Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe: A crispy, golden-brown fried chicken sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. Unlike store-bought versions, a homemade fried chicken sandwich gives you control over the flavors, crispiness, and quality of ingredients.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a sandwich that is juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients Needed
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half for 4 pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional for spice)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or peanut oil for better flavor)
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 brioche buns (or potato buns)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices of tomato
- Pickles (optional)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
Preparing the Chicken
Choosing the Right Cut
For the best fried chicken sandwich, boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they are juicier. However, chicken breasts cut in half work well too.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
Marination is the key to juicy and flavorful fried chicken. It tenderizes the meat and allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
Making the Buttermilk Marinade
Why Buttermilk?
Buttermilk helps break down the proteins in chicken, making it more tender and giving the batter a better texture when frying.
Marination Process
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces and fully coat them.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Preparing the Coating
Why Add Cornstarch?
Cornstarch in the breading makes the chicken extra crispy.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all spices.
- Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Breading the Chicken Properly
Dredging Technique
- Take the marinated chicken and let excess buttermilk drip off.
- Coat it in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so it sticks.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before frying for better adhesion.
Double-Dipping Method
For extra crunch, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat it again in the flour mixture.
Frying the Chicken
Best Oil for Frying
Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil work best for frying due to their high smoke points.
Frying Instructions
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
- Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness.
Making a Homemade Sauce
Classic Sauce Options
- Spicy mayo (mayonnaise + hot sauce)
- Honey mustard
- Garlic aioli
Quick Homemade Sauce Recipe
- Mix ½ cup mayonnaise with 1 teaspoon mustard and 1 teaspoon hot sauce.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder and mix well.
Toasting the Buns
How to Toast the Buns
- Spread butter on the cut side of each bun.
- Toast them on a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Assembling the Sandwich
Layering for the Best Flavor
- Spread the sauce on both sides of the toasted buns.
- Add a layer of lettuce and tomato slices.
- Place the crispy fried chicken on top.
- Add pickles (optional).
- Cover with the top bun and press gently.
Side Dishes to Serve
A fried chicken sandwich is great on its own, but adding the right side dish can take your meal to the next level. Here are some delicious sides that pair perfectly with your homemade sandwich:
Popular Side Dishes
- French Fries – Classic, crispy fries seasoned with salt and black pepper.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing, creamy slaw adds a crunchy contrast.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
- Onion Rings – Golden, crispy onion rings for an extra crunch.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier and slightly sweet alternative to regular fries.
Quick Homemade Fries Recipe
- Cut potatoes into thin strips and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Drain, pat dry, and toss with a little cornstarch for crispiness.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown.
- Drain on a wire rack and season with salt.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover fried chicken, you can store and reheat it while keeping it crispy.
How to Store Fried Chicken
- Let the chicken cool completely before storing it.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep the buns separate to prevent them from getting soggy.
Best Way to Reheat Fried Chicken
Avoid microwaving, as it makes the chicken soggy. Instead:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through.
For an even crispier texture, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a fried chicken sandwich at home can be easy, but here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Letting the Chicken Marinate Long Enough
Marination is key to juicy chicken. Try marinating for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Skipping the Cornstarch in the Coating
Cornstarch makes the chicken extra crispy. Don’t leave it out!
3. Using the Wrong Oil
Avoid oils with low smoke points like olive oil. Use vegetable, peanut, or canola oil for frying.
4. Frying at the Wrong Temperature
- Too low? The chicken absorbs oil and becomes greasy.
- Too high? The coating burns before the inside cooks.
- Ideal temp: 350°F (175°C).
5. Not Resting the Fried Chicken
Placing fried chicken on paper towels makes it soggy. Instead, rest it on a wire rack.
Variations of Fried Chicken Sandwich
Looking to spice things up? Try these delicious variations:
Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
- Mix hot sauce with the buttermilk marinade for extra heat.
- Toss the fried chicken in spicy honey butter before assembling.
Southern-Style Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich
- After frying, brush the chicken with honey butter.
- Use buttermilk biscuits instead of buns.
- Add a touch of hot honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
- After frying, dip the chicken in a spicy sauce made with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and butter.
- Serve with pickles and coleslaw for a classic Nashville-style sandwich.
FAQs about Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
1. What type of chicken is best for a fried chicken sandwich?
For the juiciest and most flavorful sandwich, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are typically preferred due to their tenderness and fat content. However, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option.
2. How do I ensure my chicken is crispy when fried?
To achieve that coveted crispy texture, ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before frying. Use a well-seasoned flour or breadcrumb coating and do not overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil’s temperature.
3. What oil should I use for frying?
High-smoke point oils such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are best for frying. These oils withstand high temperatures without burning, crucial for achieving golden, crispy chicken.
4. Can I make the sandwich healthier?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, consider using an air fryer to cook the chicken with minimal oil or bake it in the oven. Additionally, opt for whole-grain buns and include plenty of fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes.
5. What are some good toppings for a fried chicken sandwich?
Classic toppings include pickles, mayonnaise, and lettuce. To spice things up, add coleslaw, avocado slices, or a spicy aioli. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the toppings to your taste!
6. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least an hour or, ideally, overnight will infuse it with flavors and help tenderize the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy sandwich.
7. What should I do if my chicken is cooking too fast on the outside?
If the exterior is browning too quickly, lower your fryer or stove’s heat slightly. This will allow the chicken to cook through evenly without burning the crust.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Now that you have a step-by-step guide to making the perfect fried chicken sandwich, it’s time to try it out! This recipe gives you the crispiest, juiciest chicken with layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you go for the classic, spicy, or Nashville-style version, you’re in for a treat.
