Flavorful Korean BBQ Turkey Tacos Recipe with Kimchi Slaw

The smoky aroma of Korean BBQ turkey sizzling on the stovetop paired with the tangy crunch of homemade kimchi slaw—it’s the kind of meal that makes your taste buds dance. These tacos are the perfect fusion of bold Korean flavors and the simplicity of a handheld favorite. I first whipped these up for a casual dinner with friends, and they’ve been a hit ever since. Packed with protein, spice, and a touch of sweetness, they’re not just delicious—they’re downright addictive.

If you’re looking to shake up your taco game, this recipe is for you. It’s a fun twist on the classic taco that’s healthier and bursting with flavor. With every bite, you’ll get the rich, savory taste of Korean BBQ turkey, balanced by the refreshing zing of kimchi slaw. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something new on a weeknight, Korean BBQ turkey tacos are a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce paired with spicy kimchi creates an unbeatable flavor combo.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Taco Option: Using lean ground turkey keeps it lighter without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: You can mix and match toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
• Impressive Yet Simple: It’s a unique dish that’s easy to make but feels fancy enough to serve to guests.

What sets these tacos apart is the combination of textures and flavors. The rich, caramelized turkey is perfectly complemented by the crunchy, tangy slaw. Plus, the recipe is super versatile—serve it as a taco, a lettuce wrap, or even a rice bowl. It’s comfort food reimagined, with a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on taste.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.

• Ground turkey: Choose lean turkey for a healthier option.
• Korean BBQ sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own for extra authenticity.
• Garlic: Finely minced for a burst of flavor.
• Ginger: Freshly grated for a warm, aromatic kick.
• Soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the turkey marinade.
• Sesame oil: For that nutty, toasty flavor.
• Kimchi: A tangy and slightly spicy fermented cabbage that’s the star of the slaw.
• Mayonnaise: To help bind the slaw and add creaminess.
• Sriracha: Brings heat to the slaw—adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Rice vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity to the slaw.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced for garnish and flavor.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds freshness and color.
• Flour tortillas: Soft tortillas are the perfect base for these tacos.
• Optional toppings: Sliced jalapeños, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.

You can easily substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey, and if you have dietary restrictions, opt for gluten-free soy sauce and tortillas.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet: For cooking the turkey evenly.
• Mixing bowls: To prepare the kimchi slaw and BBQ sauce.
• Grater: For fresh ginger.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic, green onions, and cilantro.
• Spatula: Helps stir and break up the turkey while cooking.
• Tongs: Handy for assembling the tacos.

If you don’t have a skillet, a non-stick frying pan works just fine. And for grating ginger quickly, a microplane is a game-changer!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the BBQ sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp sesame oil, 2 tbsp Korean BBQ sauce, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Set aside.
2. Cook the turkey: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp sesame oil. Once hot, add the ground turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned.
3. Combine the sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the turkey and stir to coat evenly. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Remove from heat.
4. Make the kimchi slaw: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup chopped kimchi, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar. Mix well and set aside.
5. Warm the tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas on a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side or until soft and pliable.
6. Assemble the tacos: Add a generous scoop of the Korean BBQ turkey to each tortilla. Top with kimchi slaw, sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and any optional toppings like jalapeños or sesame seeds.

Serve immediately and enjoy these flavorful tacos while they’re warm!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t skip the fresh ginger: It’s the secret to achieving that authentic Korean BBQ flavor.
• Use high heat: Cooking the turkey on high heat gives it a nice caramelization and locks in the flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce the sriracha in the slaw or use a milder BBQ sauce.
• Toast your tortillas: Heating the tortillas makes them more pliable and adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• Prep ahead: Make the BBQ turkey and slaw in advance for a quick weeknight meal. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the tacos when ready.

Pro tip: If your turkey looks a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water while cooking to keep it moist.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian option: Swap the turkey for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit, and use a vegetarian BBQ sauce.
• Low-carb option: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas to cut down on carbs but keep all the flavor.
• Seasonal twist: Add sliced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a summer vibe.
• Spice it up: Increase the amount of sriracha in the slaw and add extra jalapeños for a fiery kick.
• Family-friendly: Serve the kimchi slaw on the side for those who prefer milder flavors.

One of my favorite variations is adding a soft-boiled egg on top for an extra layer of richness. It’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Korean BBQ turkey tacos are best served warm and fresh. Plate them on a large platter for a family-style meal or serve them individually for a more intimate presentation. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce makes for a picture-perfect finish.

If you have leftovers, store the turkey and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the turkey in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. The slaw can be eaten cold straight out of the fridge for maximum freshness.

These tacos make a great lunch the next day—just warm up the turkey and tortillas, and assemble when you’re ready to eat!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s why these tacos are not just tasty but also good for you:

• High in protein: Thanks to lean ground turkey, these tacos are great for staying full and energized.
• Gut health benefits: Kimchi is loaded with probiotics that support digestion.
• Low in fat: Using turkey and light mayo makes this a healthier choice compared to traditional beef tacos.
• Customizable for diets: Easy to make gluten-free or dairy-free for dietary needs.
• Rich in vitamins: Ingredients like kimchi, cilantro, and green onions are packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

With under 300 calories per taco (depending on your portions), this recipe is a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

Conclusion

If you’re craving something bold, flavorful, and fun to make, these Korean BBQ turkey tacos with tangy kimchi slaw are a must-try. They’re versatile, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to impress anyone you serve them to. I love how they turn an ordinary taco night into something unforgettable.

Give this recipe a go and make it your own. Add your favorite toppings, play around with spice levels, or try one of the variations above. I’d love to hear how you made these tacos yours—drop a comment below or snap a picture to share your creation!

So what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the perfect fusion of flavors. These Korean BBQ turkey tacos are about to be your new favorite dinner!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well in this recipe and offers similar nutrition benefits.

Can I make the kimchi slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas and use a gluten-free soy sauce and BBQ sauce.

What’s the best way to reheat the turkey?

Reheat the turkey in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Can I make these tacos less spicy?

Of course! Reduce or omit the sriracha in the slaw and use a milder BBQ sauce for a less spicy version.

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