If you are on the lookout for a sandwich that packs a punch with bold flavors and irresistible textures, the Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This sandwich brings together juicy, perfectly fried chicken with a fiery kick, balanced beautifully by a luscious creamy sauce made from scratch. With every bite, you get crunchy, spicy, tangy, and creamy notes that make it an unforgettable comfort food experience. Whether you’re craving a satisfying lunch or a game-day winner, this recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are more than just a list; they are the building blocks of a truly spectacular sandwich. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the tender chicken marinated in spicy buttermilk, the crunchy seasoned coating, or the creamy zesty sauce that pulls everything together.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, sliced in half to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with subtle tanginess.
- Hot sauce: Adds the spicy heat that defines this sandwich.
- All-purpose flour: The base for the crunchy coating that gives the chicken its signature crisp texture.
- Cornstarch: Mixed with flour to create extra-crispy breading.
- Paprika: Provides mild smokiness and rich color in both the coating and sauce.
- Cayenne pepper: Elevates the heat level for those who like a fiery bite.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that’s essential for any great chicken seasoning.
- Black pepper and salt: Balances flavors perfectly throughout.
- Sesame seed buns: Soft, slightly nutty buns that hold all the sandwich’s goodness together.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the homemade sauce, lending smoothness and richness.
- Lemon juice or vinegar: Brings brightness and a slight tang to the sauce.
- Dill pickle slices: Offers a crunchy tartness that cuts through the richness.
- Leafy greens (optional): Adds freshness and a little crunch.
- Oil for frying: Choose canola, peanut, or vegetable oil for a clean fry and perfect crispiness.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by whisking together the buttermilk and hot sauce in a medium bowl. This spicy marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor. Add the halved chicken breasts and let them soak in this mixture for at least one hour, or ideally overnight, for maximum juiciness and heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mix
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This dry mix forms the crispy outer layer that delivers a mouthwatering crunch with each bite.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice or vinegar, paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl. This creamy homemade sauce is the perfect finishing touch, offering a subtle smoky flavor with a tangy twist. Chill it in the fridge until everything else is ready – trust me, the flavors only get better!
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat your chosen frying oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is key to achieving golden, crispy chicken that cooks evenly without absorbing too much oil.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure every inch is covered. This step is what creates that iconic, irresistible crust.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry each side for 4 to 6 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and turns a beautiful golden brown. Once cooked, transfer them to a wire rack to let the excess oil drain and keep the crust crispy.
Step 7: Toast the Buns
While the chicken is resting, toast your sesame seed buns until they are lightly golden. This adds another layer of texture and prevents the sauce from soaking into the bread too much.
Step 8: Assemble Your Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe
Spread a generous layer of the chilled creamy sauce on the bottom bun. Lay down a few dill pickle slices, add the crispy chicken, and top with leafy greens if you like. Add a final dollop of sauce before placing the top bun. Your sandwich is now ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Think fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A slice of ripe tomato or some thinly sliced red onions can ramp up the flavor and add juiciness that pairs wonderfully with the spicy chicken.
Side Dishes
This sandwich shines alongside crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a crunchy coleslaw. For a healthier option, pair it with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving the sandwich on a wooden board with the sauce in a small ramekin for dipping. You could also slice the sandwich in half diagonally to showcase its layers, making it extra inviting for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken separately from the buns and sauce to avoid sogginess. Wrap everything tightly in airtight containers and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried chicken pieces individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and maintains the coating’s texture. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing buns and sauce as their texture may degrade.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F until warmed through and re-crisped, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crunchy. Toast the buns fresh and spread the sauce just before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just slice them evenly for quick cooking, and adjust fry time as needed.
How spicy is this sandwich?
The spice level is flexible! The hot sauce and cayenne add a nice kick, but you can tone it down by reducing the cayenne powder or choosing a milder hot sauce.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the buns are gluten-free too.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Certainly! Coat the chicken as usual and bake on a wire rack at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. It won’t be as crispy but still delicious.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 1 hour is best for flavor; marinate overnight if possible to enhance tenderness and depth of flavor without compromising texture.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe is a game changer when you want a meal that excites your taste buds and comforts your soul. With its crunchy exterior, juicy interior, and perfectly balanced creamy sauce, it’s bound to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Don’t wait—put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a sandwich that’s every bit as satisfying as it sounds.
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Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious Spicy Chicken Sandwich featuring crispy, perfectly fried chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful buttermilk and hot sauce mixture, coated in a spicy seasoned flour blend, and topped with a creamy homemade sauce, pickles, and optional leafy greens on toasted sesame seed buns. This sandwich balances heat, creaminess, and crunch for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Marinade
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, sliced in half lengthwise)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
For the Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For Assembly
- 4 sesame seed buns
- 12 dill pickle slices
- 1 cup leafy greens (optional)
- Oil for frying (canola, peanut, or vegetable)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce until well combined. Add the sliced chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice (or vinegar), paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. Cover and chill the sauce until ready to use to let the flavors meld.
- Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, enough for deep frying, and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature for perfect frying.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of marinated chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature. Remove and drain on a wire rack to keep crispy.
- Toast the Buns: While the chicken fries, toast the sesame seed buns in a dry skillet or toaster until golden and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of the creamy sauce on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Layer each with 3 pickle slices, the fried chicken piece, optional leafy greens, and additional sauce if desired. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately while hot and crunchy.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the sandwich.
- Use a thermometer to ensure oil temperature is consistent for best frying results.
- Drain fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid sogginess.
- Leafy greens like lettuce or arugula add freshness but are optional.
- The homemade sauce can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.
