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The Ultimate Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich

A golden, ultra-crispy fried chicken sandwich with bold spice, creamy sauce, and tangy pickles on toasted brioche.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts butterflied
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Crispy Coating
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
Spicy Sauce
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Deep skillet
  • Wire rack
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Whisk buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, spices, salt, and pepper for coating.
  3. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, dip back into marinade, then coat again.
  4. Heat oil in skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
  5. Mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, honey, and spices for the sauce.
  6. Toast buns, spread sauce, add fried chicken and pickles, then assemble sandwiches.

Notes

Adjust cayenne and hot sauce to control heat. Best served immediately for maximum crispiness.