Fried chicken sandwiches have taken the culinary world by storm, captivating food lovers with their irresistible combination of crispy, juicy chicken and flavorful toppings. The Two Handed Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious testament to this popular trend. With a nod to the beloved Southern tradition of frying chicken to perfection, this recipe brings a delightful crunch and juicy tenderness to every bite. Whether you’re a fan of classic fried chicken or new to the crispy chicken sandwich craze, this recipe is a must-try for everyone.
Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering Two Handed Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a substitute)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sandwich:
- 4 brioche buns or your choice of sandwich buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickle slices
- Mayonnaise or your choice of sauce
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice) with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial for keeping the fried chicken crispy and juicy.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture:
- In a large shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
Frying the Chicken:
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Drain the Chicken:
- Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the fried chicken crispy and juicy.
Assembling the Sandwich:
- Prepare the Buns:
- Toast the brioche buns lightly on a skillet or in the oven for added texture.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread mayonnaise or your preferred sauce on both sides of the bun.
- Layer with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickle slices.
- Place the crispy fried chicken on top, and crown with the top bun.
Tips and Variations
- Variations:
- Experiment with different spices in the breading for a unique flavor profile.
- Add cheese slices or coleslaw for extra texture and taste.
- Sauce Ideas:
- Consider using a spicy aioli or honey mustard sauce for a flavorful twist.
- A tangy barbecue sauce can add a deliciously sweet and smoky dimension.
- Substitutions:
- For a lighter version, use grilled chicken instead of fried.
- Swap brioche buns for whole wheat or gluten-free options.
- Tips for Extra Crunch:
- Double-dip the chicken in the marinade and flour mixture for a thicker, crunchier coating.
- Maintain the oil temperature to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy chicken.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 sandwich):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
The Two Handed Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you enjoy them for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special occasion, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress. The crispy chicken, fresh toppings, and soft bun create a harmonious symphony of taste that is simply irresistible.
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