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste that delivers a complex flavor impossible to replicate with other ingredients. Understanding this cornerstone of Korean cuisine will help you appreciate what makes these sliders so special.

Gochujang is a thick, sticky paste made from fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, salt, and Korean red chili peppers. The fermentation process—which traditionally takes years—develops a deep umami character with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. This complex flavor profile is what gives Korean barbecue its distinctive taste that’s simultaneously familiar and exotic to many Western palates.

When shopping for gochujang, you’ll find it comes in different heat levels, typically indicated by a number on the container (usually 1-5). For these sliders, a medium heat level (around 3) works well for most audiences, providing noticeable spice without overwhelming the other flavors. If you’re serving guests who are particularly sensitive to heat, opt for a milder version (1-2), or adjust the quantity in your marinade.

Most well-stocked supermarkets now carry gochujang in the international foods section, though Asian markets offer a wider selection of brands and heat levels. Once opened, gochujang should be refrigerated, where it will keep for up to a year. If you can’t find gochujang locally, there are online sources, or you can create a simplified substitute by mixing together 2 tablespoons of miso paste, 1 tablespoon of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru), 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of honey or sugar. While not an exact match, this will approximate some of the key flavor notes.

Balancing Flavors in the Marinade

The marinade for Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders is a masterclass in flavor balance, with each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating that perfect sweet-spicy-savory profile that makes Korean barbecue so addictive.

Low-sodium soy sauce provides the umami foundation and saltiness, while also helping tenderize the chicken. Using low-sodium allows you to control the overall salt level better, as gochujang already contains salt from its fermentation process. The honey contributes essential sweetness that balances the heat from the gochujang and creates those beautiful caramelized edges when grilled.

Rice vinegar adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the chicken and helping to tenderize the meat. Its mild, slightly sweet character doesn’t overpower the other flavors like stronger vinegars might. The sesame oil, with its distinctive nutty aroma, is a signature flavor in Korean cuisine that adds depth and complexity even in small amounts.

Garlic and ginger form the aromatic base of the marinade, providing fresh, pungent notes that permeate the chicken. These ingredients are best used freshly minced or grated rather than from a jar for the most vibrant flavor. If you’re particularly fond of either flavor, feel free to increase the amounts slightly.

The marinade’s power lies not just in its ingredient list but in the transformative time it spends with the chicken. The minimum two-hour marinating period allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, while an overnight marinade yields even more spectacular results as the proteins break down and absorb more of the complex flavors.

Choosing the Perfect Buns

The humble slider bun plays a crucial supporting role in these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders, providing both structure and complementary flavor to the boldly seasoned chicken.

Potato rolls, as suggested in the recipe, are an excellent choice for several reasons. Their slightly sweet flavor creates a pleasant contrast with the savory-spicy chicken, while their soft, pillowy texture offers the perfect bite resistance. The sturdy structure of potato rolls also holds up well to the juicy chicken and sauces without becoming soggy too quickly.

If potato rolls aren’t available, Hawaiian sweet rolls make a wonderful alternative, adding a touch more sweetness that pairs beautifully with the Korean barbecue flavors. For a more neutral option, standard dinner rolls or mini brioche buns work well too. Those looking for a healthier alternative might consider whole wheat slider buns, though be aware they tend to have a denser texture.

The size of your buns should match your chicken pieces once cooked and sliced. Ideally, the chicken should extend just slightly beyond the edges of the bun for that appetizing, overflowing look that showcases the star ingredient. Remember that toasting the buns isn’t just for appearance—it creates a light barrier that helps prevent the bottom bun from becoming soggy too quickly from the juicy chicken and sauce.

Master Techniques for Perfect Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders

Marinating Secrets for Maximum Flavor

The marination process is where the magic begins for truly exceptional Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders. Mastering this crucial step ensures your chicken is infused with that perfect balance of flavors.

When combining your marinade ingredients, whisk thoroughly to ensure the honey is completely incorporated with no undissolved sugars remaining at the bottom of the bowl. This ensures even sweetness throughout the marinade. For an ultra-smooth marinade, consider blending the ingredients in a food processor or blender, which helps break down the garlic and ginger for more even distribution of flavors.

While a resealable plastic bag is convenient for marinating, a shallow glass or ceramic dish offers advantages. The wider surface area allows the chicken pieces to lie flat without overlapping, ensuring more consistent flavor absorption. Whichever container you choose, turn the chicken occasionally during marination to ensure even flavor penetration.

The marinade’s acidic components (rice vinegar) begin breaking down muscle fibers immediately, while the salt (from soy sauce and gochujang) helps the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat through osmosis. This is why longer marination yields more flavorful results. However, there is such a thing as too long—beyond 24 hours, the acid can begin to “cook” the proteins, resulting in a mushy exterior texture.

If you’re short on time, there are tricks to accelerate flavor absorption. Try scoring the chicken with shallow cuts before marinating, creating more surface area for the marinade to penetrate. Alternatively, use the “massage method”: place chicken and marinade in a resealable bag and gently massage for 2-3 minutes before refrigerating, which helps work the flavors into the meat more quickly.

Grilling vs. Skillet Cooking: Pros and Cons

The cooking method you choose for your Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders significantly impacts their final flavor and texture. Both grilling and stovetop cooking have distinct advantages, and understanding the differences helps you achieve the best results for your specific situation.

Grilling is the traditional method for Korean barbecue and offers several benefits. The direct heat creates beautiful grill marks and that characteristic charred exterior that contributes to the authentic flavor profile. The caramelization of the marinade’s sugars on the grill creates complex flavor compounds that can’t be replicated in a pan. Additionally, any fat rendering from the chicken drips away, resulting in a slightly leaner final product.

For optimal grilling results, preheat your grill to medium-high (375–400°F) and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Cook with the lid closed between turning to maintain consistent temperature. The marinade’s sugar content means these chicken pieces can burn quickly, so monitor them closely and move to a cooler part of the grill if they’re darkening too fast.

Skillet cooking offers its own set of advantages, particularly consistency and convenience. A heavy-bottomed cast iron skillet or grill pan maintains steady heat and allows the chicken to cook in some of its own juices, often resulting in moister meat. The constant contact with the cooking surface creates an attractive, even caramelization across the entire surface of the chicken.

For skillet cooking, use medium heat rather than high to prevent burning the sugars in the marinade. A light coating of sesame oil in the pan enhances the Korean flavor profile. The key to successful stovetop cooking is patience—resist the urge to frequently move the chicken, allowing each side to develop a beautiful caramelized crust before turning.

Whichever method you choose, the internal temperature goal remains the same: 165°F for food safety. An instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out of determining doneness.

Creating the Perfect Sriracha Mayo

The sriracha mayo for these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders might seem like a simple condiment, but it’s actually a crucial component that ties all the flavors together with its creamy heat.

Start with high-quality mayonnaise as your base—either store-bought or homemade works well. Full-fat mayonnaise provides the richest flavor and smoothest texture, though reduced-fat versions can work in a pinch. The recipe suggests a ratio of ½ cup mayonnaise to 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, but this is just a starting point. The beauty of making your own sauce is the ability to customize the heat level precisely to your taste.

When adding the sriracha, start with a smaller amount than you think you’ll need, then taste and adjust. Remember that the heat perception will be different when the sauce is paired with the other slider components—what might seem mild on its own could be perfectly balanced when combined with the sweet-spicy chicken and fresh slaw.

For more complexity, consider adding extras to your sriracha mayo. A teaspoon of toasted sesame oil reinforces the Korean flavor profile, while a squeeze of lime juice adds brightness. A half teaspoon of honey can help balance the heat while complementing the sweetness in the chicken marinade. Finely minced garlic (about ¼ teaspoon) adds another dimension of flavor that works beautifully with the existing profile.

Prepare the sriracha mayo at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld, keeping it refrigerated until needed. The sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making it a perfect component to prepare ahead for entertaining.

