This easy crispy chicken sandwich is a real treat! Juicy chicken coated in a crunchy layer makes it so satisfying. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that everyone will love!
Honestly, the crunch when you bite into it is just amazing. I usually add some fresh veggies and my favorite sauce to make it even better. Yum! You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they’re easy to work with. If you’re short on time, chicken thighs can be a tasty, juicier alternative.
Buttermilk: This is key for a tender chicken. You can easily make your own by mixing regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but if you want a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. However, do check if it requires any adjustments.
Buns: Brioche buns add a touch of sweetness. If you prefer, whole grain or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option are great choices!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting the chicken crispy is what this recipe is all about! Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken (around 350°F). If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb the oil and become soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and a better crunch.
- Let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes after dredging. This helps set the flour and creates a better crust when frying.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a deliciously crispy chicken sandwich that everyone will love!
Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche preferred)
- Mayonnaise or sandwich sauce of choice
- 4 large lettuce leaves (green leaf lettuce)
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Dill pickle slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy crispy chicken sandwich takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 1-6 hours for marinating the chicken. The cooking will take around 15-20 minutes, so overall, you’re looking at about 1-6 hours and 30 minutes depending on marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner pieces—about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Marinate:
In a bowl, mix together the buttermilk and the optional hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—for better flavor, aim for 4 to 6 hours.
3. Prepare the Flour Coating:
While the chicken is marinating, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl. This seasoned flour will give your chicken that perfect crunch.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to get a good coating. Place the coated chicken on a plate and let it rest for about 10 minutes to help the crust adhere.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to reach about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to check the temperature for the best frying results.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
8. Toast the Buns:
While the chicken is draining, toast the sandwich buns lightly on a dry skillet or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
9. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread mayonnaise or your preferred sandwich sauce on both the top and bottom buns. On the bottom bun, layer the dill pickle slices, followed by lettuce, tomato slices, and the crispy chicken. Finally, place the top bun on the sandwich.
10. Serve:
Serve the sandwiches immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy. Enjoy your delicious homemade crispy chicken sandwich with your favorite sides like fries, coleslaw, or a refreshing salad!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw the chicken first! Thaw in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat dry thoroughly before marinating.
What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best experience, reheat the chicken in an oven or skillet to keep it crispy instead of using a microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Absolutely! To make a lighter version, try baking the chicken instead of frying it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.
