Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce – are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will forever change your perception of the humble chicken sandwich? I am absolutely thrilled to share with you a recipe that promises an explosion of flavors and textures, transforming your mealtime into an unforgettable experience. For years, the spicy chicken sandwich has transcended its humble fast-food origins, evolving into a gourmet sensation cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide. Its universal appeal lies in that perfect symphony of sensations: the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried, seasoned chicken, followed by a delightful kick of heat that awakens your palate.
The Secret to Unforgettable Flavor: Our Homemade Sauce
But what truly elevates this dish, making it a homemade masterpiece, is our secret weapon: a cool, tangy, and incredibly luxurious homemade sauce. This sauce isn’t just an accompaniment; it’s the harmonizing element that tames the spice and adds an unparalleled richness, ensuring every bite is balanced and deeply satisfying. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste and contrasting textures – crispy, juicy chicken against a soft bun and silken sauce – but also for the pure comfort and joy it brings. Imagine recreating that coveted restaurant-quality sandwich right in your own kitchen, customized exactly to your liking. Preparing your own Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce means you control the ingredients, the spice level, and the generous dollops of that irresistible sauce. Get ready to ditch the drive-thru and embrace the superior flavor of homemade!
Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share with you the definitive recipe for a truly incredible Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce. This isn’t just any fried chicken sandwich; it’s a labor of love that promises a symphony of flavors and textures – from the incredibly juicy, spicy chicken to the crisp, golden-brown crust, all brought together by a tangy, cooling, and utterly delicious homemade sauce. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game to legendary status!
Ingredients:
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For the Spicy Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 – 2 lbs total), trimmed of excess fat. While breasts can be used, I find thighs offer superior juiciness and flavor for this spicy chicken sandwich.
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (your favorite brand, I often go for a Louisiana-style hot sauce)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level, or omit for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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For the Crispy Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (this is my secret for extra crispiness!)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (another crispiness booster!)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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For the Creamy Homemade Sauce:
- 1 cup good quality mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (match the one used in the marinade for consistency, or use a different one for a layered flavor)
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice (from a jar of dill pickles, don’t skip this for that essential tang!)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey (to balance the acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of salt and black pepper to taste
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For Frying:
- 6-8 cups peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil (enough to submerge the chicken in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven)
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For Assembling the Spicy Chicken Sandwich:
- 4 brioche buns, split and lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup dill pickle chips (bread and butter pickles also work if you prefer a sweeter crunch)
- Green leaf lettuce or iceberg lettuce, shredded or whole leaves
- Tomato slices (optional, but I love the freshness)
Marinating the Chicken: The Foundation of Flavor and Tenderness
The journey to a truly exceptional Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce begins with a proper marinade. This isn’t just about infusing flavor; it’s crucial for tenderizing the chicken and ensuring it remains incredibly juicy, even after frying.
- First, prepare your chicken. If using chicken thighs, trim off any excessive fat or gristle. If you’ve opted for chicken breasts, I recommend slicing them horizontally to create two thinner cutlets from each breast, or pounding them lightly with a meat mallet to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and fit perfectly onto your brioche bun.
- In a large bowl or a gallon-sized freezer bag, combine the buttermilk, 1/4 cup hot sauce, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The buttermilk’s acidity will naturally tenderize the chicken, while the hot sauce and spices will penetrate deep into the meat, laying down a robust flavor base for our spicy chicken sandwich.
- Add the trimmed or pounded chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully submerged and coated. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but for the absolute best results, aim for an overnight marinade (8-12 hours). Do not skip this step! The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender, juicy, and flavorful your final spicy chicken sandwich will be. This long soak is truly what sets a good fried chicken sandwich apart from a phenomenal one.