Assembling for Maximum Impact

The assembly of your Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders might seem straightforward, but thoughtful construction makes the difference between good sliders and truly memorable ones.

Start with your toasted buns, which should be warm but not hot when you begin assembly. Spread the sriracha mayo generously on both top and bottom buns—this double application ensures moisture and flavor in every bite while creating a slight barrier that helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy too quickly.

When slicing your rested chicken for the sliders, cut against the grain to maximize tenderness. For chicken thighs, the grain can run in different directions throughout the piece, so pay attention and adjust your cutting angle as needed. Aim for pieces that are slightly larger than your bun, as they’ll create that appealing overhang that showcases the star ingredient.

The cabbage slaw should be added just before serving to maintain its crunch. Rather than using the slaw as just another ingredient, think of it as a crucial textural element that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and soft buns. The cold crunch of the slaw against the warm chicken creates a temperature contrast that makes each bite more interesting.

Top with a sprinkle of chopped scallions and sesame seeds—this isn’t just for appearance. The scallions add a fresh, sharp bite that cuts through the richness, while toasted sesame seeds contribute a nutty flavor and subtle textural crunch that reinforces the Korean flavor profile.

If you’re serving these at a party, consider setting up a slider bar where guests can assemble their own. Provide the components separately: warm toasted buns, sliced chicken in a covered dish to retain heat, sriracha mayo in a squeeze bottle for easy application, and cold slaw and garnishes in separate bowls. This interactive approach not only takes pressure off you as the host but also allows guests to customize their sliders according to their preferences.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Creating an Instagram-Worthy Platter

In today’s social media-driven world, presentation isn’t just about pleasing your dinner guests—it’s about creating a visual feast worthy of sharing online. These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders lend themselves beautifully to stunning presentation with just a little extra effort.

Start with the right platter: wooden serving boards offer rustic charm that complements the casual nature of sliders, while white ceramic platters create a clean backdrop that makes the colorful components pop. For an outdoor gathering, consider a large slate board, which not only looks elegant but also holds up well to the elements.

Arrangement is key to visual appeal. Rather than lining up sliders in straight rows, try a circular pattern around the edge of your platter with a small bowl of extra sauce or garnishes in the center. Alternatively, stagger them in a cascading pattern across a rectangular board, creating the impression of abundance. If you’re serving a large crowd, consider using multiple smaller platters distributed across your serving area rather than one large one—this creates visual interest and makes it easier for guests to access the sliders from different spots.

Garnishes elevate the presentation from basic to spectacular. Scatter additional sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions across the platter, allowing some to fall naturally around the sliders. Fresh cilantro leaves, thinly sliced radishes, or even edible flowers can add pops of color that make the platter truly eye-catching. Small wedges of lime placed strategically around the platter add both color and functionality, as guests can squeeze them over their sliders for an extra hint of brightness.

For the finishing touch, secure each slider with a decorative toothpick or small skewer. These not only help hold the sliders together but also add height and visual interest to your presentation. Look for toothpicks with colorful tops or small paper flags for a festive feel.

Single Korean BBQ Chicken Slider with glossy sauce dripping and green onion garnish
Our Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders feature tender chicken pieces in a sticky-sweet gochujang glaze

Complementary Side Dishes

While these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders are satisfying on their own, thoughtfully chosen side dishes create a complete meal that enhances the overall dining experience.

For a cohesive Korean-inspired spread, consider traditional accompaniments like quick cucumber kimchi, which provides a cool, tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm sliders. A simple sesame spinach salad (sigeumchi namul) offers a nutritious green component that’s authentically Korean yet accessible to most palates. Both of these sides can be prepared ahead, making them perfect for entertaining.

For more familiar options that still complement the Korean flavors, consider an Asian-inspired coleslaw dressed with rice vinegar, a touch of sesame oil, and a hint of honey. This echoes the flavors in the sliders while adding a refreshing crunch to the meal. Sweet potato fries seasoned with a light dusting of five-spice powder make an excellent hot side dish that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet-spicy profile of the sliders.

