Spicy Chicken Sandwich Homemade Sauce

Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? This Spicy Chicken Sandwich features an ultra-crispy, golden-fried chicken breast with just the right amount of heat, balanced by a cooling, creamy homemade sauce. Served on a toasted, buttery brioche bun, it is the perfect dish for a family dinner or a game day crowd.

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This sandwich is all about the layers of texture. The soft brioche bun provides a sweet, buttery base that complements the savory and spicy profile of the chicken. Topped with crisp lettuce and tangy pickles, every bite is a satisfying explosion of flavor.

Ingredients

• Chicken & Marinade: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to 1/2-inch thickness), 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.
• Dredge: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
• For Frying: 3 cups vegetable oil.
• Creamy Homemade Sauce: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 teaspoons hot sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon honey (optional), salt and pepper to taste.
• To Serve: 4 brioche burger buns, 8 dill pickle slices, 4 lettuce leaves, 1 small tomato, sliced (optional).

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Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add chicken breasts, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2

In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cayenne, and black pepper to make the dredge.

Step 3

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a wire rack over a sheet pan for draining.

Step 4

Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece in the dredge, pressing firmly to adhere; for extra crunch, dredge each piece twice.

Step 5

Fry chicken 4–6 minutes per side, or until deep golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to the wire rack to drain.

Step 6

For the sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7

Toast brioche buns lightly.

Step 8

Spread sauce generously on both sides of each bun. Layer with fried chicken, pickle slices, lettuce, and tomato (if using).

Step 9

Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a wire rack and sheet pan to drain the chicken prevents the bottom from getting soggy. For the most even cooking and best texture, ensure you use the required tools like a heavy skillet or Dutch oven and a meat thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer more juiciness, swap the chicken breasts for thighs. For extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne in the dredge. You can also customize the bun by using whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs.

Serviervorschläge

This sandwich pairs wonderfully with crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw. To complete the experience, serve it alongside a cold, hoppy beer which cuts through the richness of the fried chicken and creamy sauce.

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With its ultra-crispy exterior and succulent interior, this sandwich is a true crowd-pleaser. Once you master the technique, you will find yourself returning to this recipe whenever you need a flavorful, comforting meal.

Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How can I achieve the crispiest chicken?

For an ultra-crispy texture, ensure you double-dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well. Also, maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

→ What if I prefer a less spicy flavor?

You can easily adjust the heat. Reduce the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper in both the marinade and the dredge mixture to your liking. The creamy sauce also helps balance the spice.

→ Can the homemade sauce be prepared in advance?

Absolutely! The creamy homemade sauce can be made up to 2-3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld, making assembly quicker.

→ What are good alternatives if I don't have brioche buns?

While brioche buns offer a rich, buttery base, you can use other sturdy burger buns. Potato rolls, sesame seed buns, or even a good quality ciabatta can work well. Toasting is key for any choice.

→ Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs is a fantastic alternative! They often remain juicier and more tender during frying. Just ensure they are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

→ How should I store leftover sandwiches?

To keep the components fresh, it's best to store the fried chicken separately from the buns and toppings. Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness, then assemble with fresh ingredients.