This easy crispy chicken sandwich is a mouthwatering treat! With perfectly seasoned, crunchy chicken, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. You can pile it high with your favorite toppings.
I love to add lots of pickles and a zingy sauce for extra flavor. Quick to make, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy without fussing too much!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for even cooking. You can swap with thighs for extra juiciness or use plant-based patties if you’re looking for a vegetarian option!
Buttermilk: This is key for tenderizing the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5-10 minutes as a quick substitute.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the perfect coating. You could use gluten-free flour instead if you have dietary needs. For a bit more flavor, try adding cornstarch for crunchiness!
Spices: Garlic and onion powders, along with paprika, elevate flavor. Feel free to add cayenne for spice or Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Do You Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
To achieve an irresistible crispy crust, the key lies in the coating and frying method. Make sure you follow these steps:
- Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the flour mix—don’t rush this part! Press the flour firmly onto the chicken.
- Fry in hot oil (350°F) to achieve a golden crust quickly, which locks in moisture.
- Use a thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Consider double frying if you want an extra crunch—just fry the chicken for a few minutes, let it rest, and then fry again for that perfect texture.
Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or soft burger buns work great)
- Mayonnaise (for spreading)
- Lettuce leaves
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- Pickle slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. The actual cooking time is around 10-15 minutes. Overall, plan for approximately 50-55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
If the chicken breasts are thick, slice each horizontally into 2 thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook evenly. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Make sure they’re well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours) to let the chicken tenderize and soak up flavor.
2. Making the Seasoned Flour:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the seasoned flour. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Stir well until all the ingredients are mixed together.
3. Coating the Chicken:
After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in your seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure they are thoroughly coated. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate.
4. Heating the Oil:
Next, pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer for accuracy, or drop a small amount of flour into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble if the oil is ready.
5. Frying the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, trying not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Once done, remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Toasting the Buns:
If you’d like, lightly toast the sandwich buns in a pan or oven until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and warmth to your sandwich.
7. Assembling the Sandwich:
It’s time to assemble! Spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Then layer on slices of pickles, crisp lettuce, and the sliced tomatoes. Place the hot, crispy chicken on top, and add a bit more mayo on the top bun before placing it on the sandwich.
8. Serving:
Enjoy your delicious crispy chicken sandwich immediately while it’s warm and crispy. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal any time of day!
This classic crispy chicken sandwich features a crunchy, flavorful crust with juicy chicken inside, balanced by fresh greens, tangy pickles, and creamy mayo on a soft bun. Simple and delicious!
FAQ: Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and can add more flavor to your sandwich. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly, as they may take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor and tenderness, consider marinating for up to 4 hours. Just be cautious not to exceed this time, as the chicken may become too soft.
Can I Make This Sandwich Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch for a great crispy coating. Just make sure all other ingredients, like the buns and mayonnaise, are also gluten-free!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can oven-bake it at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through for a crisp texture, or gently microwave it, being careful not to dry it out.