Crafting the Creamy Homemade Sauce: The Perfect Counterpoint
While your chicken is marinating, let’s turn our attention to the star condiment: the Creamy Homemade Sauce. This sauce is designed to be the ultimate flavor enhancer for your Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce. It’s creamy, tangy, with just enough heat to complement the chicken without overpowering it, and it brings a beautiful balance to every bite.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup hot sauce, 2 tablespoons pickle juice, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar or honey, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and beautifully integrated.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Do you prefer it a little spicier? Add a dash more hot sauce. Want more tang? A tiny bit more pickle juice will do the trick. A touch more sweetness? Add a pinch more sugar. This is your chance to customize it to your personal preference.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, making it even more delicious. A chilled sauce is also delightful against the warm, crispy chicken. This creamy homemade sauce is so good, you might just want to put it on everything!
Setting Up the Breading Station: Layers of Crispiness
The magic of a perfectly crispy fried chicken sandwich lies in its breading. We’re aiming for a craggy, golden-brown crust that audibly crunches with every bite. The cornstarch and baking powder are key players here, contributing to that desirable airy crispness. This breading will encapsulate all the delicious flavors of our spicy chicken and ensure it stays incredibly moist inside.
- In a wide, shallow dish or pie plate, combine the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly until they are completely combined and there are no lumps. It’s important to make sure the spices are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
- Prepare your dredging station: You’ll want your marinated chicken (straight from the fridge), the dry flour mixture, and a clean plate or wire rack ready to hold the breaded chicken.
- Working with one piece of chicken at a time, remove it from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off briefly. Do not pat it dry; the wet marinade is essential for the breading to adhere properly.
- Place the chicken into the dry flour mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure every inch is coated. Really pack that flour mixture onto the chicken.
- Now, here’s my pro tip for an extra crispy crust: Gently lift the chicken, shake off any loose flour, and then dip it back into the marinade very briefly – just a quick dip to re-moisten the surface without washing off the initial flour layer.
- Immediately return the chicken to the dry flour mixture for a second coating. Press firmly again, ensuring a thick, shaggy layer of breading forms. This double-dredging technique creates those coveted craggy bits that become super crispy when fried.
- Place the breaded chicken on a clean plate or a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken pieces.
- Important: Let the breaded chicken rest at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes before frying. This allows the breading to hydrate and adhere firmly to the chicken, preventing it from falling off during frying. This resting period is a small step that makes a huge difference in the crispiness and integrity of your spicy chicken sandwich crust.
Frying the Chicken: Achieving Golden, Crispy Perfection
Frying can seem intimidating, but with a few key principles, you’ll be turning out perfectly golden, crispy chicken every time. The goal is to cook the chicken through without burning the crust, and achieving that requires precise temperature control. This is the heart of our Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce, where the magic truly happens.
- Pour the peanut, canola, or vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot, Dutch oven, or deep fryer. You need enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces, usually about 3-4 inches deep.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). A deep-fry thermometer is your best friend here. Do not guess the temperature! If the oil is too cold, the chicken will be greasy; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
- Once the oil is at the correct temperature, carefully lower 1-2 pieces of breaded chicken into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot! Overcrowding will drop the oil temperature significantly, leading to soggy, poorly cooked chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it’s deep golden brown, beautifully crispy, and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken pieces and the consistency of your oil temperature.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the oil using tongs and transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drain off and helps maintain the chicken’s crispiness. Immediately sprinkle a little extra salt over the hot chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes while you fry the remaining pieces. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains incredibly moist and tender.
- Keep an eye on your oil temperature between batches, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain that consistent 350°F (175°C). Patience and attention to detail here will result in the best fried chicken for your ultimate spicy chicken sandwich.
Assembling Your Ultimate Spicy Chicken Sandwich: The Grand Finale
With the chicken perfectly fried and the creamy homemade sauce chilled and ready, it’s time for the moment of truth: assembling your extraordinary Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce. This is where all your hard work comes together in one glorious bite.
- Take your brioche buns and lightly toast them. You can do this in a dry pan, under the broiler, or in a toaster. A lightly toasted bun adds texture and prevents it from getting soggy from the sauce and chicken juices.
- On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous layer of your delicious Creamy Homemade Sauce. Don’t be shy; this sauce is absolutely essential!
- Next, layer on a few pickle chips. The briny, tangy crunch of the pickles is a crucial component that perfectly cuts through the richness of the fried chicken and sauce.
