There’s something undeniably satisfying about the crunch of golden-brown bread giving way to a melty, cheesy center, especially when that center is infused with the bold flavors of kimchi. I discovered this Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich on a quiet afternoon when the last remnants of takeout left me uninspired. As I rummaged through my fridge, a forgotten container of shredded chicken caught my eye, and next to it, a spicy jar of kimchi had been waiting for its moment to shine.
As I combined the ingredients, I realized I was about to create a dish that would transform those mundane pantry staples into a mouthwatering masterpiece. This sandwich perfectly balances comforting melted cheese with the zesty kick of kimchi, making it a go-to recipe not just for busy weeknights but also when you want to impress at casual gatherings. Trust me, once you try this delightfully simple yet flavorful creation, fast food will be a thing of the past. Ready to take your taste buds on an adventure? Let’s dive in!
Why is this Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich irresistible?
Bold flavors: The unique combination of kimchi and shredded chicken offers a taste adventure that will excite your palate.
Melty goodness: With provolone and havarti cheeses, each bite delivers a rich, gooey texture that comforts the soul.
Quick and easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only minutes from prep to plated.
Versatile option: You can easily adapt the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, making it a fantastic clean-out-the-pantry meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this at gatherings, and watch it impress everyone—making fast food seem bland in comparison.
Homemade delight: Elevate your lunch game with this satisfying, homemade sandwich that’s far healthier than takeout options.
Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich Ingredients
Whether you’re flexing your culinary muscles or simply craving something delicious, these ingredients will make your mouth water!
For the Filling
- Shredded cooked chicken – This protein-rich base brings heartiness to your Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich.
- Kimchi – The spicy, fermented kick adds an exciting zing that elevates the sandwich to another level.
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and binds the filling together, ensuring each bite is delightful.
For the Grill
- Softened butter – Spreading this on the bread ensures a beautifully golden crust that contrasts with the melty center.
- White bread – A classic pairing that allows the bold flavors to shine while providing a soft, comforting base.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Provolone cheese – This mild cheese melts beautifully and adds a touch of richness to each bite.
- Havarti cheese – Creamy and buttery, it complements the provolone and adds extra layers of flavor.
How to Make Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich
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Combine: In a small bowl, gently mix the shredded cooked chicken with the kimchi and mayonnaise until well combined. The flavors will meld together and create a zesty filling that packs a punch!
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Preheat: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter on one side of a slice of white bread for that perfect golden crust.
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Layer: Place the slice of bread butter-side-down in the skillet, then add 1 slice of provolone and 1 slice of havarti cheese on top. This cheesy foundation sets the stage for the delicious layers to come.
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Top: Spoon the chicken mixture over the cheeses, ensuring an even spread. Top with the remaining slice of provolone and havarti cheese, creating a gooey center that will melt beautifully.
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Finish: Butter the second slice of bread on one side with the remaining butter and place it butter-side-up on top to form a sandwich. This will create a crispy outer layer.
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Cook: Grill the sandwich in the skillet until the bread is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip it over and cook for another 2 ½ minutes until both sides are golden and the cheese is deliciously melty.
Optional: Slice the sandwich diagonally for a charming presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Kimchi Chicken Melt Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this sandwich to fit your cravings!
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Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra zing. The heat complements the kimchi beautifully and adds a thrilling element to each bite.
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Healthier Swap: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to boost protein while maintaining creaminess. You’ll get a tangy twist that packs a nutritious punch!
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Vegan Version: Use shredded jackfruit instead of chicken and vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based delight. This variation offers similar textures without sacrificing flavor.
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Cheese Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack. These choices can bring a new depth of flavor and a touch of spice to your sandwich!
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Bread Choice: Swap out white bread for whole grain or sourdough to enhance the sandwich’s flavor profile and provide an extra bite. The options are endless!
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Crunchy Elements: Add a handful of shredded carrots or cucumbers to the chicken filling for a refreshing crunch. This adds texture and balances out the creaminess beautifully.
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Herb-infused: Mix some chopped green onions or cilantro into the chicken filling for a burst of freshness. This herbaceous twist invigorates the flavors and brightens the overall dish.
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Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas instead of bread. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors while keeping it lighter if you’re watching carbs!
