Can I Make a Spicy Chicken Sandwich Without Deep Frying?

Yes! While deep frying delivers the crispiest texture, you can use an air fryer or bake it for a healthier alternative. The air fryer method maintains crispiness while reducing oil, while baking keeps it lower in fat but slightly less crunchy.

What Bun Works Best for a Spicy Chicken Sandwich?

For the perfect Spicy Chicken Sandwich or spicy fried chicken burger, brioche buns are a top choice because of their slight sweetness and soft texture. Potato buns are another great option for a neutral flavor that lets the spicy chicken shine.

How Can I Make My Spicy Chicken Sandwich Extra Juicy?

To ensure your Spicy Chicken Sandwich is extra juicy, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours. Buttermilk helps break down proteins, resulting in a tender, flavorful bite. Also, using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts enhances juiciness.

Can I Make a Gluten-Free Spicy Chicken Sandwich?

Absolutely! Swap traditional flour for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to create a crispy coating. Also, use a gluten-free bun or wrap the chicken in lettuce for a low-carb, gluten-free option.

What Sauce Pairs Best with a Spicy Chicken Sandwich?

A Spicy Chicken Sandwich is best paired with a creamy, flavorful sauce. A mix of mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and honey creates a perfect balance of heat and tanginess.

Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Crispy, Juicy & 5-Min Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 cup buttermilk
1 tbsp hot sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
1 egg
1 tbsp hot sauce (for egg wash)
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp hot sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp honey (optional for balance)
½ tbsp lemon juice

For Assembly:

2 brioche or potato buns
4 pickles (sliced)
½ cup coleslaw (optional)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Submerge the chicken and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).

2️⃣ Prepare the Breading:

In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In another bowl, beat the egg with 1 tbsp hot sauce for extra flavor.

3️⃣ Bread the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
Dip in the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and coat again in flour for extra crunch.

4️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on a wire rack for maximum crispiness.

5️⃣ Make the Spicy Sauce:

Mix mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, honey, and lemon juice in a bowl.

6️⃣ Assemble the Sandwich:

Toast the buns lightly.
Spread spicy sauce on both sides.
Place crispy chicken on the bun.
Add pickles and coleslaw.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra spice, add more cayenne or drizzle hot sauce before serving.
Can be made in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or almond flour.

Author: Elian Cove
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American