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Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles and Sauce

Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe: A Perfect Crunchy & Juicy Bite

This homemade crispy fried chicken sandwich is the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken with a golden, crunchy coating, topped with creamy sauce and fresh pickles, all inside a soft, toasted brioche bun. This easy-to-make recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. Serve it with fries or coleslaw for an irresistible meal!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk for mixing batter
  • Tongs for frying
  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Wire rack for draining oil
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Thermometer (to check oil temperature)

Ingredients
  

  • 🔹 For the Chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts cut into halves
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 🔹 For the Breading:
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch for extra crispiness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for spice
  • 🔹 For Frying:
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for deep frying
  • 🔹 For Assembling the Sandwich:
  • 4 brioche buns toasted
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce optional
  • 8 slices dill pickles
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce

Instructions
 

  • 1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • 2️⃣ Add chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated in the buttermilk mixture.
  • 3️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
  • 🔸 Step 2: Prepare the Breading
  • 4️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  • 🔸 Step 3: Coat the Chicken
  • 5️⃣ Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  • 6️⃣ Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat well.
  • 🔸 Step 4: Fry the Chicken
  • 7️⃣ Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  • 8️⃣ Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • 9️⃣ Remove and drain on a wire rack (not paper towels) to keep it crispy.
  • 🔸 Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
  • 🔟 Toast brioche buns in a skillet until lightly golden.
  • 1️⃣1️⃣ Spread mayonnaise (or spicy mayo) on each bun.
  • 1️⃣2️⃣ Place the crispy fried chicken on the bun, add pickles and shredded lettuce.
  • 1️⃣3️⃣ Top with the second bun and serve immediately!

Notes

For Extra Crunch: Double-dip the chicken by coating it twice in flour.
Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or mix hot sauce into the mayo.
Healthier Option: Use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.