Name: Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying; 4 brioche buns, toasted; ½ cup sliced dill pickles; ¼ cup mayonnaise

Facebook

Hey y'all! If you love biting into a crunchy, juicy sandwich loaded with bold flavors and tangy pickles, you’re in for a real treat. This Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles is everything a comfort classic should be: golden, savory, and totally crave-worthy. It's perfect for family lunches, backyard get-togethers, or just a treat-yourself kind of weekend. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Ultra-crispy chicken with a juicy, tender interior in every single bite.
Quick to prepare and ideal for casual meals or entertaining guests.

Pickles add the perfect tangy crunch to balance the savory flavors.
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sauces.
Homemade makes it fresher, healthier, and tastier than takeout!

Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying (about 3 cups)
4 brioche hamburger buns

8-12 dill pickle chips or slices
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

How to Make the Best Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create 4 thin fillets. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness (about ½ inch).

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken fillets, making sure they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours for extra tenderness).

Step 3: Prepare the Dredge

In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Set aside on a rack for 10 minutes—this helps create that signature crispy crust.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, fry chicken fillets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C). Drain on a wire rack.

Step 6: Assemble the Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Toast the brioche buns lightly. Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, then spread on each bun. Place a crispy chicken fillet on the bottom half, top with 2-3 pickle slices, and finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy every crunchy, tangy bite!

Notes for the Perfect Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and maximum juiciness.
Letting the dredged chicken rest before frying helps the coating set—don’t skip this step! Read more about fried chicken science.
Use a thermometer to keep your oil at the right temperature for even crispiness.

Variations: Make Your Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles Your Own

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the dredge and a spicy mayo for extra heat.
Buttermilk Ranch Twist: Swap the mayo/mustard spread for ranch dressing.
Slaw Topping: Add a crunchy coleslaw for extra texture and flavor.

Required Equipment for Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Deep-fry or candy thermometer
Wire rack

Mixing bowls
Tongs

Storage Instructions for Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Store leftover fried chicken (unassembled) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. Assembled sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep the components separate for quick assembly later.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a tangy coleslaw.
Pair with a cold lager or sparkling lemonade for extra refreshment.
Complete the meal with a side of classic macaroni and cheese.

Pro Tips for the Ultimate Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Don’t overcrowd your pan—fry in batches so each piece stays crisp (learn more about deep-frying techniques).
For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
Use high-quality pickles for the best flavor punch.

FAQ: Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles

Can I make the fried chicken ahead of time?: Yes! Fry the chicken in advance and reheat in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to keep it crispy before assembling the sandwiches.
What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, peanut, or canola oil for the crispiest results.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful—just adjust frying time to ensure they’re cooked through.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes (includes marinating)

Facebook
Twitter
class="essb_item essb_link_pinterest nolightbox essb_link_svg_icon"> Pinterest
LinkedIn

Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich with Pickles