It was the summer of ’98, and the county fair was in full swing. The smell of popcorn, farm animals, and something mysteriously delicious hung heavy in the air. I remember tugging on my mom’s hand, desperate to find the source of that incredible aroma.
That’s when I saw it: a towering *spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich*, glistening under the carnival lights. The vendor handed one over, and from the first bite, I was hooked. The crispy chicken, the sweet and spicy sauce – it was a symphony of flavors I’d never experienced before.
I’ve been chasing that perfect balance of heat and sweet ever since, and I think I’ve finally cracked the code with this recipe. It’s more than just a sandwich; it’s a memory, a feeling, a little bit of summer nostalgia in every bite. Now, if you’re in the mood for something equally comforting, but a bit different, check out this apple cider cupcakes recipe.
Why you’ll love this Spicy-Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich with Spicy Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich
- The crispy chicken is perfectly seasoned and juicy, making every bite a delight.
- The combination of honey and jalapeño creates a unique and unforgettable spicy sweet flavor profile.
- This spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich is easy to customize to your preferred level of heat.
- It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
- The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment.
- This sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 brioche buns, split
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Neutral oil, for frying (such as canola or vegetable)
Directions
Step 1
Spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich makes every moment feel comforting. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
Step 2
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3
Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, pressing to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.
For an extra crispy crust, double dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture.
Step 4
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
Step 5
Remove chicken from skillet and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Season immediately with a pinch of salt.
Placing the chicken on a wire rack helps to keep it crispy by allowing air to circulate around it.
Step 6
While chicken is resting, prepare the sauce by mixing mayonnaise and honey in a small bowl. Set aside.
Taste the honey-mayo sauce and adjust the amount of honey to your liking.
Step 7
Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread the honey-mayo sauce on both halves of each bun. Place lettuce (if using) on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese, the fried chicken breast, and jalapeño slices. Top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try using different types of cheese, like pepper jack for an extra kick or provolone for a milder flavor. You could also add other toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, pickles, or coleslaw. Experiment with different types of hot sauce in the marinade to control the level of heat in this spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich.
For a lighter version, try grilling the chicken instead of frying it. Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill over medium heat until cooked through. You can still use the honey-mayo sauce and jalapeño slices to maintain the signature flavor profile.
Consider making mini versions of this sandwich as appetizers for a party. Use smaller buns or slider rolls and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. These are always a hit!
Pairings
French fries are a classic pairing for any fried chicken sandwich. Season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika to complement the flavors of the sandwich. Sweet potato fries are another great option for a slightly healthier and sweeter side.
Coleslaw provides a cool and crunchy contrast to the spicy and rich flavors of the sandwich. A simple coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing works perfectly. Consider adding a touch of apple cider vinegar to the dressing for a tangy twist.
A refreshing side salad can also be a great accompaniment. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a good choice. Add some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion for extra flavor and texture.
Serving ideas
For a casual presentation, serve the spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich in a basket lined with parchment paper. This makes it easy to handle and adds a rustic touch. Include a side of your favorite dipping sauce for the fries or coleslaw.
If you’re serving this sandwich at a barbecue or picnic, consider wrapping each one individually in foil. This helps to keep them warm and prevents them from getting soggy. Label each sandwich with the ingredients so guests can easily choose their preferred option.
Elevate the presentation by serving the sandwich on a wooden board or platter. Arrange the fries, coleslaw, and other sides around the sandwich for a visually appealing display. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results, as microwaving can make the chicken soggy. The honey-mayo sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze leftover chicken, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
It’s best to store the sandwich components separately to prevent the buns from getting soggy. Assemble the sandwich just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Make-ahead
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender sandwich. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
The honey-mayo sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This saves time on the day you plan to serve the sandwiches.
Consider prepping all of the ingredients ahead of time, such as slicing the jalapeños and shredding the lettuce. This will make the assembly process much faster and easier.
Common mistakes when making Spicy-Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Overcrowding the pan: Overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring there’s enough space between each piece.
- Not using a thermometer: Using a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s cooked through. If it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly: Seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and other spices is essential for a flavorful sandwich. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasonings, both in the marinade and in the flour mixture.
- Using cold chicken: Make sure your chicken breasts are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from becoming dry.
- Skipping the wire rack: Placing the fried chicken on a wire rack after cooking allows excess oil to drain off and helps to keep the chicken crispy. Skipping this step can result in a soggy sandwich.
Final notes
This spicy sweet fried chicken sandwich is truly a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The combination of crispy chicken, sweet honey, and spicy jalapeño is simply irresistible. Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps – it’s all easier than it looks.
Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño or hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s completely customizable to your taste.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a sandwich that will blow your mind. I promise, you won’t regret it!
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- Apple cider cupcakes recipe
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- Creamy steak and potato soup
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Spicy-Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich
Crispy fried chicken gets a flavor upgrade with a fiery jalapeño kick and a drizzle of sweet honey. This Spicy-Sweet Fried Chicken Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 brioche buns, split
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Neutral oil, for frying (such as canola or vegetable)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, pressing to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from skillet and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Season immediately with a pinch of salt.
- While chicken is resting, prepare the sauce by mixing mayonnaise and honey in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread the honey-mayo sauce on both halves of each bun. Place lettuce (if using) on the bottom bun, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese, the fried chicken breast, and jalapeño slices. Top with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy chicken, double dredge it in the flour mixture. To reduce the heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeño. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results. Serve with french fries or coleslaw.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg