Fried Chicken Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fried chicken sandwich delivers everything you crave: golden, crunchy coating, tender and juicy chicken, and the perfect balance of seasoning. It’s simple enough to make at home but feels like something you’d get from a great restaurant. Best of all, you can customize it endlessly with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Ingredients

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

boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
buttermilk
hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
cayenne pepper
salt
black pepper
vegetable oil (for frying)
burger buns
mayonnaise or your choice of sandwich sauce
pickles (optional)
lettuce (optional)
tomato slices (optional)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure a good coating.
4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Carefully add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness).
6. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
7. Toast the burger buns if desired. Spread mayo or sauce on the buns, then layer with fried chicken and desired toppings.
8. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (not including marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne to the breading or brush the cooked chicken with spicy oil.
• Nashville Hot Style: Toss fried chicken in a hot chili oil mix for a fiery Southern twist.
• Brioche Buns: Swap regular buns for buttery brioche for a richer flavor.
• Sauce Swap: Try sriracha mayo, honey mustard, ranch, or chipotle sauce.
• Coleslaw Topper: Add a scoop of creamy slaw for crunch and contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen or after thawing overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of chicken for sandwiches?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work well too if pounded to an even thickness.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Drain the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels and avoid covering it immediately to prevent steam from softening the crust.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Yes, while it won’t be quite as crispy, air-frying at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes (flipping halfway) is a lighter alternative.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight will give the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch. Make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What kind of oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

What buns are best for fried chicken sandwiches?

Brioche, potato, or classic hamburger buns all work well, depending on your preference.

Should I double-dip the chicken?

Double-dipping (dredging, dipping in buttermilk again, and dredging once more) gives an extra crispy coating but is optional.

Can I make this sandwich in advance?

You can prepare and fry the chicken ahead of time, but for best texture, assemble the sandwich just before serving.

Conclusion

The Fried Chicken Sandwich is a crispy, flavorful classic that never goes out of style. With juicy chicken, a crunchy crust, and endless topping options, it’s a satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you like it mild or spicy, plain or fully loaded, this sandwich is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Fried Chicken Sandwich

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A crispy, juicy Fried Chicken Sandwich made with seasoned fried chicken thighs or breasts, served on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings and sauces. It’s crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold, comforting flavor.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating)
• Yield: 4 sandwiches
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 burger buns
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or preferred sandwich sauce
• Pickles (optional)
• Lettuce (optional)
• Tomato slices (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge in flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain chicken on a wire rack or paper towels.
7. Toast burger buns, then spread mayo or sauce on both sides.
8. Assemble sandwiches with fried chicken and optional pickles, lettuce, and tomato.
9. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

• Double-dipping the chicken in flour and buttermilk creates an extra crispy crust.
• Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use a thermometer to ensure oil stays at 350°F for best frying results.
• Brioche buns add extra richness and flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 115mg