Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle and pop of frying chicken fill the air, promising something irresistibly delicious coming soon. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food, let me introduce you to my Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich, a satisfying and flavorful dish that truly stands out. This recipe marries tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy, golden exterior, perfectly complemented by a homemade spicy aioli and crisp pickles. Not only is it simple to whip up, but it’s also gluten-free friendly, making it a delightful crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be dreaming of this sandwich long after the last crumb is gone. Are you ready to discover the secret to your new favorite fried chicken sandwich? Why is this the best fried chicken sandwich? Irresistible Flavor: Each bite of this sandwich bursts with the zest of the spicy aioli, enhancing the tender, juicy chicken. Crispy Perfection: The buttermilk marinade ensures a crunchy golden coating, making it hard to resist. Gluten-Free Friendly: Enjoy this delicious treat without worry, as it’s easy to adapt for gluten-sensitive diets! Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this up on any weeknight. Customizable Delight: Personalize your sandwich with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or even kimchi for an extra kick! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or brunch gatherings, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. Don’t forget to check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Cheesy Garlic Chicken for more delicious options! Fried Chicken Sandwich Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs provide maximum juiciness; swap for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Buttermilk – This ingredient acts as a tenderizer and helps the crispy coating adhere; substitute with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar for a similar effect. Hot Sauce – Adds the perfect spice to the marinade; choose your favorite brand and adjust quantity based on your heat preference. Garlic Powder – A handy flavor booster; fresh garlic can replace it, but might change the texture slightly. Onion Powder – Complements the garlic beautifully; feel free to omit if you don’t have any on hand. Paprika – Enhances color and adds a mild flavor; try smoked paprika for a deeper taste. Sugar – Balances the flavors beautifully in the marinade; honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes. Fine Sea Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust these to suit your taste. For the Coating Potato Starch – Creates an outstandingly light and crisp coating; you can also use cornstarch or all-purpose flour if needed. For the Spicy Aioli Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the aioli; opting for homemade will enhance freshness! Garlic Cloves – Intensify the garlic flavor; consider black garlic for added sweetness. Balsamic Glaze or Vinegar – Provides the right acidity for the aioli; vinegar acts as a suitable alternative. Whole Grain Mustard – Adds tang and depth; substitute with Dijon mustard if it’s what you have. For Assembling Brioche Burger Buns – Wonderfully buttery and soft, ensuring the best sandwich experience; go for gluten-free buns or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Pickles – Add a delightful crunch and touch of acidity; spicy pickles can elevate the flavor profile! Optional Vegetables – Lettuce, tomatoes, or cheese to personalize your delicious fried chicken sandwich further. Dive into this vibrant, crispy fried chicken sandwich adventure, and savor how simple ingredients can transform into something remarkably delicious! Enjoy your cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a ziplock bag, combine your chicken thighs with buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate overnight to ensure deep flavor penetration and optimal tenderness, allowing the buttermilk magic to work wonders for your fried chicken sandwich. Step 2: Prepare Dredging Station Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and set up your dredging station. Place a generous amount of potato starch on a large plate, ensuring it’s spread evenly. Separate the leftover marinade into a bowl, as you’ll use it to coat the chicken just before frying. This will create that perfect crispiness for your fried chicken sandwich. Step 3: Coat Chicken Dip each marinated chicken thigh into the reserved marinade, letting any excess drip off. Next, dredge the chicken in the potato starch, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated—aim for a rough surface as this will enhance the crunch when fried. This step is crucial for achieving the crispiness that makes the buttermilk marinated crispy fried chicken sandwich so irresistible. Step 4: Heat Oil In a deep, heavy pot or a deep fryer, heat your frying oil to 375°F (190°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken thighs. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small pinch of potato starch into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go! This temperature will ensure a crispy, golden exterior for your fried chicken sandwich. Step 5: Fry Chicken Carefully lower the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), ensuring your buttermilk marinated crispy fried chicken is cooked through and juicy. Step 6: Drain Chicken Once cooked, remove the fried chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and carefully place it on a wire rack. This allows excess oil to drain off while helping maintain that crispy texture. If you want to keep them warm, place the rack in a low-temperature oven while you finish frying the rest. Step 7: Make Aioli In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic cloves, balsamic glaze, and whole grain mustard. Using an immersion blender or food processor, blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to your taste, and refrigerate until ready to use. This spicy aioli will add a delightful kick to your fried chicken sandwich. Step 8: Assemble Sandwich Toast your brioche buns until golden brown for a perfect finishing touch. Spread a layer of the homemade spicy aioli on both sides of the bun. Layer in the crispy fried chicken, followed by pickles and any optional toppings like lettuce or tomatoes. Your Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich is now ready to be devoured! Fried Chicken Sandwich Variations Feel free to get creative and make this fried chicken sandwich uniquely yours with these simple twists! Gluten-Free: Substitute the brioche buns with gluten-free buns or wrap in lettuce leaves for a low-carb delight. Enjoy the same crispy goodness without the gluten! Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a swirl of sriracha to your spicy aioli for extra heat. This zesty addition will ignite your taste buds, making each bite a flavorful adventure. BBQ Flavor: Swap out the spicy aioli for your favorite BBQ sauce to create a smoky twist. Slathering BBQ sauce not only adds sweetness but perfectly balances the crunch of the chicken. Herbaceous Touch: Mix fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the aioli for a fresh flavor boost. This bright note will elevate the whole sandwich, making it feel gourmet. Cheesy Goodness: Melt cheddar or pepper jack cheese on the chicken right after it comes out of the fryer for a gooey delight. The melty cheese adds richness that complements the crispy exterior beautifully. Asian Infusion: Top the sandwich with pickled vegetables and a drizzle of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. This vibrant combination gives your sandwich an exciting flavor profile reminiscent of summer rolls. Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour instead of potato starch for the crispy coating and serve the chicken on a bed of greens. This low-carb option still delivers on crunch and flavor without the carbs. For more delightful twists, don’t miss out on my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake or the irresistible Keto Fried Sandwiches. Enjoy your culinary adventure! What to Serve with Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich? Pair your scrumptious sandwich with delightful sides and drinks to create a full meal experience that sings with flavor. Crispy French Fries: The perfect crunchy accompaniment! Their salty goodness complements the deep-fried chicken beautifully, creating a classic combo. Creamy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a delightful crunch and a touch of creaminess that contrasts the crispy chicken, balancing the meal perfectly. Spicy Potato Wedges: A little kick in the wedges enhances the sandwich’s flavors. Bake or fry them for that crispy edge that everyone loves! Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed in olive oil with garlic, these bright green beans add a fresh, vibrant element to your plate, lightening up the rich sandwich. Cucumber Salad: A zesty cucumber salad brings a refreshing crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, keeping your palate excited. Root Beer Float: The nostalgic sweetness of a root beer float invites joy. Its creamy, fizzy goodness pairs beautifully, offering a delightful contrast after every bite. Expert Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Sandwich Perfect Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step, as the buttermilk works magic! Dredging Don’ts: Avoid over-coating your chicken with starch. Aim for a rough texture rather than a thick layer, which helps achieve that delightful crispiness. Oil Temperature: Always check the oil temperature before frying. Using too cool oil results in greasy chicken; too hot can burn the coating. Drain Properly: Allow your chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying, not on paper towels, to keep the exterior crispy and airy. Play with Spices: Don’t hesitate to customize your spicy aioli! Add extra spices or herbs to match your flavor preference, enhancing your fried chicken sandwich experience. Leftover Love: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best texture later. Enjoy that crispy goodness again! Make Ahead Options These Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic meal prep solution, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to infuse deeply. Additionally, the spicy aioli can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, just dredge and fry the chicken as directed; it will be just as delicious and crispy! This efficient prep not only lightens your cooking load but ensures you can have a homemade feast without the hassle. How to Store and Freeze Fried Chicken Sandwich Fridge: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge; it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness. Freezer: If you’ve got extra fried chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results. Reheating: To revive crispy fried chicken, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps retain that crunchy exterior and juicy inside, just like when first made. Sandwich Assembly: If you’ve assembled your fried chicken sandwich, enjoy it immediately for the best texture, but unassembled components can be stored separately as mentioned above! Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs How should I select my chicken thighs? Absolutely! When choosing chicken thighs, look for bone-in, skinless options as they provide the juiciest results. Aim for thighs that are plump and free of any dark spots or discoloration. If you prefer a leaner option, you can swap them out for chicken breasts, though this may slightly alter the texture and flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken? Very! Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps to keep it fresh and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to retain that crispy goodness. Can I freeze my fried chicken? Of course! To freeze your fried chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It should hold up well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results, keeping that juiciness intact. What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying? Oh no! If your chicken isn’t coming out crispy, check a few things. Ensure that your oil is hot enough (375°F or 190°C) before frying, as too cool oil can lead to a greasy texture. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pot—fry in smaller batches to maintain the temperature. Lastly, make sure the chicken is well-coated with potato starch for a good crunch! Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! This Buttermilk Marinated Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich is gluten-free friendly. Use gluten-free buns or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option, and check that your potato starch doesn’t contain gluten. Feel free to customize toppings while keeping gluten considerations in mind for a delicious, accommodating meal. How can I enhance the flavor of the spicy aioli? Very simply! To truly kick up the flavor of your spicy aioli, consider adding some zesty elements. Try mixing in dried herbs like dill or chives, or a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the aioli and tie all the flavors together beautifully. Enjoy your creation! Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Buttermilk Magic Experience the ultimate Fried Chicken Sandwich with this crispy, juicy delight featuring homemade spicy aioli and pickles. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 sandwichesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skinless for maximum juiciness2 cups Buttermilk Can substitute with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar2 tablespoons Hot Sauce Adjust based on heat preference1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Or use fresh garlic1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika recommended1 teaspoon Sugar Can substitute with honey or maple syrup1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt1/2 teaspoon Ground Black PepperFor the Coating1 cup Potato Starch Can substitute with cornstarch or all-purpose flourFor the Spicy Aioli1 cup Mayonnaise Homemade enhances freshness2 cloves Garlic Cloves Can use black garlic for sweetness1 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze or Vinegar Vinegar works as a substitute1 tablespoon Whole Grain Mustard Can substitute with Dijon mustardFor Assembling4 pieces Brioche Burger Buns Gluten-free or lettuce leaves for low-carb option1 cup Pickles Spicy pickles recommendedOptional Vegetables Lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, etc. Equipment Deep FryerLarge PlateZiplock BagBowlsWire RackImmersion Blender Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsMarinate Chicken: In a ziplock bag, combine chicken thighs with buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sugar, salt, and pepper. Seal and refrigerate overnight.Prepare Dredging Station: Set up your dredging station with potato starch on a plate and separate the leftover marinade in a bowl.Coat Chicken: Dip marinated chicken in reserved marinade, then dredge in potato starch, ensuring a rough coating.Heat Oil: Heat frying oil to 375°F (190°C). Test with a pinch of potato starch; it should sizzle.Fry Chicken: Fry coated chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).Drain Chicken: Remove chicken using a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.Make Aioli: Blend mayonnaise, garlic, balsamic glaze, and mustard until smooth. Season to taste and refrigerate.Assemble Sandwich: Toast brioche buns, spread aioli, add fried chicken, pickles, and optional toppings. Nutrition Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, follow the marinating times and do not rush the dredging process. Experiment with aioli flavors for a personalized touch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