Don’t forget about cold sides, which are particularly welcome at summer gatherings. Watermelon chunks tossed with a little mint and lime juice create a refreshing counterpoint to the bold flavors of the sliders. For something more substantial, a cold sesame noodle salad with julienned vegetables stands up well to outdoor serving conditions and complements the Korean flavor profile.

When planning beverages, consider options that will stand up to the bold flavors without overwhelming them. Crisp Asian lagers work beautifully, as do lightly sweet white wines like Riesling or Gewürztraminer. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water infused with cucumber and mint offers refreshing contrast, while Korean barley tea (boricha) provides an authentic pairing that’s particularly refreshing when served cold.

Nutritional Insights and Dietary Adaptations

Making These Sliders Healthier

While these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders are already relatively balanced in their original form, several thoughtful modifications can create a healthier version without sacrificing the essential flavor experience.

Starting with the chicken, consider removing any visible fat from the thighs before marinating, or substitute chicken breasts for a leaner protein option. If using breasts, be especially careful not to overcook them, as they dry out more quickly than thighs. The marinade itself can be modified by reducing the honey to 1 tablespoon and increasing the ginger (which adds flavor without calories), resulting in a slightly less sweet but equally flavorful profile.

For the buns, whole grain slider rolls provide more fiber and nutrients than their white counterparts. If you’re watching carbohydrate intake more strictly, consider lettuce wraps as an alternative to traditional buns—butter lettuce or iceberg leaves create a crisp, refreshing wrapper that lets the Korean barbecue flavors shine. Another option is serving the chicken and toppings over a bed of mixed greens for a slider-inspired salad.

The sriracha mayo can be lightened by using a mixture that’s half light mayonnaise and half plain Greek yogurt. This maintains the creamy texture while reducing fat content and adding protein. Alternatively, a simple gochujang-spiked Greek yogurt sauce makes a probiotic-rich, lower-calorie option.

Increase the vegetable content by making a more substantial slaw with additional vegetables like julienned bell peppers, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced snow peas mixed with the cabbage. This not only adds nutritional value but also creates a more colorful, textural topping.

Adapting for Dietary Restrictions

These versatile Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders can be adapted for various dietary needs without losing their essential character.

For gluten-free diners, the main concern is the soy sauce and the buns. Replace traditional soy sauce with tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade. Gluten-free slider buns are increasingly available in stores, or you can use gluten-free dinner rolls cut in half. Always check your gochujang carefully, as some brands may contain wheat; seek out specifically labeled gluten-free versions.

Creating a dairy-free version is straightforward, as the recipe doesn’t include dairy in its original form. Just ensure any mayonnaise used for the sriracha mayo is dairy-free (most commercial brands are) and verify the buns don’t contain milk products.

For those following a low-carb or keto approach, the lettuce wrap substitution mentioned earlier works beautifully. Reduce or substitute the honey in the marinade with a keto-friendly sweetener like allulose or monk fruit sweetener, which maintain the caramelization properties needed for good grilling results.

A vegetarian adaptation requires substituting the chicken with a plant-based protein that can stand up to bold marinades and grilling. Extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into thick slabs, works wonderfully with Korean barbecue flavors. For a more meat-like option, tempeh absorbs marinade well and offers a satisfying chew. In both cases, increase the marinating time to allow deeper flavor penetration.

These adaptations ensure everyone at your gathering can enjoy the delicious Korean barbecue experience, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders with golden buns and visible website link
These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders are perfect for summer gatherings – save this pin for your next picnic!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I prepare components for these sliders?

The beauty of these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders is that nearly every component can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. The marinade can be mixed up to three days before use and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight (up to 24 hours).

The sriracha mayo keeps well in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container, and actually improves in flavor after the first day as the ingredients meld. The cabbage slaw base can be prepared a day ahead, but dress it no more than an hour before serving to maintain its crunch. If preparing further ahead, store the vegetables and dressing separately, combining them shortly before assembly.

