How to Make Kimchi Chicken Focaccia (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kimchi Chicken Focaccia is a bold, fusion creation inspired by Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture and love for reinventing classics. In Singapore, kopitiam food stalls are known for their creativity, blending local flavors with influences from all over Asia. This dish celebrates that spirit, combining the tangy, spicy crunch of kimchi with succulent grilled chicken, all layered atop fluffy focaccia bread—a nod to the city’s embrace of global and regional tastes. The focaccia is topped with fresh local greens and a touch of sesame for an added nutty fragrance, making it a wholesome lunch that is light yet satisfying. Perfect for the health-conscious, this Kimchi Chicken Focaccia is lower in calories and fats while delivering protein and dietary fiber—an ideal midday meal for busy Singaporeans. The combination of flavors is distinctly Singaporean: fiery yet balanced, familiar yet new. Whether enjoyed in a bustling CBD kopitiam or at home, this dish reflects Singapore’s food culture—dynamic, multicultural, and utterly delicious. It’s a testament to how local chefs and home cooks continually reimagine comfort food for the modern palate.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the chicken by marinating the slices with a pinch of salt
Prepare the chicken by marinating the slices with a pinch of salt, minced garlic, and half the olive oil. Let sit for 5 minutes.
Step 2 · Grill the marinated chicken on a non-stick pan over medium heat for...
Grill the marinated chicken on a non-stick pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Set aside to rest.
Step 3 · Lightly toast the focaccia squares in the oven or on a dry pan unti...
Lightly toast the focaccia squares in the oven or on a dry pan until warm and slightly crisp.
Step 4 · Mix chopped kimchi with Greek yogurt to form a tangy
Mix chopped kimchi with Greek yogurt to form a tangy, spicy spread.
Step 5 · Assemble the sandwich: Spread kimchi-yogurt mixture on one side of ...
Assemble the sandwich: Spread kimchi-yogurt mixture on one side of each focaccia square. Layer with baby spinach, grilled chicken, spring onion, and coriander.
Step 6 · Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and cover with the other focac...
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and cover with the other focaccia half. Slice and serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
By opting for wholegrain focaccia and lean chicken breast, this dish is lower in saturated fats and refined carbs compared to traditional sandwich options. Kimchi and Greek yogurt add probiotics and calcium, supporting digestive and bone health. Minimal oil use and plenty of fresh greens make it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters, fitting perfectly into a balanced Singaporean diet. It also delivers a satisfying crunch and robust flavor without excess calories.
A note on tradition
Singapore’s kopitiam culture is all about affordable, delicious meals with bold flavors. Fusion creations like Kimchi Chicken Focaccia are popular in modern cafes and artisan bakeries, drawing inspiration from local and international influences. Such dishes are commonly enjoyed by young professionals and students during lunch breaks, reflecting Singapore’s openness to culinary experimentation, especially in central and east-side neighborhoods.