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Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients Recipe

5.1 from 20 reviews

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich recipe features juicy, marinated and perfectly fried chicken breasts nestled in toasted brioche buns, layered with fresh romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan, and a rich, homemade Caesar dressing. A flavorful take on a classic salad turned handheld delight, perfect for lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Caesar Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Assembly:

  • 4 brioche buns, split
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: Tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Dredging Station: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Whisk well to evenly distribute the spices.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat each breast thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure adherence. Place coated chicken on a wire rack to set.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), ideal for frying.
  5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  6. Drain the Chicken: Remove cooked chicken with a slotted spoon and transfer to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and keep crisp.
  7. Combine Dressing Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper until well combined.
  8. Emulsify the Dressing: Slowly drizzle olive oil into the dressing mixture while whisking constantly to create a smooth, emulsified Caesar dressing.
  9. Taste and Adjust Dressing: Sample the dressing and adjust seasoning as desired, adding more lemon juice or pepper if needed.
  10. Toast the Buns (Optional): Lightly toast the brioche bun halves to add texture and warmth.
  11. Spread the Dressing: Generously spread the Caesar dressing on both halves of each toasted bun.
  12. Add the Lettuce: Layer chopped romaine lettuce on the bottom bun to add crunch and freshness.
  13. Add the Chicken: Place a crispy, fried chicken breast atop the lettuce.
  14. Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
  15. Add Tomato (Optional): If using, add tomato slices on top of the cheese layer.
  16. Top with the Bun: Place the top bun on the sandwich to complete it.
  17. Serve Immediately: Serve the Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich right away while the chicken remains hot and crispy to enjoy the full flavor and texture combination.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) will enhance tenderness and flavor.
  • Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent for even frying and a crispy crust.
  • Use a thermometer to check chicken internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
  • The cayenne pepper is optional; adjust for desired spiciness.
  • To keep sandwiches from getting soggy, serve immediately after assembly.
  • Substitute gluten-free flour and cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
  • You can make the Caesar dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken sandwich, Caesar dressing, fried chicken, brioche buns, homemade dressing, chicken sandwich recipe