Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich is a classic that combines crispy, tender chicken with the perfect balance of fresh vegetables and creamy sauce. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken is flavorful and juicy, while the crispy exterior provides that irresistible crunch. Quick to make and absolutely delicious, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying sandwich that hits all the right notes!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• 4 sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns work great)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)

• Fresh lettuce

• Sliced pickles

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

2. Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).

3. In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.

4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

5. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick coating.

6. Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

7. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

8. Toast the sandwich buns lightly in the skillet or oven until golden brown.

9. To assemble the sandwich, spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Add a layer of fresh lettuce and a few slices of pickles.

10. Place the fried chicken breast on top, then top with the other half of the bun.

11. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours for marinating)

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating time)

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich: Add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or sprinkle cayenne pepper on the chicken for extra heat.

• Honey Butter Fried Chicken Sandwich: For a sweet touch, drizzle honey butter on the fried chicken before assembling the sandwich.

• Grilled Buttermilk Chicken Sandwich: Instead of frying, grill the buttermilk-marinated chicken breasts for a lighter version of the sandwich.

• Southern-Style Fried Chicken Sandwich: Add a layer of coleslaw on top of the fried chicken for a crunchy, creamy twist.

• Cheese-Lover’s Fried Chicken Sandwich: Add a slice of cheddar, American, or Swiss cheese on top of the fried chicken just before it finishes cooking for a melty, cheesy addition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fried chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I make the fried chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fried chicken in advance. Just store the cooked chicken in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven to keep it crispy.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since they may take a bit longer to cook through.

3. Can I make the sandwich without pickles?

Yes, you can skip the pickles or replace them with other toppings like tomatoes, onions, or avocado.

4. How can I make the chicken spicier?

To add spice, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

5. Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes, you can use other oils like canola, peanut, or sunflower oil for frying. Make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point.

6. Can I freeze the fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked fried chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

7. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, a deep fryer works perfectly for frying the chicken. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy.

8. Can I use a different bread for the sandwich?

Yes, you can use other types of bread such as ciabatta rolls, sourdough, or whole wheat buns for a different twist.

9. How do I keep the chicken crispy after frying?

To maintain the crispiness, avoid stacking the chicken after frying. Place it on a wire rack or paper towels to allow air circulation and prevent sogginess.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safe to eat.

Conclusion

The Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich is the ultimate indulgence, offering the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing sandwich that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether for a casual lunch or a weekend treat, this sandwich will become a family favorite in no time!