BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail with Crunchy Vietnamese Coleslaw

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s a thrill that comes from gathering around the grill, especially when the aroma of BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail wafts through the air. I first discovered this delightful dish during a lovely summer barbecue with friends, and since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender, juicy quail, perfectly marinated in savory Hoi Sin sauce, paired with a refreshing Vietnamese coleslaw, creates a meal that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

Imagine the vibrant colors of the crisp cabbage and bright bell peppers dancing on your plate, beckoning you to take that first bite. Whether you re planning a weekend cookout or simply crave something special for a cozy dinner at home, this dish promises to impress. It s quick, flavorful, and transforms the humble quail into an elegant culinary experience. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this irresistible blend of flavors!

Why BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail?

Bold Flavors: The BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail is a true flavor explosion. Each bite is infused with the rich, sweet-savory notes of Hoi Sin sauce that perfectly complements the tender quail.

Dynamic Crunch: Paired with Vietnamese coleslaw, this dish achieves an exciting textural contrast. The crisp cabbage, colorful bell peppers, and vibrant veggies add a fresh, crunchy element that lifts the meal.

Quick Preparation: This recipe is easy to make, requiring minimal active cooking time. Marinating the quail is a breeze, allowing you to focus on grilling while the flavors meld beautifully.

Versatile Enjoyment: Whether it s a weeknight dinner or a festive barbecue, the quail can be served alongside a variety of sides, adapting to any occasion with flair.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests with a dish that s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The combination of flavors and colors makes it a sure hit at any gathering!

Nutritional Benefits: Giving you a rich source of protein paired with fresh vegetables, this meal is as nutritious as it is delightful. For a complete meal experience, try it alongside a flavorful soy vinaigrette.

BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail Ingredients

For the Quail
Quail This is the star of the dish; its tender meat provides an excellent base for the marinade.
Hoi Sin Sauce Offers a rich sweetness and depth; feel free to swap it with teriyaki sauce if desired.

For the Vietnamese Coleslaw
Cabbage Gives a satisfying crunch; using napa cabbage yields a milder taste.
Carrot Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color; radishes can be a fun substitute for a spicy kick.
Red Capsicum (Bell Pepper) Enhances the dish s visual appeal with color and sweetness; any bell pepper color works well.
Garlic Chives Infuses a unique, aromatic flavor; you can use regular chives if needed.
Rice Vermicelli Provides body and texture to the coleslaw; cooked rice or quinoa are tasty alternatives.

For the Dressing
Fish Sauce Essential for authentic flavor; adjust to taste for a balanced profile.
Palm Sugar Adds a gentle sweetness to complement the dressing; feel free to use brown sugar as a substitute.
Lime Juice Brightens up the dressing with acidity; fresh lime is the best option for that zesty kick.

This BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail paired with Vietnamese coleslaw will tantalize your taste buds while delighting your guests! Don t forget to check out the delicious soy vinaigrette for an extra flavor boost.

How to Make BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail

1. Prepare Quail: Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut along the backbone of the quail, carefully removing it along with any loose innards. Rinse the quail under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a clean and ready protein.

2. Marinate: Generously brush the quail with Hoi Sin sauce, ensuring every crevice is coated for maximum flavor. Cover it and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes the longer, the better, as the marinade infuses the quail with its rich taste.

3. Prepare Coleslaw: Soak rice vermicelli in hot water until soft, typically about 5-7 minutes. Drain the vermicelli and mix it with finely shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped garlic chives in a large bowl. Toss everything together with your prepared dressing for a fresh crunch.

4. BBQ Quail: Preheat your BBQ or chargrill pan over high heat. Lightly spray the grill with canola oil to prevent sticking. Grill the quail skin-side down for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through at an internal temperature of 165 °F (73.9 °C).

5. Serve: Place the beautifully grilled BBQ quail on serving plates alongside the vibrant Vietnamese coleslaw. Drizzle any leftover Hoi Sin sauce over the dish for extra flavor, and enjoy the colorful presentation!

Optional: Garnish with extra garlic chives for added freshness and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail Variations

Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and creative spirit!

• Cornish Hens: Swap quail for tender cornish hens, which cook similarly but offer a heartier serving size.

• Vegetable Twist: Add sliced cucumbers or bean sprouts to your coleslaw for a refreshing crunch and added nutritional diversity.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers into the marinade or coleslaw to infuse a delightful heat that perks up your palate.

• Sweet Substitution: Use mango or pineapple slices in your coleslaw for a tropical flavor boost that beautifully complements the richness of the quail.

• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh mint or cilantro in the coleslaw. These bright herbs add a fragrant note that elevates the entire dish.

• Noodle Alternative: Instead of rice vermicelli, try using glass noodles or shredded cabbage as a base for the coleslaw for a different texture experience.

• Vegan Version: Replace quail with marinated tofu slices to create a satisfying vegetarian alternative that absorbs the Hoi Sin flavor beautifully.

• Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts to your coleslaw for an irresistible nutty crunch that adds depth and interest.

What to Serve with BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail with Vietnamese Coleslaw?

A memorable meal is complete with delicious pairings that enhance every bite of your BBQ delight.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up any extra Hoi Sin sauce while balancing the dish s flavors.

• Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a smoky depth and vibrant color to the table. Plus, the grilling process beautifully complements the BBQ quail.

• Crispy Spring Rolls: A crunchy starter filled with fresh herbs and veggies provides delightful contrast. Their joyful texture mirrors the lively coleslaw.

• Savory Noodle Salad: Cold rice noodles tossed in a tangy dressing add a refreshing twist alongside the warm quail, making for an exciting meal experience.

• Chilled Iced Tea: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate; its slightly sweet notes pair harmoniously with the savory quail and tangy coleslaw.

• Fruit Sorbet: The light and fruity dessert is a perfect way to cleanse the palate after the rich flavors of the main dish. Opt for tropical flavors like mango or coconut for an extra boost!

Each of these pairings elevates the BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail and Vietnamese coleslaw, turning your dinner into a delightful feast. Enjoy!

Storage Tips for BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail

• Fridge: Store any leftover BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure it s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooked quail in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will retain quality for about 2 months; just remember to label it with the date!
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw the quail in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10-15 minutes to preserve its juiciness and crispness.
• Coleslaw Storage: Keep the Vietnamese coleslaw separate from the quail if possible, tightly sealed in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain its crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail with Vietnamese Coleslaw are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the quail up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Simply brush the quail with Hoi Sin sauce, cover, and refrigerate until you re ready to grill. Additionally, you can prepare the Vietnamese coleslaw up to 3 days ahead by shredding the cabbage, carrots, and garlic chives, mixing them in an airtight container. Just toss with the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy. With these make-ahead options, you ll save time and still enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail

• Marinating Time: Allow the quail to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for an even deeper flavor, consider letting it soak overnight in the Hoi Sin sauce.

• Grill Heat Management: Make sure the BBQ or chargrill pan is preheated to high heat for that perfect golden brown color outside while keeping the inside juicy.

• Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the quail reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (73.9 °C). This keeps your BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail safe and delicious!

• Avoiding Tough Rice Vermicelli: Soak the rice vermicelli in hot water just until soft over soaking can lead to a mushy texture, ruining the coleslaw.

• Optional Add-Ons: Feel free to get creative! Adding sliced chilies or fresh herbs into your Vietnamese coleslaw can enhance its flavor and add a delightful kick.

BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail with Vietnamese Coleslaw Recipe FAQs

What type of quail should I use for this recipe?
You can use fresh or frozen quail for this recipe. When selecting fresh quail, look for birds that are plump and have a good amount of fat under the skin. If you re opting for frozen quail, ensure they are well-packed without any freezer burn.

How do I store leftovers of BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail?
Absolutely! Store any leftover BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the quail to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its flavor and texture. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing it is also an option.

Can I freeze the BBQ Hoi Sin Butterfly Quail?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked quail! Place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for about 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it gently in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10-15 minutes to keep it juicy.

What if my rice vermicelli ends up mushy?
If your rice vermicelli becomes mushy, you might have soaked it for too long. Be sure to soak the vermicelli in hot water just until it becomes pliable generally around 5-7 minutes is perfect. If it does get mushy, try mixing it with additional crunchy vegetables in your coleslaw to balance out the texture!

Is this dish safe for those with food allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains common allergens like fish sauce (which contains fish) and may have gluten if using certain hoisin or soy sauces. For those with specific allergies, be sure to substitute accordingly; for example, you could use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure they re safe for your dietary needs.

What can I substitute for Hoi Sin sauce in this recipe?
If you don t have Hoi Sin sauce on hand, feel free to substitute it with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor twist. Other alternatives include a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and a touch of sesame oil to achieve a similar sweet-savory profile. Just keep in mind that if you use something less sweet, you might want to add a bit of sugar or sweetener to balance the flavors!