Name: Fried Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs and breasts (skinless and boneless); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon white pepper; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1½ teaspoons baking soda; 2 teaspoons sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; salt and pepper ((to taste)); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon pickle juice; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 4 burger buns; 1 cup coleslaw; pickles ((sliced)); vegetable oil ((for frying))

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There’s something about a Fried Chicken Sandwich that makes any day feel special. I still remember the first time I bit into one—crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. That satisfying crunch gave way to tender, marinated chicken, and it was love at first bite. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a busy weekday, I find myself craving this creation. You can’t beat that feeling of biting into a perfectly assembled sandwich that’s packed with homemade sriracha mayo, crisp coleslaw, and, of course, perfectly fried chicken. Every time I make them, it feels like a little celebration in the kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
600 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

The Charm of This Fried Chicken Sandwich

It’s a Comfort Food Classic

The Fried Chicken Sandwich is a timeless dish that resonates with many. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether enjoyed at a casual picnic or a family gathering. There’s just something heartwarming about it.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about a Fried Chicken Sandwich is that you can make it your own. Want it spicy? Add more sriracha. Prefer a hint of sweetness? A touch more honey will do the trick. The options are endless!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This sandwich isn’t just for summer cookouts; it’s perfect for any occasion! From casual dinners to game day gatherings, it always hits the spot, making it a versatile dish.

Simple Yet Delicious

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to create a mouthwatering Fried Chicken Sandwich. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your friends and family.

Great for Meal Prep

If you love meal prepping, this recipe is perfect! You can make a batch of the fried chicken ahead of time, store it, and assemble the sandwiches whenever you’re ready.

A Family Favorite

Children and adults alike adore this dish. It’s a surefire way to get everyone to the table with smiles on their faces.

Key Ingredients for Fried Chicken Sandwich

The ingredients for a Fried Chicken Sandwich are simple yet incredibly effective at creating layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role: from the crispy coating of the chicken to the creamy sriracha mayo and crunchy coleslaw, they all come together to make a truly unforgettable sandwich.

Chicken thighs and breasts (skinless and boneless): The star of this dish, providing juiciness and flavor.
Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
Sweet paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and beautiful color.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a rich, savory flavor.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic beautifully.
Cayenne pepper: Offers a nice kick of heat.
All-purpose flour: Creates the crispy coating for frying.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help to achieve an airy, crispy crust.
Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the sriracha sauce, adding creaminess.
Sriracha: Gives the mayo a spicy zing.
Coleslaw: Adds crunch and freshness to the sandwich.
Burger buns: The perfect vehicle for your flavorful fried chicken.
Vegetable oil: Essential for frying the chicken until golden brown.

How to Make Fried Chicken Sandwich

Making a Fried Chicken Sandwich is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with captivating aromas. The steps are straightforward, and with a little patience, you’ll have a delicious sandwich in no time. Follow these detailed instructions to replicate the magic!

Start by preparing your chicken. Place each piece of chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, pound it until it’s about a quarter inch thick. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but ensures even cooking.
In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: buttermilk, one teaspoon of sweet paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and white pepper. Once mixed, add your chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least an hour. The longer, the better for flavor!
As the chicken marinates, let’s whip up the sriracha sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, pickle juice, and sriracha. Mix well and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Next, it’s time to prepare the dry mixture for the breading. In a shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, the remaining sweet paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend it thoroughly for an even coating.
Now, it’s frying time! Pour about two to three inches of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat it until it reaches 350°F. A good tip is to test the oil by dropping in a small piece of chicken; if it sizzles, you’re good to go.
Once the oil is hot, take each piece of marinated chicken out of the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then place it on a plate lined with parchment paper to catch any excess flour.
Carefully add one or two pieces of chicken to the hot oil, frying for three to four minutes on each side until they are crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently. Place the fried chicken on a cooling rack set over paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this ensures a perfect fry.
Once everything is fried, it’s time to assemble your Fried Chicken Sandwich. Start with a toasted burger bun, spread a generous layer of the sriracha mayo, then add the crispy chicken, followed by a heap of coleslaw and a few slices of pickles. Cap it off with the other half of the bun.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Fried Chicken Sandwich right away, or package it up for a delightful meal later!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating: Always marinate your chicken for at least an hour to ensure tenderness and flavor.
Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid sogginess.
Cooking Time: Fry the chicken until it reaches a golden brown color. This ensures a crispy texture.
Storage: Leftover assembled sandwiches can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze leftover fried chicken pieces for up to three months.

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up with your Fried Chicken Sandwich, consider these exciting variations!

Spicy Twist: Add more sriracha or jalapeños to kick up the heat.
Sweet Addition: Drizzle some honey on the chicken for an unexpected sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spiciness.
Different Slaws: Experiment with different types of slaw, like red cabbage or apple slaw, for unique textures and flavors.
Grilled Option: For a lighter version, grill the chicken instead of frying it. Marinate it the same way, and grill until fully cooked.
Creative Toppings: Use avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a fried egg as additional toppings for a gourmet twist.
Alternative Buns: Try wrapping the sandwich in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or using whole grain buns for a healthier alternative.

How to Serve Fried Chicken Sandwich

Serving a Fried Chicken Sandwich is as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas:

Classic Side Dishes: Pair your sandwich with crispy fries or sweet potato fries. They complement the sandwich perfectly.
Coleslaw: Serve extra coleslaw on the side for added crunch and flavor.
Sandwich Bar: Set up a sandwich bar for gatherings, allowing guests to customize their sandwiches with various toppings and sauces.
Picnic Perfection: These sandwiches make an excellent addition to picnics or outdoor gatherings!
Meal Prep: Prepare the fried chicken ahead of time, allowing for quick assembly when meal prepping for the week.
Seasonal Variations: In summer, serve with fresh veggies or a light salad, while in winter, pair with warm, hearty sides.
Storage Tips: Assembled Fried Chicken Sandwiches can be kept in the fridge for up to three days, perfect for quick lunches.

FAQ

To achieve a crispy fried chicken sandwich, ensure that you have the right oil temperature. Fry the chicken at around 350°F for the best results. Another key is to coat the chicken thoroughly with the flour mixture, and allow it to rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps form a solid crust that keeps the chicken juicy inside.

Absolutely! While I prefer using skinless and boneless chicken thighs and breasts for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken tenders or even bone-in pieces. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the piece you choose. The key is ensuring that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a fried chicken sandwich, consider baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep frying. This method significantly reduces the oil used in preparation and still gives you a satisfying crunch. Just be sure to use a breadcrumb coating for added texture and flavor!

Leftover fried chicken sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep the chicken longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes or place it in a toaster oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

The Fried Chicken Sandwich is truly a delightful dish that combines juicy fried chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce and crunchy coleslaw. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to try making this sandwich at home; once you do, you won’t want to stop! Enjoy the flavors and the fun of creating your own version!