The chicken can be grilled or cooked up to two days before serving and reheated gently before assembly. For the best texture when reheating, place the cooked chicken in a covered baking dish with a tablespoon of water or chicken broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through (about 15 minutes). Slice after reheating to preserve moisture.

Slider buns can be toasted a few hours before serving and kept at room temperature in a bread basket lined with a clean kitchen towel. For ultimate freshness, you might consider re-warming them briefly in a low oven just before assembly.

What’s the best way to adjust the spice level of these sliders?

These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders can easily be adjusted to suit different heat preferences while maintaining their essential Korean barbecue character.

For a milder version, reduce the amount of gochujang in the marinade to 2-3 tablespoons and ensure you’re using a lower heat rating variety (look for packages labeled with a 1 or 2 on the heat scale). You can maintain the flavor complexity by adding an extra tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of tomato paste to compensate for the reduced gochujang. In the sriracha mayo, either omit the sriracha entirely for a plain mayonnaise or substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of ketchup for a slightly sweet sauce that still complements the flavors.

To create a spicier version for heat enthusiasts, increase the gochujang to ½ cup and add a teaspoon of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) to the marinade. For an even more pronounced heat, add a finely minced Thai bird chili or half a jalapeño to the marinade. The sriracha mayo can be amplified by increasing the sriracha to 1-2 tablespoons or adding ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

A clever approach for serving guests with different spice preferences is to prepare the chicken with a moderate spice level, then offer condiments that allow individual heat customization. Serve extra sriracha mayo alongside a regular mayo option, and offer sliced fresh jalapeños or a small dish of gochujang for those who want to add more heat directly to their assembled sliders.

Can I make these sliders without a grill?

Absolutely! While grilling imparts a wonderful smoky char to these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders, several alternative cooking methods produce equally delicious results.

A cast-iron skillet or grill pan on the stovetop is perhaps the closest substitute for outdoor grilling. Heat the pan over medium-high heat, add a light coating of oil, and cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through. This method creates excellent caramelization and allows the chicken to cook in some of its own juices, often resulting in very tender meat.

Broiling offers another excellent option that mimics the direct heat of grilling. Place the marinated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and position it about 6 inches below your broiler. Broil for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning due to the sugar content in the marinade.

For a hands-off approach, particularly convenient when cooking for a crowd, try baking. Arrange the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through. While this method won’t create the same char as grilling or broiling, it reliably produces juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal attention required. For the best of both worlds, consider finishing baked chicken with a brief broil (1-2 minutes) to create some caramelization on the surface.

An air fryer can also work wonderfully for cooking the marinated chicken. Set to 380°F and cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through. The circulating hot air creates nice caramelization on the exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

With any cooking method, the most important factor is reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety while avoiding overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’ve fallen in love with these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders, you’ll likely enjoy these other delicious handheld creations that share similar flavor profiles or preparation techniques:

Cheesy Chicken Caesar Wraps offer another delicious way to enjoy marinated chicken in a convenient handheld format. The creamy Caesar dressing provides a similar rich, tangy element that complements chicken beautifully, just as the sriracha mayo does in our Korean BBQ sliders. These wraps make an excellent lunch option when you’re craving those slider flavors but want something slightly different.

For those who appreciate the sweet-spicy glaze of Korean BBQ, these Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Bites deliver a similar flavor sensation in bite-sized form. The honey-garlic sauce creates that perfect sticky-sweet coating that’s reminiscent of our slider marinade, making these an excellent appetizer option for gatherings where you might not want to serve full sandwiches.

If you enjoy the handheld format of sliders but want to explore different flavor profiles, these Gooey Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Burger Melts offer a delicious alternative. They maintain the fun, casual eating experience of sliders while introducing new flavors and the exciting surprise of melted cheese centers. The turkey provides a leaner protein option while still delivering big on satisfaction.

