Introduction
When it comes to creating a mouthwatering fried chicken sandwich, the combination of flavors, textures, and sauces can elevate the dish to something truly memorable. This recipe takes juicy, marinated chicken breasts and fries them to a golden crisp, then layers them with a spicy hot honey sauce, a zesty garlic mayo, and crisp lettuce on a toasted brioche bun. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to yield 4 fillets
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
½ cup honey
3 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Garlic Mayo:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, pressed or finely minced
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For the Breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Frying and Assembly:
4-6 cups vegetable oil for frying
4 brioche buns, toasted
Lettuce leaves
Pickles
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
Yield: 4 sandwiches
This indulgent fried chicken sandwich recipe is easy to follow and features a perfect blend of hot and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
In a saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the Garlic Mayo
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare the Breading
In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Bread the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and let rest for 10 minutes.
Fry the Chicken
In a deep fryer or large Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken fillets and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread garlic mayo on the bottom halves of the toasted brioche buns. Place a lettuce leaf on each, followed by a fried chicken fillet. Drizzle with hot honey sauce and top with pickles. Cover with the top halves of the buns.
Serve
Serve the sandwiches immediately, accompanied by your favorite sides.
Notes
Marination Time
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Oil Temperature
Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to achieve a crispy coating. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the sandwiches with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating the Chicken
Combine buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices to create a flavorful marinade. Submerge the chicken fillets and refrigerate to enhance tenderness and flavor.
Preparing the Hot Honey Sauce
Mix honey and hot sauce with spices in a saucepan over low heat. Simmer gently to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Making the Garlic Mayo
Combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Mix until well blended to create a creamy condiment with a zesty kick.
Preparing the Breading
Whisk together flour, cornstarch, and spices in a shallow dish. This mixture will create a light, crispy coating for the chicken.
Frying the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken to ensure an even golden-brown crust.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Spread garlic mayo on the toasted brioche buns, layer with lettuce, fried chicken, hot honey sauce, and pickles to create a tasty sandwich.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is recommended for the best flavor and tenderness.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but cooking times will vary. Adjust cooking time accordingly for bone-in cuts.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on the outside.
Can I make the hot honey sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the hot honey sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently before using.
Conclusion
This fried chicken sandwich, enhanced with hot honey sauce and garlic mayo, delivers an irresistible balance of flavors and textures. The spicy, crispy chicken paired with the sweetness of the honey sauce and the creaminess of the mayo creates a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy this dish with simple sides or elevate it with unique twists to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.
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