👨‍🍳 Chicken Sandwich Recipe: Easy & Tasty

Why spend $9 on a fast food spicy chicken sandwich when you can craft a tastier, healthier, and more budget-friendly version at home? Discover the secrets behind the best chicken sandwich recipes that blend the perfect balance of white and dark chicken meat, a zesty homemade sauce, and gourmet fix-ins like fresh dill, pickles, and walnuts. This recipe not only promises simplicity but also packs remarkable flavors, making it a go-to for quick family meals or impressive gatherings.

Key Takeaways

• The average retail price of a fast food spicy chicken sandwich is around $9.
• Our easy chicken sandwich recipe features white and dark chicken meat for optimal flavor.
• The homemade sauce is crafted from mayonnaise and sour cream, making it less greasy.
• Includes unique additions such as fresh dill, pickles, and walnuts for a gourmet appeal.
• This recipe is perfect for quick family meals or gatherings, offering both simplicity and deliciousness.

Introduction to the Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Chicken sandwiches have become a staple in many households due to their versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re creating a quick chicken sandwich for a weekday meal or a delicious chicken sandwich for a gathering, the options are endless.

This recipe emphasizes the use of chicken thighs over chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful bite. Boneless chicken thighs, ideally skin-on, are marinated in dill pickle brine to enhance tenderness and flavor. The brined chicken is then coated in buttermilk to help a thick layer of breading stick, contributed by a blend of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a mix of classic seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.

The choice of frying oil plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect crispy chicken. Safflower oil is suggested due to its high heat tolerance and neutral taste. For the buns, brioche or potato rolls are recommended to complement the rich flavors. Adding Kewpie mayonnaise, known for its creamy and tangy profile, along with shredded romaine lettuce and dill pickle slices, completes the sandwich.

The recipe offers variations such as Buffalo, Pimento cheese, Hot honey, Kimchi, and Reuben styles, each promising a unique twist. To ensure the best taste, it’s advised to enjoy the sandwich freshly cooked and reheating leftovers properly in an oven or toaster oven.

With these carefully selected ingredients and a focus on freshness, this chicken sandwich recipe promises to deliver an unparalleled culinary experience that rivals gourmet deli versions. Prepare it and savor the rich, robust flavors of a homemade delicious chicken sandwich that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Ingredients for a Delicious Chicken Sandwich

Creating a perfect grilled chicken sandwich or a classic chicken sandwich starts with gathering the right ingredients. This section will cover the essentials for the chicken, sauce, and the fix-ins to complement your sandwich.

Chicken

For this recipe, you will need 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, totaling about 1⅓ pounds. These should be pounded to an even ¼-inch thickness and cut in half. You can use either white or dark meat, depending on your preference. Brining the chicken, by mixing 2 cups of cold water with 2 tablespoons plus ¾ teaspoon of salt and 2 teaspoons of sugar, helps in seasoning the flesh well. If you’re short on time, store-bought roast chicken is a convenient alternative. However, for a more flavorful experience, homemade brined roast chicken is ideal.

Sauce

The sauce is crucial for adding flavor to your classic chicken sandwich. Our recommended blend consists of:

• ½ cup of mayonnaise (preferably whole egg for richness)
• 3 tablespoons of barbecue sauce
• 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard

This combination ensures a creamy, tangy taste that perfectly complements the chicken.

Sandwich Fix-ins

Adding fresh and crunchy fix-ins elevates your grilled chicken sandwich. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup of shredded iceberg lettuce for crunch
• Four (1/4-inch thick) slices of tomato for freshness
• 1/4 cup avocado, diced
• 1/2 large jalapeño, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, halved, to add a smoky flavor
• 1 cup of crushed ruffled potato chips for an extra crunch
• Pickles and celery for added tang

Don’t forget your buns! Opt for 4 soft white sesame burger buns to hold everything together and enhance the overall taste.

The Importance of Shredding Chicken Finely

In the realm of the best chicken sandwich recipes, finely shredded chicken plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired texture and flavor profile. This method ensures that the chicken melds seamlessly with the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency that is ideal for sandwiches.

Shredded chicken is highly versatile, making it suitable for wraps, salads, and of course, sandwiches. Chicken breast is recommended over leg meat for shredding, as the breast meat shreds more easily and uniformly. Different cooking methods can be employed, such as using a saucepan, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, with varying times:

• Smaller breasts: 10-15 minutes on the stove
• Larger breasts: 15-18 minutes on the stove
• Slow cooker (high heat): up to 2 hours (small), 2 hours 15 minutes (large)
• Instant Pot: Pressure Cook on high for 10 minutes, Natural Release for 5 minutes

After cooking, it is essential to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 65ºC / 149ºF using a meat thermometer. This ensures safety and the perfect juicy texture. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes post-cooking; this allows the juices to reabsorb, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

To achieve that finest shred, consider using forks or an electric whisk while the chicken is still warm. This is easier compared to shredding cold chicken. For those meal prepping, shredded chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, retaining its flavor and texture.

