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Crispy Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich Recipe Easy Homemade at Home

crispy Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich recipe - featured image

This recipe recreates the iconic crispy and juicy Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich at home using a simple brine and pan-fry method for a perfect crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make four thin cutlets
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • Peanut oil or vegetable oil, enough for about 2 inches deep in skillet
  • 4 soft hamburger buns (brioche recommended)
  • 4 dill pickle slices
  • Optional: mayonnaise or your favorite sandwich spread

Instructions

  1. Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets about 1/2 inch thick. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine dill pickle juice, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until dissolved. Submerge chicken pieces in brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg until smooth. Set aside.
  4. In another bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk to blend.
  5. Pour peanut oil into skillet to about 2 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature.
  6. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry again. Dip each piece into wet mixture, then dredge thoroughly in dry breading, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, repeat dipping once more.
  7. Carefully place breaded chicken pieces into hot oil in batches. Fry 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust heat to maintain oil temperature.
  8. Transfer fried chicken to wire rack over baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest 5 minutes to keep crust crisp.
  9. Toast buns lightly if desired. Spread mayonnaise or preferred sauce on bottom bun, add fried chicken cutlet, top with dill pickle slices, and crown with top bun.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before breading to prevent breading from falling off. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for best crispiness. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let chicken rest on wire rack after frying to keep crust crisp. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond flour but expect a different texture. Optional double dip for extra crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, crispy chicken sandwich, homemade chicken sandwich, fried chicken, comfort food, quick dinner