Description
This homemade crispy fried chicken sandwich combines juicy chicken with a spicy marinade and a crunchy coating for a delicious fast food-style meal you can make at home.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large breasts chicken, cut into 4 cutlets, or 4 boneless thighs (Thighs are juicier but may need to be trimmed or flattened for even frying.)
- 1 to 1.5 cups buttermilk (or plain yogurt thinned with water) (Marinade for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons hot sauce (Use more for spicier flavors.)
Coating Mixture
- 1.5 cups flour (Season the flour generously.)
- 0.5 cups cornstarch (Adds extra brittleness to the coating.)
- to taste spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, salt) (Adjust to desired spice levels.)
Buns and Toppings
- brioche or potato buns (Toast the buns to enhance flavor.)
- toppings: lettuce, pickles, sliced onions, cheese (optional) (Add toppings according to preference.)
Frying
- neutral oil (canola, peanut, sunflower) (For frying the chicken.)
Instructions
Marinate Chicken
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices. Add chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
Prepare Coating
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and spices.
- In another bowl, add a few spoonfuls of the buttermilk marinade to the flour and rub with fingers to create clumps.
Fry Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 325-350°F (160-175°C).
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Press into the flour mix, then rest on a rack for about 10 minutes.
- Fry chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain on a wire rack, not paper towels.
Assemble Sandwich
- Toast buns lightly. Spread sauce on both sides. Layer lettuce, fried chicken, cheese (if using), and pickles.
- Top with more sauce and the top bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored separately. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. Check for seasoning and adjust sauce levels to taste.
- Prep Time: 4 hours
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Sandwich
- Cuisine: American, Fast Food