Korean BBQ Chicken Leftover Magic: 8 Min Meal

Jump to Recipe

Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover has become my go-to for a lightning-fast, incredibly flavorful dinner. I’ll never forget the first time I tried to whip up a quick meal after a long day, and I remembered a little bit of rotisserie chicken in the fridge. A quick online search for Korean BBQ chicken reheating methods led me to this magical recipe. Now, the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy aroma of that caramelized chicken bubbling under the broiler fills my kitchen at least twice a month. It’s amazing how just a few minutes can transform simple leftovers into something truly special. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Korean BBQ Chicken Leftover

This recipe is a weeknight game-changer! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

Incredibly Fast: You can whip up this delicious meal in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet, savory, and slightly spicy Korean BBQ sauce creates an irresistible caramelized char.
Uses Leftovers Wisely: Transforms plain rotisserie chicken into a restaurant-quality dish.
Healthy & High-Protein: It’s a fantastic way to get a satisfying, high-protein meal with a low-calorie count.
Versatile Serving: This dish is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to create new meals from your Korean BBQ chicken leftovers.
Minimal Cleanup: Using a sheet pan means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.
Customizable Spice: Easily adjust the heat level to your preference.
Perfect for Lunches: Leftovers are fantastic for packing a flavorful lunch the next day.

Ingredients for Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

Here’s what you need to transform your rotisserie chicken into a flavorful Korean BBQ masterpiece:

1 pound Rotisserie Chicken, pulled or chopped – Using pre-cooked chicken makes this recipe incredibly fast. Dark meat stays extra moist!
3/4 cup Korean BBQ Sauce – This is the star of the show, bringing that signature sweet, savory, and slightly spicy kick. You can substitute teriyaki or a lower-sugar version if you prefer.
For Serving: Half Calorie Rice – A lighter base to complement the rich chicken.
For Serving: Cucumber Kimchi – Adds a refreshing crunch and tang.
For Serving: Creamy Kimchi Sauce – Simply mix gochujang with light mayo for a cool, spicy drizzle.
For Serving: Pickled Carrots – For a touch of sweetness and acidity.
For Garnishing: Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
For Garnishing: Scallions (chopped) – For a fresh, oniony bite.

How to Make Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

Transforming your leftover chicken into a delicious Korean BBQ feast is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!

Step 1: First things first, crank up your oven! Preheat your broiler to high and position the oven rack in the center. This high heat is key to getting that perfect caramelized char on your chicken.
Step 2: Grab a large bowl and add your pulled or chopped rotisserie chicken. Pour the 3/4 cup of Korean BBQ sauce over the chicken. Toss everything together gently until the chicken is completely and evenly coated. You want every piece to have that sticky, delicious sauce.
Step 3: Get a quarter sheet pan or an oven-safe skillet ready. Spread the sauced chicken mixture out in a single layer. This ensures that each piece of chicken gets exposed to the broiler’s heat for optimal crispiness.
Step 4: Carefully place the pan under the broiler. Let it cook for about 8 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as broilers can be intense! You’re looking for the edges of the chicken to get nice and crispy, and the sauce to bubble and caramelize beautifully. The smell will be incredible! This is where the magic happens for your Korean BBQ chicken leftover.
Step 5: While the chicken is broiling, prepare your serving base. Spoon your half calorie rice into bowls. This light and fluffy rice is the perfect canvas for the rich, savory chicken.
Step 6: Once the chicken is perfectly caramelized and slightly crispy, carefully remove it from the oven. It should look glossy and irresistible.
Step 7: Spoon the hot, saucy chicken over the rice. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped scallions for a pop of color and nutty flavor.
Step 8: Serve your amazing Korean BBQ chicken leftover meal immediately with cucumber kimchi and creamy kimchi sauce on the side. The cool, tangy kimchi provides a wonderful contrast to the warm, sweet, and savory chicken. Enjoy every bite of this quick Korean BBQ chicken leftover meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

Want to elevate your leftover game? These tips will ensure your Korean BBQ chicken is always a hit:

Use dark meat: If your rotisserie chicken has dark meat, use that! It stays incredibly moist and flavorful even after reheating.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: When broiling, spread the chicken in a single layer so it can caramelize properly rather than steam.
Watch the broiler closely: Broilers work fast! A few extra seconds can turn perfectly caramelized chicken into burnt bits. Stay vigilant!
Taste and adjust: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Taste the sauce before broiling and add a pinch of sugar or a dash of sriracha if needed.

