Recreate the classic spicy chicken sandwich at home with a delightful mix of spices and heat that will tantalize your taste buds! This sandwich is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick without sacrificing flavor or texture. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are seasoned and fried to crispy perfection, then nestled between buttery brioche buns. Add a layer of tangy pickles and cool it down with a dollop of creamy ranch or the iconic Chick-fil-A sauce for a delicious experience!
Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four pieces. Pound them gently to ensure even thickness.
In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and an egg. Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it's well-coated on all sides.
Fry the chicken in the hot oil, two pieces at a time, for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Lightly toast the brioche buns.
Assemble the sandwiches by placing a piece of fried chicken on the bottom bun, followed by a few pickle slices. Top with the other bun half.
Serve immediately with ranch dressing or Chick-fil-A sauce on the side for added flavor.