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Crispy Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich Copycat Recipe

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

A homemade version of the iconic Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich featuring juicy, tender chicken with a crispy coating, perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 ounces each), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup pickle juice (for brining)
  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Peanut oil for frying (or vegetable oil if allergic)
  • 4 soft sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • Butter, softened (for toasting buns)
  • Optional: Dill pickle slices for topping

Instructions

  1. Brine the chicken breasts in a mixture of 1 cup pickle juice and 1 cup milk or buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Pound each breast to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  3. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl until smooth.
  5. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and flour dredging once more.
  6. Heat peanut oil in a deep-fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C), about 2 inches deep.
  7. Fry the chicken breasts in batches for 6-8 minutes each, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on a wire rack.
  8. Spread softened butter on the sandwich buns and toast in a skillet or oven until golden and slightly crisp.
  9. Assemble the sandwich by placing the fried chicken on the bottom bun, adding dill pickle slices if desired, and topping with the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfect crispiness. Double-dip chicken in egg and flour for a thicker crust. Drain fried chicken on a wire rack to keep crust crispy. For gluten-free, substitute flour and buns accordingly. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and skip butter or use dairy-free spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chick-fil-A, chicken sandwich, copycat recipe, crispy chicken, homemade chicken sandwich, fried chicken, comfort food