Go Back
Homemade Best Fried Chicken Sandwich recipe photo

Best Fried Chicken Sandwich

This Best Fried Chicken Sandwich is a crispy, juicy delight! Perfectly seasoned chicken meets spicy mayo and crunchy toppings for a flavor explosion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 4 skinless and boneless chicken thighs and breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons sweet paprika (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (for coating)
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for coating)
For the Spicy Mayo:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon pickle juice
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
For Assembly:
  • 4 burger buns
  • 1 cup coleslaw
  • Sliced pickles
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Shallow dish
  • Frying pan or deep fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Serving platter

Method
 

Build Best Fried Chicken Sandwich Step by Step
  1. Start by placing the chicken thighs and breasts in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the buttermilk, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon of white pepper. Mix well to ensure all the chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until thoroughly combined. This seasoned flour will give the chicken its delicious crispy coating.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, pickle juice, and sriracha until smooth. This will add creaminess and a spicy kick to your sandwich.
  4. In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
  5. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour and set aside.
  6. Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil, a few pieces at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. To assemble your Best Fried Chicken Sandwich, spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on the bottom half of each burger bun. Place a piece of fried chicken on top, followed by a scoop of coleslaw and a few slices of pickles. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best flavor and texture, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • Maintain the oil temperature during frying for a crispy crust.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.