Finally, remember to utilize any leftover liquid to create a flavorful chicken stock, perfect for use in other best chicken sandwich recipes. Season the shredded chicken with spices like salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano for a personalized touch, and enjoy this versatile ingredient in a myriad of delicious ways.

Choosing the Right Bread for Your Sandwich

Choosing the right bread is pivotal for crafting the perfect delicious chicken sandwich. Your choice can enhance the overall texture and taste of the sandwich, providing a balanced experience. Participants predominantly favor softer bread varieties like wheat or white bread for easy consumption and to complement the creamy texture of the chicken filling.

Understanding different bread options can elevate your sandwich to new heights:

• Multigrain Ciabatta: Used for chicken sandwiches at La Rosa Chicken & Grill, this option adds nutritional benefits derived from multiple wholesome grains.
• Brioche Buns: Richer in taste due to extra eggs and butter, but take longer to prepare. They provide a delightful contrast to the sandwich’s savory fillings.
• Whole Wheat Wraps: A low-carb alternative packed with fiber and good carbs, ideal for those mindful of their carbohydrate intake.
• Classic Freshly Baked Rolls: Made of basic ingredients like yeast, sugar, eggs, and flour, these rolls pair exceptionally well with a delicious chicken sandwich.
• Whole Wheat Pita: Another low-carb option that offers a hearty structure and complements fresh vegetables and chicken.
• Spinach Wraps: Although generally made with refined grains, these wraps provide a unique flavor profile for adventurous eaters.

With many consumers inclined towards fresh, high-quality ingredients, opting for bread that complements and enhances your delicious chicken sandwich is essential. Bakers Delight is a recommended brand for those looking to experiment with quality bread.

Matching soft toppings with crustier bread or choosing mild-flavored bread to avoid overpowering other sandwich ingredients aids in achieving a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you prefer a classic chicken sandwich or a creative variation, selecting the right bread is indispensable for an exceptional culinary experience.

How to Make the Perfect Sauce

Creating the ideal sauce for your homemade chicken sandwich is essential to enhancing its flavor. A well-balanced blend of mayonnaise and sour cream serves as the base, providing a rich and creamy texture. Adding fresh dill and pickles elevates the sauce with refreshing and tangy notes, offering a gourmet touch to your easy chicken sandwich recipe.

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream

The foundation of this sauce is a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Mayonnaise: Use 1/2 cup (120ml) of high-quality mayonnaise. This creates a smooth, velvety texture and rich flavor.
• Sour Cream: Add 1/4 cup (60ml) of sour cream to balance the mayonnaise with a slight tanginess, making the sauce less dense.

Fresh Dill and Pickles

To infuse your sauce with fresh, vibrant flavors, include fresh dill and pickles. Here’s how:

• Fresh Dill: Finely chop a handful of fresh dill (about 1 cup/1 ounce). Dill adds a burst of herbaceous flavor that pairs well with the creamy base.
• Pickles: Dice three whole pickles finely. The pickles introduce a crunchy texture and tangy taste to the sauce, making it more dynamic.

Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl until well combined. Your sauce is now ready to complement your homemade chicken sandwich. This easy chicken sandwich recipe ensures a delectable experience with every bite, thanks to the perfect balance of richness and zest in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Chicken

For the best easy chicken sandwich recipe, start by marinating your boneless chicken thighs in a brine mixture for up to 24 hours. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Use 1 to 3 tablespoons of the brine mix for the batter consistency when you are ready to prepare the flour coating.

• Marinate chicken in a brine mixture for up to 24 hours.
• For optimal brine consistency, incorporate 1 to 3 tablespoons into the flour mixture.

Once marinated, pat the chicken dry and prepare for frying. Heat oil to between 350 – 375 degrees F, and fry the chicken for about 3 – 5 minutes per side until a golden-brown color is achieved. The chicken’s internal temperature should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Recommendation: Allow the chicken fillets to cool on a wire rack before assembling your sandwich. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

• Fry the chicken in oil at 350 – 375 degrees F.
• Fry each side for 3 – 5 minutes to get a golden-brown color.
• Check for an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature to confirm doneness. Once done, let the chicken cool on a wire rack before assembling your homemade chicken sandwich.

Types of buns recommended for the sandwich assembly include brioche or potato buns, which add both flavor and texture.

Finally, chop and combine the chicken with your preferred sauce and other filling ingredients. This creates a soft, creamy mixture perfect for any sandwich.

