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Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich

Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich

Master the perfect Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with golden, crunchy coating and juicy, tender chicken inside. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple ingredients and techniques to deliver a satisfying crunch and flavorful bite every time, ideal for casual meals, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt diluted with milk/lemon juice as substitute)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Breading Mix

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

Coating and Frying

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying (enough for 1-2 inches depth)

Sandwich Assembly

  • Soft sandwich buns or brioche buns (gluten-free buns if needed)
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, pickles, mayo, spicy sauce

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts or thighs to an even thickness. Soak them in buttermilk mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper for at least 1 hour or overnight to lock in moisture and tenderness.
  2. Prepare the Breading Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to create the flavorful coating mixture.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dip each piece into beaten eggs, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating sticks well.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan to a depth of 1-2 inches and heat it to 350°F (175°C), the optimal temperature for crisp frying.
  5. Fry Until Golden: Carefully place breaded chicken pieces into hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, turning once, until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Assemble Your Sandwich: Lightly toast the buns. Layer with lettuce, pickles, or desired toppings, add the fried chicken, spread mayo or spicy sauce, and top with the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Double Dredge: For extra crunch, dip chicken back into egg and flour mixture before frying.
  • Oil Temperature Matters: Keep oil between 325-350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
  • Rest After Frying: Let chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispness.
  • Slice Evenly: Make sure chicken thickness is uniform for even cooking.
  • Use a Thermometer: Check internal temperature to ensure safety and juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy fried chicken sandwich, fried chicken, crunchy chicken sandwich, homemade fried chicken, buttermilk fried chicken