- Place a hot, crispy piece of fried spicy chicken on top of the pickles.
- Add a few leaves of fresh lettuce or some shredded lettuce. If you’re using tomato slices, now’s the time to add them. The fresh greens and optional tomato add a welcome crispness and freshness.
- Finish with another dollop of that amazing creamy homemade sauce on the top bun, then gently place the top bun onto your stacked masterpiece.
- Serve your Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce immediately and prepare for an explosion of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers that incredible crunch, followed by juicy, spicy chicken, and the cooling, tangy embrace of the homemade sauce. This is truly a sandwich worth savoring!
Chef’s Notes & Variations for Your Spicy Chicken Sandwich:
- Spice Level Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in both the marinade and the breading to suit your heat preference. For a milder sandwich, you can reduce or omit the cayenne and use a less spicy hot sauce in the marinade and sauce. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of dried chili flakes to the breading or a few dashes of ghost pepper hot sauce to the creamy homemade sauce.
- Pickle Power: If you’re a pickle enthusiast, don’t hesitate to add extra pickle slices! The acidity and crunch are fantastic. You can even try different types of pickles, like spicy dill pickles, for an added kick.
- Toppings Galore: While I prefer a classic build, feel free to experiment with other toppings like coleslaw for a different texture, or thinly sliced red onion for a sharper bite. A slice of melty cheddar or pepper jack cheese could also be added to the hot chicken right after frying.
- Oil Management: If you’re frying multiple batches, the oil will inevitably get a bit dirty. You can strain the oil after cooling it down and reuse it for another fry, though its quality will diminish over time. Always discard oil safely once it’s no longer suitable for frying.
- Make Ahead Tips: The chicken can be marinated overnight. The creamy homemade sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the assembly much quicker on the day you plan to enjoy your spicy chicken sandwich.
Enjoy every glorious, crispy, juicy, and spicy bite of your homemade Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce!
After walking you through every exciting step, from breading that succulent chicken to whipping up that irresistible, velvety sauce, we’ve finally arrived at the heart of the matter: why this recipe isn’t just another dish, but truly an experience you simply must create in your own kitchen. I genuinely believe that once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about this particular creation. This isn’t just about assembling ingredients; it’s about crafting a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate. The perfect crunch of the expertly fried chicken, the tender and juicy interior, the exhilarating kick of spice that awakens your taste buds, and then, the hero of the hour – that utterly divine, creamy homemade sauce that brings everything into a harmonious, unforgettable balance. It’s a bold statement, but I promise, this isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an event, a culinary triumph that elevates a familiar comfort food into something truly extraordinary. Every element has been carefully considered to ensure maximum deliciousness, making this a recipe I’m incredibly proud to share with you, and one I can confidently say will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
I know you’re eager to dig in, but before you do, let’s talk about enhancing this already perfect meal and making it uniquely yours. A classic accompaniment for any magnificent sandwich is, of course, a generous serving of crispy, golden fries – perhaps even seasoned with a dash of paprika or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. But don’t stop there! To truly complete the experience, I highly recommend pairing your creation with a refreshingly tangy coleslaw. The crisp cabbage and the slightly sweet, acidic dressing will provide a wonderful counterpoint to the richness and spice of the sandwich, cleansing your palate and inviting you back for more. Don’t forget a side of crunchy dill pickles, too; their sharp, briny kick is just what you need to cut through the creamy sauce and spicy chicken. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette can also be a fantastic option, adding freshness and a vibrant pop of color to your plate. The beauty of this meal is its versatility, allowing you to tailor the sides to your mood or what you have on hand, ensuring every serving is exactly what you crave.
Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations
Beyond the classic pairings, feel empowered to get creative with your serving! This Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce is incredibly adaptable. Think about what goes inside: while I’ve provided the ultimate combination, feel free to experiment with additional toppings. A crisp piece of lettuce and a slice of ripe tomato can add a lovely freshness, while thinly sliced red onion might provide a delightful peppery bite. For those who love extra indulgence, a slice of melted cheese – perhaps sharp cheddar, zesty pepper jack, or mild provolone – can take the sandwich to another level of gooey deliciousness. Imagine the spicy chicken, the creamy sauce, and then that warm, melted cheese all coming together! And for the ultimate treat, a few strips of crispy, smoked bacon would add an incredible layer of savory depth and texture that is simply irresistible. Don’t be afraid to play with the buns either; while a classic brioche bun provides rich softness, a potato bun offers a delicate chew, and even a toasted ciabatta roll could add a wonderful crusty element. You could even swap out the protein entirely for a vegetarian twist; a perfectly grilled halloumi slice or a thick portobello mushroom cap could be a fantastic alternative, still allowing that incredible creamy sauce to shine. Want to adjust the spice level? Feel free to add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken marinade for an extra fiery kick, or temper it down by reducing the amount of chili in the sauce. The possibilities are truly endless, limited only by your imagination, and each variation promises a delightful new adventure for your taste buds.
Your Turn to Create and Share!
Now, it’s your moment to shine! I’ve poured my heart into crafting this recipe for you, and I am absolutely confident that you’ll fall in love with the process and, most importantly, the incredible flavors you’ll create. Don’t be intimidated by making the sauce from scratch; it’s genuinely simpler than you might think, and the payoff is immense – far superior to any store-bought alternative. This is your invitation to step into the kitchen, gather those ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to be both rewarding and utterly delicious. I truly believe that once you experience the magic of preparing and tasting your very own Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce, it will become a cherished recipe in your home. I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Please, don’t keep your triumphs to yourself. Share your photos, tell me about any creative twists you added, and let me know how it turned out in the comments below or on social media. Your feedback and personal stories are what truly inspire me and make this whole sharing process so incredibly rewarding. So go forth, cook with passion, and enjoy every single mouthwatering bite of this spectacular sandwich!
Spicy Chicken Sandwich With Creamy Homemade Sauce
Embark on a culinary adventure with this definitive recipe for a truly incredible Spicy Chicken Sandwich. Featuring incredibly juicy, spicy chicken with a crisp, golden-brown crust, all brought together by a tangy, cooling, and utterly delicious homemade sauce. This recipe elevates your sandwich game to legendary status, offering a gourmet experience cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5-2 lbs total) OR chicken breasts, butterflied/pounded
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2 cups buttermilk
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1/4 cup hot sauce (Louisiana-style preferred)
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup cornstarch
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1 tbsp baking powder
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp cayenne pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
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1 cup good quality mayonnaise
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1/4 cup hot sauce
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2 tbsp pickle juice (dill)
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1 tsp granulated sugar or honey
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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1/4 tsp smoked paprika
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Pinch of salt and black pepper to taste
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6-8 cups peanut, canola, or vegetable oil (for frying)
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4 brioche buns, split and lightly toasted
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1/2 cup dill pickle chips
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Green leaf or iceberg lettuce
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Tomato slices (optional)
Instructions
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Step 1
Trim chicken thighs or pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness. In a large bowl or bag, combine buttermilk, 1/4 cup hot sauce, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk well. Add chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally 8-12 hours (overnight). -
Step 2
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup hot sauce, 2 tbsp pickle juice, 1 tsp sugar or honey, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. -
Step 3
In a wide dish, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk thoroughly. Remove chicken from marinade (do not pat dry). Coat firmly in flour mixture. For extra crispiness, dip briefly back into marinade, then return to flour for a second coating, pressing firmly. Place breaded chicken on a wire rack and let rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before frying. -
Step 4
Heat 6-8 cups peanut, canola, or vegetable oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C), using a deep-fry thermometer. Carefully lower 1-2 pieces of breaded chicken into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, until deep golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove to a wire rack set over paper towels. Immediately sprinkle with a little extra salt. Let rest a few minutes while frying remaining pieces, maintaining oil temperature. -
Step 5
Lightly toast brioche buns. Spread a generous layer of Creamy Homemade Sauce on the bottom bun. Layer on pickle chips, then a hot, crispy fried chicken piece. Add lettuce and optional tomato slices. Add another dollop of sauce to the top bun, then place onto your stacked masterpiece. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