Cooking Methods for Chicken: Fried, Baked, or Grilled?

Deciding on the cooking method for your chicken can significantly impact the texture and flavor of your grilled chicken sandwich or homemade chicken sandwich. Let’s explore the popular methods: fried, baked, and grilled, and how each can provide a unique twist to your culinary creation.

Fried Chicken: Frying chicken results in a crispy, golden crust that many adore. For the best results, use skinless, boneless chicken breast or thighs, which are favored due to their ease of preparation and versatility. Plain or Panko breadcrumbs are often used, with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder added for enhanced flavor. A dark-colored roasting pan is recommended to ensure the chicken cooks evenly at 410°F (210°C). Explore a crispy oven-fried chicken recipe for a healthier take on this classic method.

Baked Chicken: Baking is an excellent option for a healthier yet equally delicious chicken sandwich. It’s easy to prepare, requiring less oil than frying. The skinless, boneless chicken breast remains the preferred choice, though thighs and drumsticks work well too. A simple blend of breadcrumbs and spices can deliver a flavorful and tender result. This baked spicy chicken sandwich recipe has received stellar ratings, highlighting its popularity among home cooks.

Grilled Chicken: For a smoky, charred flavor, grilling is the way to go. A grilled chicken sandwich is a summertime favorite, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender. The high heat of the grill ensures a quick cooking process that locks in moisture. Additionally, marinating the chicken beforehand can infuse it with extra flavors, making every bite succulent.

Each cooking method offers a distinct experience for your homemade chicken sandwich. Whether you prefer the crunch of fried chicken, the ease and health benefits of baking, or the smoky allure of grilling, there’s a perfect option for everyone. Reheating any of these options is simple: cook frozen pieces at 375°F for 20-30 minutes without thawing. For more variety, try freezing the breaded, unbaked chicken for up to three months, which provides flexibility for future meals.

Considering factors like prep time (15 minutes), cook time (1 hour), and total time (1 hour 15 minutes), choosing your method now becomes an exciting exploration of flavors and textures.

Please visit these links for more detailed recipes and methods: crispy oven-fried chicken and oven-fried chicken recipes.

Assembling Your Chicken Sandwich

The key to creating a delicious chicken sandwich lies in how you assemble it. With the right techniques, you can ensure the texture and flavor are perfectly balanced, making your meal both appetizing and visually appealing.

Butter the Bread

First, buttering the bread is essential for creating a barrier against sogginess. This step adds a subtle richness and helps prevent the sandwich from falling apart. Using a soft butter, spread an even layer across each slice of bread. This step is crucial when assembling either a quick chicken sandwich for lunch or a more elaborate version for dinner.

Spread the Filling

Next, spread the filling evenly. Start with a layer of your favorite sauce, such as mayonnaise or mustard, followed by the chicken, lettuce, tomato, and any other fix-ins like bacon or cheese. For an authentic taste, thinly slice the chicken off the bone rather than using deli cuts to avoid additional sodium. Secure your sandwich with toothpicks and use a sharp knife to cut it into triangles, ensuring a neat appearance.

A useful tip is to refrigerate the sandwich for a bit before slicing for cleaner cuts. This method is ideal if you want a delicious chicken sandwich with well-defined layers. Whether you’re preparing a quick chicken sandwich or an elaborate meal, these simple steps will elevate your creation.

Healthy Chicken Sandwich Recipe Variations

When crafting a healthy chicken sandwich recipe, there are numerous variations and substitutions that can enhance the nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor. The original recipe, dated June 2019, offers a comprehensive array of ingredients and instructions to ensure the best possible results. Here’s how to make your sandwich healthier while maintaining its deliciousness.

• Lower-Fat Mayonnaise: Using a lower-fat or light mayonnaise can reduce the overall calorie and fat content of your sandwich.
• Greek Yogurt: Replacing sour cream or mayo with Greek yogurt enhances the protein content while cutting down the fat.
• Whole-Grain Bread: Opting for whole-grain bread instead of white bread increases fiber, making your sandwich more filling and nutritious.
• Incorporate Greens: Adding a variety of greens such as spinach, arugula, or kale can boost the sandwich’s vitamin and mineral content.

The original recipe includes a variety of preparation and cooking methods, allowing for healthier adjustments. For instance, the use of 6 boneless chicken breasts ensures a lean protein source, while whole grain flour and fresh thyme add nutritional value. By substituting ingredients like unsalted butter with healthier options or omitting optional maple syrup, you can create a lighter, yet equally satisfying, healthy chicken sandwich recipe.

Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Flavor

To elevate the taste of your delicious chicken sandwich, several expert tips can be employed. Not only do they add exciting dimensions to the flavor profile, but they also enhance texture and presentation. Here are essential tips and tricks for the best chicken sandwich recipes.

