Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe – Easy & Delicious

A fried chicken sandwich is a delightful comfort food loved by many. It combines the crispy, golden exterior of fried chicken with the softness of a bun, creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a dinner that satisfies your taste buds, this fried chicken sandwich recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

In this recipe, we will guide you through every step to achieve the perfect crispy chicken, juicy inside, and how to assemble it into a mouthwatering sandwich. With the right seasonings, crispy coating, and a delicious sauce, you’ll have a homemade sandwich that beats any fast food version. So, let’s dive into how you can make this fried chicken sandwich at home!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

• Deep frying pan or large skillet
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking internal temperature)
• Knife (for slicing the chicken if necessary)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving platter

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if preferred)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sandwich:

• 4 burger buns (brioche or potato buns are perfect)
• Lettuce leaves (washed and dried)
• Pickles (optional, for tangy crunch)
• Sliced tomatoes (optional)
• Mayonnaise (or a homemade spicy mayo if desired)
• Hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

How to Make Easy Fried Chicken Sandwich ?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they’re too thick, slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner, ensuring even cooking. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Station
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg until smooth. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it into the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. To test the oil’s temperature, drop in a small piece of bread. If it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, one piece at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Toast your burger buns lightly in the pan or oven for added texture. Spread mayonnaise or your choice of sauce on the buns. Layer the fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun, then top with lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes. Place the top bun over the sandwich, and it’s ready to serve!

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Add a tablespoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for a spicier fried chicken. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the chicken after it’s fried.
• Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich: Mix a little honey and melted butter together and drizzle it over the chicken for a sweet and savory twist.
• Southern-Style: Add a few slices of cheddar cheese on top of the hot chicken and melt it slightly before assembling the sandwich.

Cooking Note

Make sure to monitor the oil temperature while frying to avoid burning the breading. You can use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, which should stay around 350°F (175°C) for the crispiest chicken. If your oil is too hot, the chicken will brown too quickly without cooking through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fried chicken sandwich with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad. For an extra treat, pair it with a cold soda or homemade lemonade. You can also enjoy it with a side of sweet potato fries for a delicious contrast.

Helpful Tips

• Use buttermilk for a richer, tangier flavor in the chicken marinade, which helps to tenderize the meat.
• Double-dip your chicken (buttermilk and then flour mixture) for an extra crispy crust.
• Don’t skip the resting time on paper towels after frying to prevent sogginess.

Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Sandwich Step-by-Step

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry chicken in batches to avoid temperature drops in the oil.
2. Rest the Chicken After Frying: This helps the crust stay crispy and the chicken juicy.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures that the chicken is cooked through without being overdone.
4. Let the Coating Set: After dredging the chicken, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before frying to ensure the coating sticks better.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450-550 (depending on portion size)
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 18g
  (Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.)

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Delicious Grilled Pizza Sandwich Recipe
• Grilled Chicken Panini Recipe
• Ultimate Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
• Copycat Taco Bell Beef Burrito Recipe

FAQs

Q: Can I make the fried chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy again.

Q: What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts and will provide extra juiciness.

Conclusion

This homemade fried chicken sandwich recipe is sure to impress with its crunchy texture and savory flavors. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious sandwich that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy it spicy, sweet, or classic, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness with your family and friends!

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