Each of these recipes shares something in common with our Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders—whether it’s the convenient handheld format, the sweet-savory-spicy flavor balance, or the use of marinated poultry as the protein star. Try them all to expand your repertoire of crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for casual entertaining!

Conclusion: Why These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders Will Become Your Go-To Summer Recipe

As summer gatherings fill your calendar, having a reliable yet impressive recipe in your arsenal is invaluable. These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders have earned their place as that go-to recipe for several compelling reasons.

Their irresistible flavor profile—the perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy—ensures they appeal to a wide range of palates while still offering something more exciting than standard cookout fare. The Korean-inspired flavors provide just enough adventure to intrigue your guests without alienating less adventurous eaters.

The make-ahead friendly nature of these sliders is perhaps their greatest practical advantage for entertaining. With nearly every component preparable in advance, you can enjoy your own gathering instead of being trapped in the kitchen. The assembly process can even become part of the entertainment, with a slider bar allowing guests to customize their own creations.

These sliders also strike that elusive balance between casual and sophisticated. They’re perfectly appropriate for a relaxed backyard barbecue but impressive enough for more special occasions. The individual portions make them ideal for everything from family dinners to graduation parties, baby showers, or game day gatherings.

Finally, their adaptability ensures they can become a reliable favorite regardless of seasonal ingredient availability or dietary preferences among your guests. The basic template accommodates numerous variations and substitutions while maintaining its essential character.

So as you plan your next summer gathering, put these Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders at the top of your menu. Their crowd-pleasing flavors, make-ahead convenience, and impressive presentation make them the perfect choice for creating memorable food experiences all season long.

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Closeup of glazed Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders with sticky sauce on toasted buns

Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders: Perfect for Summer Picnics


  • Author: Chef Crenn
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sliders (serves 4-6 people) 1x

Description

These Tangy Korean BBQ Chicken Sliders deliver an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in one perfect bite-sized package! The gochujang-marinated chicken thighs are grilled until caramelized, then tucked into soft slider buns with creamy sriracha mayo and crunchy cabbage slaw. Perfect for summer picnics, backyard BBQs, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort!


Ingredients

Scale
  • lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if you prefer)
  • ⅓ cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp honey
  • 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 12 slider buns (potato rolls work great!)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage slaw (coleslaw mix or homemade)
  • 2 Tbsp chopped scallions (green onions)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • ½ cup mayonnaise

 

  • 12 tsp Sriracha (to taste)

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth to create your marinade.
  • Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
  • Prepare the sriracha mayo by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high (375–400°F) or heat a heavy skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
  • Remove chicken from the marinade, reserving excess sauce. Grill or sear for 6–7 minutes per side, until caramelized and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • During the last minute of cooking, brush with a bit of the reserved sauce for extra flavor.
  • Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  • Lightly butter the insides of your slider rolls and toast them cut-side down on the grill or skillet for 1–2 minutes, until golden.
  • Spread sriracha mayo on both top and bottom buns.
  • Pile sliced Korean BBQ chicken onto the bottom buns.
  • Top with a handful of shredded cabbage slaw and a sprinkle of chopped scallions.
  • Finish with a dusting of toasted sesame seeds and place the top buns.

 

  • Serve immediately while still warm, or at room temperature for picnics.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Marinade can be mixed and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. Chicken can be marinated overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Slaw Shortcut: Use store-bought coleslaw mix dressed lightly with rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and sesame oil.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang in the marinade and sriracha in the mayo to control heat level.
  • Alternative Cooking: If you don’t have a grill, a heavy cast-iron skillet works beautifully for these sliders.

 

  • For a more substantial slaw, mix the cabbage with 1 Tbsp rice vinegar, ½ tsp sugar, and ½ tsp sesame oil before topping the sliders.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Appetizer
  • Method: Grill, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Korean-inspired, Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 sliders
  • Calories: 425
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Korean BBQ sliders, gochujang chicken sliders, Korean chicken sandwiches, Asian fusion sliders, summer picnic food, Korean BBQ recipe, gochujang marinade, party sliders, Korean chicken recipe, mini sandwiches

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