Make Ahead Options
These Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the shredded chicken, kimchi, and mayonnaise up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The filling will actually benefit from resting, as the flavors meld beautifully. You can also reserve the buttered bread slices and cheese separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer your filling between the cheese and bread, and follow the grilling instructions. This way, you’ll have a satisfying, ready-to-go meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich
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Choose the Right Bread: Use a sturdy bread that can withstand the filling without falling apart. Sourdough or whole grain can add more flavor!
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Heat Control: Keep the skillet at medium heat; too high and the bread will burn before the cheese melts. Take it slow for a perfect bite.
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Cheese Melting: Try adding a lid over the skillet while cooking to help the cheese melt evenly and create that gooey goodness in your Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich.
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or a different protein and experiment with your favorite spicy condiments to suit your taste.
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Avoid sogginess: Ensure the chicken is well-drained and not overly moist; this will help keep your sandwich from becoming soggy while grilling.
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Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of scallions or a drizzle of Sriracha can elevate your Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich, adding a fresh touch and extra spice!
How to Store and Freeze Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich fresh for the best flavor and texture. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftover sandwich wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: To freeze, wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for a quick meal later.
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Reheating: For the best results, reheat your sandwich from the fridge in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What to Serve with Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich?
Create a well-rounded feast that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries beautifully contrasts the bold flavors of the sandwich, providing a delightful crunch in every bite.
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Tangy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a cool, creamy element that complements the spiciness of the kimchi, making each mouthful more balanced and enjoyable.
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Pickled Vegetables: A mix of quick-pickled carrots and radishes adds a tangy kick, enhancing the overall experience with crunch and zing. You’ll love the way the vibrant colors brighten your plate!
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Fresh Garden Salad: Toss together crisp greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side that cleanses the palate, ensuring every bite of your sandwich remains a flavorful adventure.
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Miso Soup: A warm, savory bowl of miso soup offers a cozy balance to your meal, bridging the comforting elements of bread and melted cheese with umami-rich flavors.
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Iced Green Tea: This refreshing drink provides a subtle, earthy taste that perfectly pairs with the sandwich’s spiciness, making it a delightful companion that also hydrates without overwhelming the flavors.
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Sliced Fruit Platter: Finish off the meal with a selection of sweet, juicy fruits like melon and berries. Their natural sweetness offers a refreshing end to a hearty sandwich, making for a delightful meal experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A warm cookie with melty chocolate is the perfect sweet treat to indulge in after your savory sandwich, creating a wonderful finale to your meal.
Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What kind of shredded chicken should I use?
Absolutely, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand! Rotisserie chicken works great, or even leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s seasoned to your liking, as this adds extra flavor to your Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Wrap any leftover sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you have extra filling, store it separately, and try to assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Can I freeze the Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a skillet to ensure the bread stays crispy and the cheese melts perfectly.
What should I do if the bread burns before the cheese melts?
If you find your bread is browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat on the stove. Cooking on medium-low allows the cheese to melt evenly without the bread burning. Additionally, you can cover the skillet with a lid while cooking. This method traps heat and helps the cheese melt more thoroughly while protecting the bread’s crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Swap out the white bread for your favorite gluten-free bread variety. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart, and it will create a delicious gluten-free version of the Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich that everyone will enjoy.
Is this sandwich suitable for kids or those with dietary restrictions?
If you’re catering to younger palates or specific dietary needs, you can modify the recipe! For kids, you might want to reduce the amount of kimchi to tone down the spiciness. For dietary restrictions, substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free version and choose cheeses that fit the dietary requirements. The sandwich remains delicious while being considerate of others’ needs!
Delicious Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, gently mix the shredded cooked chicken with the kimchi and mayonnaise until well combined.
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Spread ½ tablespoon of softened butter on one side of a slice of white bread.
- Place the slice of bread butter-side-down in the skillet, then add 1 slice of provolone and 1 slice of havarti cheese on top.
- Spoon the chicken mixture over the cheeses, ensuring an even spread.
- Top with the remaining slice of provolone and havarti cheese.
- Butter the second slice of bread on one side with the remaining butter and place it butter-side-up on top.
- Grill the sandwich in the skillet until the bread is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Carefully flip it over and cook for another 2 ½ minutes.