Description
Ultimate Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
A crispy, juicy fried chicken fillet drenched in spicy honey butter sauce, smothered in melted cheese & creamy sauce, and packed inside a buttery toasted brioche bun. This sandwich is an irresistible flavor bomb!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Coating:
1 cup flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
Oil for frying
Spicy Honey Butter Sauce:
3 tbsp butter, melted
2 tbsp hot honey
1 tbsp hot sauce
½ tsp cayenne pepper
For Assembling:
2 brioche buns, toasted
2 slices cheddar cheese
¼ cup spicy mayo (mayo + hot sauce + honey)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, & pepper.
Add chicken thighs, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best!).
Coat & Fry
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and salt.
Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in flour mixture, press well, and shake off excess.
Deep-fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes until golden brown & crispy.
Make the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, hot honey, hot sauce, & cayenne pepper.
Assemble the Sandwich
Spread spicy mayo on the toasted brioche buns.
Place the fried chicken on the bun, drizzle with spicy honey butter sauce.
Top with melted cheddar cheese and the bun lid.
Messy, spicy, crispy, and insanely delicious! Who’s ready to take a bite?
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, ensure your chicken thighs are of even thickness by gently pounding them. For the marinade, combine all ingredients thoroughly before adding the chicken. Seal the bowl and refrigerate. When ready to cook, set up your coating station: one bowl with the seasoned flour mixture and a wire rack nearby. Heat your oil in a heavy pot to a steady 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy. Remove one chicken thigh from the buttermilk, let excess drip off, then press it firmly into the flour mixture, ensuring full coverage. Repeat the process by dipping it back into the buttermilk and into the flour a second time for an extra-crispy crust. Fry until deeply golden, then drain on the rack.
Serving Suggestions
This rich sandwich pairs perfectly with lighter, cooling sides. Serve with crisp dill pickle spears and a simple vinegar-based coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, add seasoned waffle fries or sweet potato fries. A cold glass of buttermilk, an iced tea, or a light lager beer makes an excellent beverage pairing to balance the heat.
How-to Summary
Marinate chicken thighs in seasoned buttermilk. Create a dry coating with flour, cornstarch, and spices. Double-dredge the chicken for maximum crunch. Deep-fry at 350°F until golden and cooked through. Whisk together the spicy honey butter sauce. Assemble the sandwich on a toasted brioche bun with spicy mayo, the fried chicken, sauce, and melted cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. If using breasts, pound them to an even thickness and monitor cooking time closely to avoid dryness.
I don’t have buttermilk. What’s a substitute? Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled before using.
How can I make this in an air fryer? After coating, spray the chicken generously with oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
How do I make the sauce less spicy? Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the sauce and use a mild hot sauce. You can also increase the honey or butter to mellow the heat.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? You can marinate the chicken overnight. For best texture, coat and fry the chicken just before serving to maintain crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid frying at too low a temperature, which leads to greasy, soggy chicken. Use a thermometer.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pot, as this causes the oil temperature to drop dramatically.
- Do not skip the buttermilk marinade step; it’s crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
- Avoid placing fried chicken directly on paper towels, as steam can make the bottom soggy. Use a wire rack instead.
- Do not assemble the sandwich too far in advance, or the bun will become soggy from the sauces and hot chicken.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich is a project worth undertaking for its incredible payoff in flavor and texture. The combination of the crispy, juicy chicken, the sweet-heat glaze, and the soft brioche bun creates a truly memorable meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can recreate a gourmet-level sandwich at home. Gather your ingredients, embrace the mess, and get ready for one of the most satisfying bites you’ll ever make.