Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein for the sandwich.

Buttermilk: Used to marinate the chicken, making it tender and juicy.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the breading for the chicken.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor to the breading.

Garlic powder: Enhances the savory taste of the chicken.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and the breading.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and flavor to the breading.

Burger buns: The vessel for your delicious fried chicken.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and tang to the sandwich.

Pickles: Provide a crunchy, tangy contrast to the fried chicken.

To achieve an extra crispy coating on your fried chicken, double-dredge the chicken breasts. After the initial dredging in the flour mixture, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then dredge it again in the flour mixture. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well during frying.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and can be seasoned and fried in the same way as chicken.

• buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can tenderize the meat similarly to buttermilk and adds a tangy flavor.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch creates a crispier coating when fried.

• paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a similar color and a bit more heat.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions can add a similar flavor profile and texture.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor to the seasoning.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.

• burger buns - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, complementing the fried chicken well.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that still provides creaminess.

• sliced pickles - Substitute with pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick and tanginess.

• Allow the fried chicken breasts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• Place each chicken breast in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain its crispiness and prevents it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Store the burger buns separately in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming stale.
• Keep the mayonnaise and sliced pickles in their original containers, ensuring they are tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
• For freezing, wrap each fried chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the containers with the date to keep track of their freshness. Fried chicken breasts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to reheat, thaw frozen chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Toast the burger buns just before assembling the sandwich to ensure they remain fresh and warm.
• Assemble the sandwich with freshly toasted burger buns, reheated fried chicken breast, mayonnaise, and sliced pickles for the best taste and texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the fried chicken breasts on the rack. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they don't overcook.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the fried chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. Note that this method may not keep the coating as crispy.

• To reheat the burger buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can toast them in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken breasts in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For the mayonnaise and pickles, it's best to add them fresh after reheating the chicken and buns to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Frying pan: This is essential for frying the chicken breasts until they are golden brown and cooked through.

• Tongs: These will help you handle the chicken breasts while frying and avoid burns.

• Meat thermometer: Use this to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the chicken breasts and toasting the burger buns in the pan.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the flour and spices evenly.

• Plate: Place the dredged chicken breasts on this before frying.

• Paper towels: Use these to drain the excess oil from the fried chicken breasts.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the pickles if they are not pre-sliced.

• Cutting board: Use this as a safe surface for slicing pickles and preparing other ingredients.

• Measuring cups: These will help you measure out the buttermilk and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Toaster or toaster oven: This can be used to toast the burger buns if you prefer not to use the pan.

Marinate overnight: Marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-mix flour coating: Combine the flour mixture ingredients ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Use a thermometer: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature quickly by using a kitchen thermometer.

Toast buns together: Toast all burger buns at once on a baking sheet in the oven to save time.

Pre-slice pickles: Slice the pickles in advance and store them in the fridge.