If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances fiery spice with irresistible crunch, this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe is going to be your new go-to comfort food. Imagine tender chicken breasts soaked in a tangy buttermilk and hot sauce marinade, coated in a smoky, garlicky flour blend, and fried to golden perfection, then drenched in a buttery buffalo sauce that brings a lively kick. Nestled in a buttery toasted potato bun with crisp lettuce and a dreamy herbed mayo, this sandwich delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every juicy bite. Get ready to make a sandwich that’s sure to impress everyone at your table, whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or just a craving that won’t quit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in creating the crunchy, spicy, and creamy layers that make this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe so unforgettable. From the tangy buttermilk soak to the vibrant herbs in the mayo, each component builds the complexity of flavor and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that’s juicy inside with a crispy coating outside.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderizes the chicken for maximum juiciness.
- Hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot): The signature heat that infuses the chicken and buffalo sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Creates the crunchy crust when seasoned and fried.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth to the coating mix.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Provide savory aroma and flavor layers.
- Salt and ground pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance every bite.
- Vegetable oil: For frying to crispy perfection.
- Mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk: Combined to make a creamy, tangy herb sauce that complements the heat.
- Parsley, dill, and chives: Fresh herbs that brighten the mayo dressing.
- Celery salt: Adds a subtle, classic buffalo flavor note.
- Salted butter: Used in both the buffalo sauce and toasting buns for rich flavor.
- Cayenne pepper: Gives an extra kick to the buffalo sauce.
- Potato buns: Soft but sturdy enough to hold all the delicious components.
- Chopped lettuce: Provides crisp freshness to balance the spicy chicken.
How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by whisking together buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl. This marinade will infuse the chicken breasts with flavor and keep them moist and tender during cooking. Soak the chicken in this spicy bath for at least one hour, but if you can, let it rest longer for deeper flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Mix the Flour Coating
While your chicken marinates, combine the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This flavorful flour blend will form the crispy crust that gives the sandwich its iconic crunch.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove each chicken breast from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press lightly so the coating sticks well, then set aside on a wire rack to rest briefly while you heat the oil. This step ensures an even, crunchy crust when fried.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry each chicken breast for about 6-8 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to keep them crispy and not greasy.
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
Melt salted butter in a small saucepan, then whisk in hot sauce and cayenne pepper. Warm until combined but not boiling. Toss the freshly fried chicken breasts in this luscious buffalo sauce, coating them evenly with spicy, buttery goodness.
Step 6: Prepare the Herbed Mayo
Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended to create a cooling, herbaceous sauce that contrasts perfectly with the heat of the chicken.
Step 7: Toast the Buns
Spread salted butter on the potato buns and toast them in a hot skillet or oven until golden and slightly crisp. This adds a lovely buttery flavor and ensures the buns hold up well to the juicy chicken and sauce.
Step 8: Assemble Your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Spread a generous layer of the herbed mayo on the bottom bun, top with fresh chopped lettuce, then place the buffalo-coated crispy chicken breast on top. Finish with the top bun, press gently, and your sandwich is ready to devour.
How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Add cool, crisp garnishes like sliced celery sticks or pickles on the side to complement the spice and add another layer of refreshing crunch. A few extra fresh herbs or a dash of blue cheese crumble can also elevate the flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crunchy French fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a crisp coleslaw make perfect companions to this flavorful sandwich. They balance the heat and add more satisfaction to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe open-faced with a drizzle of blue cheese dressing or wrap it in parchment paper for easy, on-the-go enjoyment. You can even slice the sandwich into smaller sliders for parties or game-day snacks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping components separate helps maintain the crispness of the chicken and freshness of the sauce when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried chicken breasts before saucing by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in freezer bags for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before tossing in buffalo sauce and reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chicken in a hot oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness. Warm the buffalo sauce gently on the stove and toss the chicken just before serving to keep that freshly coated taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving, but you may want to adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through without drying out.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? Is there a substitute?
You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the marinade for a similar tenderizing effect.
How spicy is this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe?
The heat level is moderately spicy thanks to the hot sauce and cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the amount to your preference, making it milder or hotter as you like.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a healthier option. Coat the chicken as usual and bake at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Can I prepare parts of this sandwich in advance?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken overnight, prepare the herb mayo a day ahead to enhance the flavors, and even toast the buns just before assembling for a quick meal anytime.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe is truly a labor of love that rewards you with bold flavors, delightful textures, and a memorable sandwich experience. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser that brings warmth, spice, and a touch of indulgence to your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite!
Print
Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture, coated with seasoned flour, and fried to golden perfection. It’s topped with a creamy herb-infused dressing and tossed in a flavorful buffalo sauce, all served on toasted potato buns with fresh lettuce for a deliciously satisfying sandwich experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
Seasoned Flour Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
Herb Dressing
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped dill
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp celery salt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 2/3 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
Assembly
- 4 potato buns
- 1 tbsp salted butter
- 2 cups lettuce, chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken breasts in the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground pepper, and salt to create a well-seasoned flour coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each breast thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to adhere well.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Herb Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and season with salt and pepper to taste until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt salted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in Frank’s RedHot sauce and cayenne pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to combine flavors.
- Toss Chicken in Buffalo Sauce: Place the fried chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the warm buffalo sauce over them, turning to coat each piece evenly.
- Toast the Buns: Spread a thin layer of salted butter on the cut sides of the potato buns. Toast them in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat until golden and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the herb dressing on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add chopped lettuce, then place the buffalo coated crispy chicken breast on top. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the buffalo sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illness.
- Buttermilk marinade not only adds flavor but helps tenderize the chicken.
- Toast the buns just before assembling to keep them crispy and prevent sogginess.
- The herb dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
