Description
This Crispy Chicken Sandwich features juicy, marinated chicken thighs coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. Paired with a tangy mayonnaise-based sauce, crisp pickles, fresh lettuce, and toasted hamburger buns, this classic sandwich offers a delightful balance of textures and bold flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 6 Chicken thighs
For the Breading
- 2 cups Flour
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 2 teaspoons Smoked paprika
- 1–2 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- Black pepper, to taste
For Frying
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or peanut oil recommended)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Hot sauce or sriracha (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Lemon juice
For Assembling
- Pickles
- Lettuce
- Hamburger buns
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, and garlic powder. Add the chicken thighs and make sure they are completely submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Bread the Chicken: In another large shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, and black pepper. Remove the chicken from the marinade one piece at a time, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure a crispy crust. Shake off any excess flour and set the chicken aside.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pot or heavy-bottomed pan to a temperature between 350°F and 375°F (175–190°C). Carefully add 2 to 3 pieces of chicken at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 6 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce (or sriracha), salt, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the hamburger buns until lightly golden. Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce on both halves of each bun. Layer the bottom bun with pickles and lettuce, then add a piece of crispy chicken on top. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the sandwiches hot to enjoy the best crunch and juiciness. These sandwiches are perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor.
- Use a thermometer to maintain proper oil temperature for even frying and to avoid greasy chicken.
- Feel free to customize the sauce by adjusting the amount of hot sauce or adding other spices.
- Ensure chicken thighs are boneless and skinless for easier frying and eating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: crispy chicken sandwich, fried chicken sandwich, homemade chicken sandwich, buttermilk fried chicken, easy chicken sandwich recipe