Adding Nuts for Texture

Incorporating nuts can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. Consider using cashews, macadamia nuts, or pecans to achieve the perfect texture in your chicken sandwich. These nuts are an excellent substitute when looking for alternative ingredients. According to the latest update on best chicken sandwich recipes, nuts bring a unique twist that complements the softness of the bread and the juiciness of the chicken. You could also experiment with different types of pickles or even capers to boost the tanginess and add more complexity.

Using Different Spices

Experimenting with various spices is key to crafting truly unforgettable, delicious chicken sandwich recipes. Using a blend of garlic and onion powders can enhance the flavor of your sauce. Additionally, season the chicken breasts the night before using ingredients like kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika for a more flavorful outcome. S&W, Kewpie, and Hellman’s are recommended brands for whole egg mayonnaise to mix with your spices for a rich blend. For a taste reminiscent of fast-food favorites, try incorporating honey BBQ sauce as outlined in delicious chicken sandwich.

Here’s how you can further boost your seasoning game:

1. Seasoned flour: prepare it in advance to save time.
2. Use a cast-iron pan for frying to add a unique flavor and consistency.
3. Consider substituting chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for added tenderness.

“The homemade chicken sandwich surpasses other versions tried, including those made by chefs,” one reviewer noted, emphasizing the exceptional flavor profile.

On average, prepping the chicken sandwich takes about 25 minutes, and with the above tricks, you’re guaranteed to transform this classic into a gourmet delight. For more innovative ideas, check out another one of the best chicken sandwich recipes that received stellar ratings from 183 commenters.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

When it comes to an easy chicken sandwich recipe, proper storage and reheating are crucial to maintain flavor and texture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, chicken fillets can be frozen for up to two months in an airtight container. Keep in mind to avoid freezing the entire sandwich to preserve the bread’s texture.

For reheating, avoid using the microwave as it tends to make the chicken lose its crispiness. Instead, follow these simple steps:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the leftover sandwiches on a baking sheet.
• Warm through for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

For crispy outcomes, reheating the fried chicken in an air fryer is also an excellent option.

Extra chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen in an airtight bag, ensuring you have a bit of convenience while making this easy chicken sandwich recipe cost-effective and delicious.

Why This Chicken Sandwich Recipe is Perfect for Gatherings

The appeal of this classic chicken sandwich lies in its exceptional texture and flavorful profile, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The balance of crispy, juicy chicken breasts paired with a tangy mayo sauce delivers a delightful culinary experience that guests will love.

One of the main reasons this recipe stands out among the best chicken sandwich recipes is its easy scalability. The recipe, which yields 4 sandwiches, can be effortlessly multiplied to accommodate a larger group. With 2 large chicken breasts sliced into 4 thin cutlets, marinated for enhanced flavor, and breaded with a seasoned mixture, the preparation remains straightforward even for intermediate cooks.

This recipe also excels in convenience. Marinating the chicken overnight allows the cook to get ahead of the preparation, making it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and cookouts. The ability to fry the chicken at around 350 degrees ensures each piece is perfectly crispy in just 4-6 minutes per side. Organizing a large event becomes simpler with this recipe as the fried chicken can be kept warm in the oven while finishing additional batches.

Add to this the versatility of the sandwich. Customizable toppings such as dill pickle chips, lettuce, tomato, and cheeses like American, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack provide ample ways to satisfy different tastes. For extra indulgence, consider adding bacon or experimenting with spice levels using cayenne powder or hot sauce.

Not only is this classic chicken sandwich appealing and versatile, but leftovers can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or Air Fryer, maintaining their crispiness and flavor. This makes it one of the best chicken sandwich recipes for ensuring your gathering remains stress-free and enjoyable.

Overall, the texture, flavor, and practicality of this chicken sandwich recipe make it an ideal choice for any social event, providing a satisfying meal that can cater to various preferences effortlessly.

Conclusion

From its crispy, grilled chicken cutlets to the rich, balanced layers of pesto, provolone, and balsamic glaze, the featured chicken sandwich recipe holds a world of flavor and versatility. Whether you opt for a homemade chicken sandwich or a quick store-bought solution, the ingredients come together to offer a delightful meal suitable for any occasion.

The flexibility of cooking methods ensures that anyone can prepare this grilled chicken sandwich, whether using a panini press, grill pan, or oven. Additionally, serving it with a side salad not only complements the flavors but enhances the overall dining experience, making it a well-rounded option for both casual dinners and special gatherings.

We encourage you to try out this exceptional recipe and make it your own. Share your creations and experiences, and let this homemade chicken sandwich become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The blend of fresh and accessible ingredients ensures it remains a go-to favorite for every household.