Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken overnight and mix the dry coating ahead. Fry right before serving for the best crunch.

What oil is best for frying?

Canola or peanut oil are both great because they handle heat well and taste clean.

How do I know the chicken is cooked?

The safest way is a thermometer. Aim for 165 F in the thickest part.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

It helps a lot, but you can fake it with milk plus a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit 5 minutes.

Totally up to you. Keep cayenne low for mild, or add more hot sauce and cayenne for serious heat.

Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich That's Juicy and Delicious!

Description

A flavorful and satisfying crispy fried chicken sandwich that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfect for any night.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

4 pieces Chicken thighs or breasts (Thighs are preferred for juiciness.)
1 cup Buttermilk (For tender, juicy chicken.)
1-2 tablespoons Hot sauce (Optional, adds flavor to the marinade.)
1 teaspoon Salt (For seasoning the marinade.)
1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Adds flavor to the marinade.)
1 teaspoon Paprika (Adds color and flavor to the marinade.)
1 pinch Cayenne (Optional, for extra heat.)

Coating

1 cup All-purpose flour (For the main coating.)
1/4 cup Cornstarch (For additional crunch.)
1 teaspoon Salt (For seasoning the flour coating.)
1 teaspoon Paprika (For flavor in the coating.)
1 teaspoon Garlic powder (For flavor in the coating.)
1 teaspoon Onion powder (For flavor in the coating.)
1 pinch Cayenne (Optional, for extra heat.)

Assembly

4 buns Soft brioche or potato buns (For the sandwich.)
1 cup Pickles (Essential topping.)
As needed Oil (neutral, like peanut or canola) (For frying.)

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Instructions

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
Add the chicken into the marinade and cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Prepare Coating

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.

Fry Chicken

Heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C).
Remove chicken from marinade; let excess drip off.
Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per piece.
Transfer to a wire rack to drain.

Assemble Sandwich

Toast the buns.
Spread sauce on the bottom bun, add fried chicken, top with pickles and any additional toppings, then add sauce to the top bun.

Notes

Ensure chicken is at room temperature before frying. Let it rest on a rack to maintain crispiness. Pair with a variety of sauces like spicy mayo or sweet chili.

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: American, Fast Food