Save The first time I made gochujang mayo was actually an accident. I was trying to make a quick dipping sauce for some leftover chicken nuggets, grabbed what I thought was Sriracha from the fridge, and ended up with a tub of gochujang instead. That happy mistake completely changed how I think about grilled cheese sandwiches forever.
I made these for my brother when he was recovering from dental surgery and couldnt eat anything too crunchy. He loved them so much he requested them for his birthday dinner the next month. Now theyve become our go-to Friday night comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast (200 g): Cutting this into thin strips helps it cook faster and absorb more of that spicy sauce
- 2 tbsp gochujang: This Korean chili paste brings sweet heat and deep umami you cant get from Sriracha
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise: Real mayo works best here and creates that creamy base that tames the heat
- 1 tsp soy sauce: Adds saltiness and depth without making the sauce too thin
- 1 tsp honey: Balances the chili heat just enough to let the other flavors shine through
- 1 tsp rice vinegar: A little acid cuts through all that rich cheese and mayo
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Sprinkled directly into the sauce so every bite gets that aromatic kick
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked adds a nice aromatic warmth
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: High smoke point means you can get the chicken properly golden without burning
- 4 slices sourdough or country bread: Sturdy enough to hold everything together without getting soggy
- 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese: This mild melty cheese is the perfect backdrop for the spicy chicken
- 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a punchy contrast to the mild mozzarella
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened: Spread it evenly for that perfect golden crunch
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions: Fresh oniony brightness that cuts through the richness
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumber (optional): Adds a cool crisp contrast if you want extra texture
Instructions
- Whisk up your spicy sauce:
- Combine gochujang mayo soy sauce honey rice vinegar garlic powder and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and creamy
- Cook the chicken:
- Slice the chicken into thin strips and cook in hot oil for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and fully cooked through
- Coat the chicken:
- Remove the pan from heat toss the hot chicken in your spicy mayo until every piece is evenly coated
- Build your sandwiches:
- Butter one side of each bread slice then layer mozzarella coated chicken scallions cucumber if using cheddar and another bread slice buttered side out
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook sandwiches in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side pressing gently until golden and melty
- Rest and serve:
- Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing so the cheese sets up slightly
Save These sandwiches have become a staple at our game nights. Something about that combination of spicy cheesy and crispy just makes people gather around the kitchen counter and linger longer than usual.
Choosing Your Bread
Sourdough gives you that tangy chew and sturdy structure that holds up to all those fillings. Country bread works beautifully too with its airy crumb and thick crust. Just avoid super soft sandwich bread because it will turn to mush under all that sauce and cheese.
Cheese Strategy
The mozzarella or provolone provides that classic cheese pull while the sharp cheddar cuts through with bold flavor. This two cheese approach keeps every bite interesting instead of one note melty. Provolone adds a slight smokiness that pairs especially well with gochujang.
Make It Your Own
Rotisserie chicken works in a pinch and shaves off precious minutes on busy weeknights. The sauce itself is fantastic on burgers fries or as a dip for sweet potato fries.
- Add kimchi inside the sandwich for extra funk and probiotics
- Swap in jalapeños if you want more heat
- Try Monterey Jack if you want something milder than cheddar
Save Theres something about biting into one of these sandwiches the crunch the heat the way the cheese stretches that just makes everything else fade away for a minute.
Kitchen Guide
- → What is gochujang mayo?
A creamy sauce made by mixing Korean chili paste (gochujang) with mayonnaise and seasonings, offering a spicy and tangy flavor.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar can be swapped or combined for varied melt and taste profiles.
- → How do I achieve a crispy sandwich?
Butter the outer sides of the bread and grill over medium heat, pressing gently until golden brown and cheese melts.
- → Is there a shortcut for cooking the chicken?
Rotisserie chicken can replace freshly cooked chicken strips for a quicker assembly.
- → Which sides complement this sandwich?
Kimchi or a fresh green salad pairs well, balancing the bold and spicy flavors.