This Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich is a tasty treat everyone will love! It features a juicy chicken breast coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, all nestled in a soft bun.
Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for extra flavor. I always enjoy a good crunch when I take a bite—who doesn’t? Try it out this weekend!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are key for a juicy sandwich. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even use plant-based chicken if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Buttermilk: This is great for marinating, adding moisture and flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes. It works just as well!
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch, which I love! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do. You could also try crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or peanut oil works for frying. I prefer canola for its mild flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
To get that amazing crunch, the coating process is crucial. Start by flattening the chicken to ensure even cooking. Marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and moisture, which is especially important. When coating the chicken, press the flour and breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help it stick.
- Heat the oil properly until it shimmers, ensuring a crispy exterior. Too low heat can result in greasy chicken.
- Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, allowing it to get golden brown. Don’t rush this part!
- After frying, place the chicken on a paper towel to soak up excess oil. This keeps it crispy.
Follow these tips, and your crispy chicken sandwich will be a hit every time! Enjoy!
Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or soft hamburger buns)
- 4 leaves green leaf lettuce
- 4 slices tomato
- 8 slices dill pickles
- Mayonnaise or sandwich sauce of choice
Time Estimate:
This delicious chicken sandwich will take about 30 minutes of prep time and about 10-15 minutes for cooking. Don’t forget to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours!) to really enhance the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. You can do this using a meat mallet or even a rolling pin covered in plastic wrap.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the buttermilk with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the flattened chicken breasts to the buttermilk marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting them sit for 1-2 hours works even better!
3. Coat the Chicken:
In another shallow dish, combine the flour and breadcrumbs. Once the chicken is marinated, take it out and let any excess marinade drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour-breadcrumb mixture, making sure to cover them well. Press lightly on the chicken to help the coating stick.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering (around 350°F / 175°C). Carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed!
5. Drain and Toast:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Meanwhile, lightly toast your sandwich buns in the skillet or toaster until they’re warm and slightly crispy.
6. Assemble the Sandwich:
To put it all together, spread a generous layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Layer on a couple of dill pickle slices, a lettuce leaf, a slice of tomato, and finally, the crispy chicken breast. Add any extra dollops of mayonnaise or sauce on top before placing the top bun over the sandwich.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich is ready to serve! Enjoy it fresh and hot for a delightful meal.
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful sandwich. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for the best results, and adjust cooking time as needed since thighs can be slightly thicker.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk (whole or low-fat) with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the assembled sandwiches separate to prevent sogginess—add the toppings just before serving for the best texture!
Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying It?
Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake the coated chicken. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