What’s the secret to perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Leftover?

The secret is the high-heat broil! It mimics the char you’d get from grilling and caramelizes the Korean BBQ sauce beautifully, giving your leftover chicken that irresistible sweet and savory flavor. For more tips on achieving perfect char, check out this guide on how to use your broiler.

Can I make Korean BBQ Chicken Leftover ahead of time?

Yes! You can absolutely prepare the sauced chicken mixture up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and broil just before serving for the freshest taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean BBQ Chicken Leftover?

The biggest mistake is overcooking, which dries out the chicken. Always watch the broiler carefully, and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even caramelization for your Korean BBQ chicken leftover.

Best Ways to Serve Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

This flavorful Korean BBQ chicken leftover is so versatile, you’ll want to make extra just to create new meals! My favorite way to serve it is over a bed of fluffy half-calorie rice, allowing the savory sauce to soak in beautifully. For a complete meal, I love pairing it with quick-pickled carrots and a side of crisp cucumber kimchi to add a refreshing tang. If you’re looking for another fantastic option, consider transforming your Korean BBQ chicken leftover into a vibrant noodle bowl. Toss it with some cooked ramen or udon noodles, add some steamed broccoli or snap peas, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch or dinner in minutes!

Nutrition Facts for Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

This recipe is designed to be a lighter take on classic Korean BBQ. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

Calories: 205 kcal
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Protein: 29 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 500 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific Korean BBQ sauce and rotisserie chicken used.

How to Store and Reheat Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

Don’t let those delicious Korean BBQ chicken leftovers go to waste! Proper storage is key to enjoying them later. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your Korean BBQ chicken leftover will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Place the cooled chicken in a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For the best results and to achieve that slightly crispy texture again, I recommend reheating Korean BBQ chicken in the oven. Place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps preserve the moisture and flavor. If you’re in a real hurry, microwaving is an option, but be sure to do it in short bursts and stir to avoid uneven heating. This ensures your reheating Korean BBQ chicken is just as tasty as when it was freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover

What’s the best way to reheat Korean BBQ chicken?

The absolute best way to reheat Korean BBQ chicken is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet. This method helps retain crispiness and prevents the chicken from drying out, ensuring your Korean BBQ chicken leftover tastes almost as good as the first time.

How long can I store Korean BBQ chicken leftovers?

You can safely store your Korean BBQ chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure it has cooled down before sealing it up. This helps maintain the quality and flavor of your Korean BBQ chicken leftover meal.

Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

While this recipe is designed for rotisserie chicken, you can certainly use other cooked chicken. If you have plain cooked chicken breasts or thighs, just make sure they are chopped or shredded. For the absolute best results and moisture, consider using dark meat from your rotisserie chicken. This ensures a fantastic Korean BBQ chicken leftover experience.

My Korean BBQ chicken leftover is a bit dry, what did I do wrong?

Don’t worry if your chicken is a little dry! This often happens with lean chicken breast. Using dark meat if available, or ensuring you don’t overcook it during the broiling stage, helps prevent dryness. When reheating, a brief stint in the oven with a touch of extra sauce can bring it back to life.

Variations of Korean Bbq Chicken Leftover You Can Try

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your leftover Korean BBQ chicken! This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add a tablespoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the Korean BBQ sauce before tossing with the chicken. This amplifies the flavor for a truly fiery Korean BBQ chicken leftover experience.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit or pan-fried tempeh. Toss these with the sauce and broil as directed for a plant-based version of this quick Korean BBQ chicken leftover meal.
Stir-Fry Sensation: Instead of broiling, add the sauced chicken to a hot skillet with some stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli. This creates a quick and colorful stir-fry that uses your Korean BBQ chicken leftover in a whole new way.
Quesadilla Delight: Chop the broiled chicken into smaller pieces and use it as a filling for quesadillas. Add cheese and your favorite salsa for a creative and satisfying lunch or appetizer.