Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe

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

Buttermilk: Used for marinating the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.

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

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

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Burger buns: The bread that holds the sandwich together.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the sandwich.

Pickles: Provide a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the fried chicken.

When marinating the chicken breasts in buttermilk, consider adding a touch of hot sauce or garlic powder to the mix for an extra layer of flavor. This will not only tenderize the chicken but also infuse it with a subtle, yet delicious, kick.

• 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 crispy coating and can be used in the same quantity as flour.

• paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the fried chicken.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as black pepper.

• burger buns - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns are slightly sweeter and softer, complementing the savory fried chicken.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a tangy and creamy texture similar to mayonnaise but with fewer calories.

• sliced pickles - Substitute with pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick and a similar tangy flavor to the sandwich.

• Allow the fried chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
• Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain its crispiness and prevents freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped chicken breasts in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• Store the burger buns separately. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them from absorbing moisture from the chicken.
• For the mayonnaise and pickles, store them in the refrigerator in their original containers. Do not freeze these condiments as they can lose texture and flavor.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Toast the burger buns in the oven for the last 5 minutes of reheating the chicken, or until they are warm and slightly crispy.
• Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on the buns, adding the reheated fried chicken, and topping with pickles. Enjoy your delicious fried chicken sandwich as if it were freshly made!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover fried chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is heated through and crispy again.
• For a quicker method, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
• If you prefer using a microwave, place the fried chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.
• To reheat the burger buns, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in the oven for the last 5 minutes of reheating the chicken. Alternatively, you can toast them lightly in a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side.
• Reassemble your fried chicken sandwich by spreading fresh mayonnaise on the reheated buns, adding the reheated chicken, and topping with sliced pickles. Enjoy your revitalized sandwich!

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

• Frying pan: This is essential for frying the chicken to a golden brown perfection.

• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken in the frying pan to ensure even cooking.

• Meat thermometer: Useful to check if the chicken is cooked through, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Toaster or griddle: Perfect for toasting the burger buns lightly.

• Spatula: Helps in spreading mayonnaise on the buns evenly.

• Knife: Needed for slicing pickles if they aren't pre-sliced.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing pickles and handling chicken.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the buttermilk and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring out the paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Plate lined with paper towels: Ideal for placing the fried chicken to drain excess oil.

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

Pre-mix flour: 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 cooking thermometer.

Toast buns together: Toast all burger buns at once in the oven to save time.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all ingredients and assemble multiple sandwiches at once.