This Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich is perfect for dinner! With juicy chicken breast coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, it’s simple and satisfying for the whole family.
Who doesn’t love a crispy chicken sandwich? I like to add some lettuce and tomatoes for a fresh crunch. So easy to make, you’ll want to have it every week!
It only takes a few steps to whip up this tasty meal. Just pan-fry the chicken, pile it on a bun, and enjoy! It’s fun to make your own delicious version at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! They add more flavor and are super juicy.
Buttermilk: This is key for that tender, juicy chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for breading. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, which will also help in creating a crispy coating.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder give great flavor. Feel free to adjust or add your favorite spices, like cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a twist!
Buns: Brioche buns add a sweet touch, but any sandwich bun works! Whole grain or ciabatta are nice alternatives if you want something different.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Perfectly Fried Chicken?
Frying chicken to perfection takes just a little practice. Here are some tips to get that golden-brown, crispy coating:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough. Use a thermometer to aim for 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cool, the chicken will soak up oil and become greasy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil’s temperature.
- After frying, let the chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil so it stays crispy when you build your sandwich.
These steps will ensure you get juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfectly crisp every time. Enjoy your delicious sandwich!
Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or hamburger buns)
- 4 leaves of green leaf lettuce
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- Dill pickle slices
- Mayonnaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crispy chicken sandwich will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate. The frying process only takes about 10-15 minutes. In about an hour, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken breasts. Make sure they are well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the chicken and add flavor.
3. Mix the Breading:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the breading. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well so the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can check if it’s ready by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s good to go!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Now dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing down to make sure they’re well-coated. This is what gives your chicken that crispy exterior!
6. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. 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/75°C). You may need to adjust the heat to ensure the oil doesn’t get too hot.
7. Drain the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil, keeping them crispy!
8. Toast the Buns:
While the chicken is resting, lightly toast the sandwich buns in the skillet or toaster until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and prevents sogginess.
9. Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread mayonnaise on the top and bottom of each bun. On the bottom bun, layer with pickle slices, fresh green leaf lettuce, tomato slices, and finally the crispy fried chicken breast.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Top with the bun crown and your easy, crispy chicken sandwich is ready to serve! Enjoy it with your favorite sides like fries or a salad for a complete meal. Happy eating!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a more flavorful and juicy option. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for easy cooking and eating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthy?
To make a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken as directed, then place it on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until cooked through and crispy.
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will deepen the flavor and make the chicken even more tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the coating crispy. Assembly should be done fresh for the best taste!
