This Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich is all about juicy chicken with a crunchy coating, served on a soft bun. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and super tasty!
Making this sandwich is a breeze! Just fry up the chicken, throw it on a bun, and enjoy. It’s a surefire way to impress your family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a classic sandwich. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! You could also use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, a simple substitution is to mix one cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using!
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the best texture, but whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist. You could even use gluten-free flour if you’re avoiding gluten.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices! If you like it spicy, add more hot sauce or even cayenne pepper. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, skip the hot sauce altogether.
How Do You Get Crispy Chicken Every Time?
The secret to crispy chicken is all in the preparation and frying technique. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, while the seasoned flour gives that satisfying crunch.
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Double dredging, dipping back into buttermilk, then flour again, really boosts crispiness.
- Don’t crowd the pan. Fry in batches if needed, so the chicken cooks evenly.
- Keep the oil at the right temperature (around 350°F). A thermometer is handy, but you can test by dropping in a bit of flour—it should sizzle!
With these tips, you’ll achieve a deliciously crispy chicken every time! Enjoy crafting this delightful sandwich!
How to Make Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), pounded to even thickness
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or soft hamburger buns preferred)
- Mayonnaise
- 4 leaves of green leaf lettuce
- 1 ripe tomato, sliced
- Dill pickle slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, expect to spend around 30-40 minutes in total from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Place the chicken breasts in the mixture, covering them well. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step helps ensure juicy chicken.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your chicken that delicious crispy outer layer!
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check when the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) for the best frying temperature.
4. Dredge the Chicken:
When the chicken has marinated, take it out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat thoroughly. For extra crispiness, you can dip the flour-coated chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan!
6. Drain and Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
If desired, lightly toast the sandwich buns. Spread mayonnaise on the top and bottom buns. On the bottom bun, layer the pickles, lettuce, tomato slices, and then the crispy fried chicken. Top with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious homemade Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich immediately, and don’t forget your favorite sides like fries or coleslaw. Enjoy the crunch and flavor!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor to your sandwich. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mixture or cornstarch. Just make sure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
Is It Okay to Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk the night before. This allows for better flavor and tenderness. Just remember to coat and fry them just before serving for optimal crispiness!
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Sandwiches?
To reheat, remove the chicken from the bread to keep it crispy. Heat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Reassemble the sandwich with fresh lettuce and tomato for the best taste!
