Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 2 tablespoons kimchi (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon softened butter
• 2 slices white bread
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 slices Havarti cheese

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the shredded chicken, kimchi, and mayonnaise. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Preheat a small skillet over medium heat.
3. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of softened butter on one side of a slice of bread. Place the slice of bread, butter-side-down, into the skillet.
4. Top the bread in the skillet with one slice of provolone cheese and one slice of Havarti cheese.
5. Add the chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
6. Place the remaining slices of provolone and Havarti cheese on top of the chicken mixture.
7. Butter the second slice of bread with the remaining butter on one side. Place the buttered side facing up on top of the sandwich, pressing it gently.
8. Cook the sandwich in the skillet, flipping it when the bread is lightly browned, about 2 minutes per side.
9. Once both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted, remove from the skillet and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 810
• Total Fat: 59g (76% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 24g (118% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 152mg (51% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1119mg (49% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 33g (12% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 36g (72% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 515mg (40% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (23% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 331mg (7% Daily Value)

History and Origin

The Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich is a modern fusion dish that combines elements from both Korean and Western culinary traditions. The sandwich draws inspiration from the Korean dish kimchi, a staple fermented vegetable dish that is often made from napa cabbage and radishes, flavored with chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and a variety of other spices. This particular sandwich combines the bold, spicy flavors of kimchi with shredded chicken and melted cheese for a comforting yet adventurous meal. While kimchi itself has been a core part of Korean cuisine for over 2,000 years, the creation of the Kimchi Chicken Melt is a relatively recent innovation, reflecting the increasing popularity of fusion foods that blend traditional Asian ingredients with Western formats like sandwiches and burgers.

Regional Features and Variations

Kimchi is traditionally a Korean dish, and in Korea, it is often served as a side dish with almost every meal, particularly with rice. However, this sandwich represents a shift from the traditional use of kimchi as a side to incorporating it as a main ingredient in a Western-style meal. The addition of cheese, particularly creamy Havarti and provolone, is an uncommon pairing in Korean cuisine but works beautifully in this sandwich, creating a melty, gooey texture that contrasts nicely with the crunchy, spicy kimchi. In some variations of the sandwich, you might also see ingredients like pickled vegetables, gochujang (Korean chili paste), or even a fried egg added for extra flavor and richness.

Difference from Similar Dishes

While there are many sandwich varieties that feature melted cheese and chicken, the Kimchi Chicken Melt stands out due to its incorporation of kimchi, which gives the sandwich an unmistakable, bold flavor profile. Unlike classic chicken melts, which typically use bland condiments like mayonnaise or mustard, the kimchi adds heat and acidity. The use of both provolone and Havarti cheeses also differentiates it from more common cheese choices like cheddar or mozzarella, offering a richer, creamier texture. Compared to a typical grilled cheese or chicken melt, the Kimchi Chicken Melt is far more vibrant, with a deeper complexity of flavors thanks to the fermenting process of the kimchi.

Where It's Typically Served

The Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich is most often served in casual dining restaurants, fusion eateries, or food trucks that specialize in combining Korean flavors with American classics. It's a popular option in cities with diverse food cultures, such as Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco, where Korean-American fusion cuisine is booming. While you can certainly prepare this dish at home, it's the kind of comfort food that thrives in a laid-back dining atmosphere, paired with crispy fries or a side of kimchi pickles for added zing.

Interesting Facts

Kimchi is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. The fermentation process makes it rich in probiotics, which can support digestion and boost the immune system. Additionally, kimchi contains a variety of vitamins, including vitamin C, which is a rare nutrient found in many fermented foods. Interestingly, the idea of combining kimchi with Western dishes like sandwiches, tacos, or burgers has gained traction in recent years, as chefs continue to explore how the bold flavors of Korean cuisine can be seamlessly incorporated into other culinary traditions. The Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich, in particular, is a perfect example of how global ingredients can be used creatively to bring something new to the table.

FAQ about Kimchi Chicken Melt Sandwich Recipe