Description
Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Spicy Mayo
This crispy chicken sandwich, packed with tender fried chicken, drizzled with creamy spicy mayo, and served on a toasted sesame bun, is pure indulgence. Perfect for a weekend treat or when you’re craving fast-food-style comfort!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts, halved and pounded to an even thickness
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Spicy Mayo:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp hot sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Sandwich:
4 sesame seed buns, toasted
4 slices pickles (optional)
Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, mix buttermilk with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight for extra flavor).
Prepare the breading:
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry the chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Make the spicy mayo:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Adjust spice level to taste.
Assemble the sandwich:
Spread spicy mayo on both sides of the toasted buns.
Add lettuce (if using), a piece of crispy chicken, pickles, and top with more mayo. Crown with the top bun.
Tips for Extra Flavor
Add a slice of cheddar cheese for a melty twist.
Pair with seasoned fries or onion rings for the ultimate meal.
Enjoy this irresistible crispy chicken sandwich with bold, spicy flavors!
Let me know how it turns out!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Chicken: Butterfly and pound each breast to an even 1/2-inch thickness for uniform cooking. 2. Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure chicken is fully submerged in the seasoned buttermilk for at least 2 hours. 3. Set Up Your Breading Station: Keep one hand for wet (marinade) and one for dry (flour mix) to avoid clumpy fingers. 4. Double Dredge (Optional): For an extra-crispy crust, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk, then into the flour mixture a second time. 5. Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer. Adding chicken will lower the temp; fry in batches and let it return to 350°F between batches. 6. Rest the Chicken: Let fried chicken drain on a wire rack over a sheet pan for 2 minutes to keep the bottom crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sandwich immediately while the chicken is hot and crisp. Classic pairings include crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple side salad to cut the richness. For a picnic or party, set up a “build-your-own” bar with extra toppings like coleslaw, sliced tomatoes, red onion, and different cheese options.
How-to Summary
To make this sandwich, marinate chicken in seasoned buttermilk. Dredge it in a flour-cornstarch blend, then deep-fry at 350°F until golden. Mix mayo with hot sauce and spices for the sauce. Assemble on a toasted bun with lettuce and pickles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes. For a baked version, place breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately. Reheat chicken in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave.
What’s the best oil for frying? Use a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I use chicken thighs? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs are a juicier alternative. Adjust frying time slightly as needed.
How can I make the spicy mayo milder or hotter? Adjust the heat level by starting with 1 tbsp of hot sauce and adding more to taste, or by using a milder or hotter sauce variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Pound: Uneven chicken leads to overcooked edges and undercooked centers.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once drastically lowers oil temperature, resulting in greasy, soggy breading.
- Not Letting Excess Drip Off: Too much buttermilk before dredging creates clumpy, uneven breading.
- Cutting into Chicken Immediately: Let it rest for 5 minutes after frying so the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Crispy Chicken Sandwich delivers on every promise of flavor and texture. The key lies in the simple but crucial steps: a proper marinade, a well-seasoned breading, and careful frying. With the creamy, spicy mayo tying it all together, this homemade version easily rivals any restaurant favorite. Mastering this recipe provides the perfect centerpiece for a satisfying comfort-food meal any day of the week.