If you adore a sandwich that packs a punch and satisfies every craving, this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe is going to steal your heart right away. Imagine tender chicken breasts soaked in tangy buttermilk and hot sauce, then coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy crust. Layered with a creamy, herb-filled sauce and fresh lettuce, all sandwiched between buttery toasted buns, each bite bursts with vibrant textures and bold flavors. This is comfort food elevated, ideal for any occasion where you want to impress with something thrilling yet familiar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to build layers of taste, texture, and color that make the Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe truly unforgettable. Each step highlights how these simple elements come together harmoniously.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, juicy star of the dish that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while adding a subtle tang that sets the stage for the spice.
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): Adds the signature buffalo kick to both the marinade and the sauce.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a crispy coating that locks in moisture and adds delightful crunch.
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika: Brings a smoky depth that elevates the flavor beyond basic heat.
- 1 tbsp garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory note in the breading and sauce.
- 1 tbsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the coating mix.
- 1 tsp ground pepper: Offers a gentle sharpness for balance.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- Vegetable oil for frying: The medium that crisps the chicken to golden perfection without overpowering the taste.
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise: Serves as a creamy base for the luscious herb sauce.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness to complement the spicy chicken.
- 1/4 cup buttermilk: Lightens the sauce with a smooth, citrusy touch.
- 1/3 cup chopped parsley: Brings fresh herbal brightness and color.
- 1/4 cup chopped dill: Offers a fragrant, slightly tangy note that pairs beautifully with buffalo heat.
- 1/4 cup chopped chives: Adds a mild oniony crunch to brighten each bite.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Reinforces the savory undertones in the sauce.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Balances the herbs with a sweetness that complements spice.
- 1 tsp celery salt: Adds a classic buffalo wing seasoning twist for authenticity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning to tie all elements together.
- 1/2 cup salted butter: Melted for the sandwich buns to create a golden, buttery crust.
- 2/3 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce: Combined with butter to coat the fried chicken for that irresistible buffalo flavor.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper: Packs extra heat for those who like their sandwich with a serious kick.
- 4 potato buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold the sandwich together while adding tender texture.
- 1 tbsp salted butter: For toasting the buns perfectly to golden crispness.
- 2 cups lettuce, chopped: Adds a fresh, cool crunch that balances the spicy richness.
How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by combining the buttermilk and 1/4 cup of hot sauce in a bowl. Submerge the chicken breasts in this zingy bath and refrigerate for at least one hour. This marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with that unmistakable buffalo tang, which is the heart of this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
While the chicken marinates, mix the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground pepper, and salt in a shallow dish. This seasoned flour blend is what will give your chicken that perfect, flavorful crust that’s crispy yet not overpowering.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to create a hearty coating that clings well and promises a satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in juiciness and forms the iconic crispy exterior we crave in the Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe.
Step 5: Make the Herb Sauce
For the creamy sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and seasoning. This sauce not only cools down the fiery chicken but also adds a bright herbal lift that complements the buffalo spices.
Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Butter Sauce
Melt the 1/2 cup salted butter and stir in the Frank’s RedHot sauce and cayenne pepper. Toss the fried chicken in this vibrant buffalo butter sauce until each piece is fully coated in spicy, buttery goodness.
Step 7: Toast the Buns
Spread the remaining 1 tbsp of salted butter on the potato buns and toast them in a skillet until golden and crisp. This adds a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch that stands up to the sandwich’s bold fillings.
Step 8: Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread a generous amount of the herb sauce on the bottom bun, add a layer of chopped lettuce, place the buffalo chicken breast on top, and finish with the top bun. Every bite is a harmony of crispy, saucy, spicy, and fresh that makes this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe so addictive.
How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can take your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe to the next level. Consider adding thinly sliced pickles for a tangy crunch or extra chopped herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top. A few celery sticks on the side also echo the classic buffalo wing accompaniments.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crunchy coleslaw, crispy fries, or sweet potato wedges perfectly complement the sandwich. For a lighter option, a crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness. These sides bring contrasting textures and flavors, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the sandwiches on a wooden board with small bowls of extra buffalo sauce and the herb dip alongside for dipping. For a fun twist, cut the sandwiches in halves or thirds and secure with colorful toothpicks for easy sharing. Serving with a cold craft beer or sparkling lemonade elevates the experience to casual yet special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken and freshness of the creamy sauce when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to one month. Avoid freezing the herb sauce or buns, as their texture changes after thawing. When ready, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispness without drying out. Warm the buffalo butter sauce gently in the microwave or on the stove, then toss the chicken in it again before assembling. Toast fresh buns for the best sandwich experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, but remember they may require a slightly shorter frying time to cook through properly.
What if I don’t have buttermilk on hand?
No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by stirring 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into 1 1/2 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until slightly curdled.
How spicy is this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe?
The heat level is medium, thanks to the Frank’s RedHot sauce and cayenne pepper, but you can adjust it to your taste by adding more or less cayenne or choosing a milder hot sauce.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken as directed, place on a greased baking sheet, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The crust won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
How do I make the sandwich gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your buns are gluten-free. Many gluten-free flour blends work well to maintain a crispy crust in fried dishes like this.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe is pure joy on a bun, bringing together vibrant simple ingredients in a way that feels both special and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a weekend get-together, this sandwich hits all the right notes. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your new favorite comfort food classic.
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Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich features juicy, buttermilk-marinated chicken breasts coated in a spicy, seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. Topped with a creamy herb sauce, spicy buffalo butter, fresh lettuce, and served on toasted potato buns, this sandwich offers a delightful combination of heat, crunch, and rich flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.
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
- Vegetable oil for frying
Herb Sauce
- 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 Butter 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 bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge the chicken breasts in the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground pepper, and salt. This seasoned flour will create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), enough to submerge the chicken halfway for frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully fry the coated chicken breasts in the hot oil for about 7 minutes per side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Herb Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, chopped parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, and salt and pepper to taste. Chill until ready to use.
- Prepare the Buffalo Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Stir in Frank’s RedHot sauce and cayenne pepper, mixing well. Remove from heat and keep warm.
- Toast the Buns: Spread 1 tbsp salted butter on the cut sides of the potato buns. Toast them in a pan or on a griddle until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread herb sauce on the bottom bun, add a fried chicken breast, drizzle with buffalo butter sauce, add chopped lettuce, then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper to the buffalo butter sauce.
- Make sure oil temperature stays consistent to prevent greasy or undercooked chicken.
- The herb sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Potato buns provide a soft texture that complements the crispy chicken but can be substituted with brioche buns.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
