Marry Me Chicken Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is packed with flavor and textures that create the perfect sandwich. The chicken is juicy and crispy on the outside, and the creamy sauce adds a richness that makes every bite satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser, easy to prepare, and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether for a quick dinner or a special treat, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

• 4 sandwich buns

• 4 slices of cheese (optional, mozzarella or cheddar work well)

• Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat the chicken evenly.

4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

5. Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C), remove from the skillet and place on the prepared baking sheet.

6. If using cheese, place a slice of cheese on each piece of chicken and bake in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. While the chicken bakes, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl to create the creamy sauce.

8. Toast the sandwich buns lightly in a separate pan or in the oven.

9. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the creamy sauce on both halves of the buns, then place the crispy chicken on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired. Top with the other half of the bun.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Marry Me Chicken Sandwich: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the creamy sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on the chicken for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Version: Instead of pan-frying, grill the chicken breasts for a lighter version of this sandwich.

• Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with a plant-based chicken patty and swap the mayo for a vegan alternative.

• Cheese Options: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken breasts and buns separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet for a few minutes on each side.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They are slightly juicier and can add more flavor, though they may take a little longer to cook.

2. Can I make this sandwich in advance?

While the chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the buns fresh and crispy.

3. Can I make the creamy sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.

4. How can I make this sandwich healthier?

To make this sandwich healthier, you can opt for grilled chicken instead of fried, use whole wheat buns, and reduce the amount of mayo in the creamy sauce.

5. Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts. Let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

6. Can I use a different sauce?

Of course! If you’re not a fan of mayo-based sauces, try using ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or a homemade spicy aioli for different flavor profiles.

7. What type of buns work best?

Soft brioche buns or potato buns are perfect for this recipe. They are slightly sweet and have a soft, pillowy texture that complements the crispy chicken.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check.

9. Can I add other toppings to the sandwich?

Definitely! You can add sautéed onions, bacon, or avocado for additional flavor and texture.

10. Can I make this recipe without frying the chicken?

Yes! You can bake the chicken breasts in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through, or use an air fryer for a healthier, crispy option.

Conclusion

The Marry Me Chicken Sandwich is a delectable and satisfying meal that will surely impress anyone who tries it. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings makes this sandwich irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit!