Crispy chicken sandwiches with fries are the perfect combination of crunchy, juicy chicken, soft toasted buns, and golden, seasoned fries. This homemade version rivals any fast-food favorite, offering a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s easy to customize.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Extra crispy, golden-brown chicken with a juicy interior
- Perfectly seasoned and customizable to your taste
- Homemade fries that are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside
- A satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings
- Easily adaptable with different toppings and sauces
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crispy Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Buttermilk
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper
- Eggs
- Oil for frying
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- Burger buns (brioche or sesame seed)
- Mayonnaise or preferred sauce
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Cheese slices (optional)
For the Fries:
- Russet potatoes, cut into fries
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
Directions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Marinate the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Make the Coating: In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat eggs.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture, dip into eggs, then coat again with flour.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Make the Fries:
- Prepare the Potatoes: Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes (optional, for extra crispiness). Drain and pat dry.
- Fry the Fries: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden. Drain and season with salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the buns and toast them in a pan.
- Add Toppings: Spread mayo on buns, then layer lettuce, tomato, pickles, and crispy chicken. Add cheese if desired.
- Serve: Pair with crispy fries and your favorite dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne and hot sauce to the marinade.
- Oven-Baked Option: Bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air-Fried Version: Air-fry chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Loaded Fries: Top fries with cheese, bacon, and ranch for an indulgent side.
- Sauce Options: Use honey mustard, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store chicken and fries separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze fried chicken for up to 2 months. Fries do not freeze well.
- Reheating: Reheat chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air-fry for 5 minutes. Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
FAQs
How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
Use cornstarch in the coating, double-dredge, and fry at the right temperature.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier and are a great option.
How do I keep the fries crispy?
Double-fry them—first at a lower temperature, then at a higher temperature for crispiness.
Can I bake the fries instead of frying?
Yes, toss with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for a high smoke point.
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, bread the chicken and refrigerate it before frying for up to 4 hours.
What’s the best cheese for the sandwich?
American, cheddar, or pepper jack cheese works great.
Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh?
Yes, but homemade fries taste better. Bake or fry according to package instructions.
How do I prevent the bun from getting soggy?
Toast the bun and add lettuce as a barrier between the sauce and the bread.
Can I use a different bread for the sandwich?
Yes, ciabatta, pretzel buns, or hoagie rolls work well.
Conclusion
Crispy chicken sandwiches with fries are a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home. With juicy fried chicken, buttery toasted buns, and crispy, seasoned fries, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces, and enjoy a delicious homemade version of a classic favorite!
Print
These Crispy Chicken Sandwiches are crunchy, juicy, and packed with flavor, served with a side of golden, seasoned fries for the ultimate fast-food experience at home!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying & Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sandwich
- 4 brioche buns
- 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
For the Fries
- 2 large potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add chicken and marinate for 1 hour.
- Prepare Breading: In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat & Fry: Dredge chicken in flour mixture, pressing to coat. Heat oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Bake Fries: Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes until crispy.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Toast buns, spread mayonnaise, add crispy chicken, cheese, lettuce, and pickles.
- Serve: Enjoy with crispy fries on the side!
Notes
- Use an air fryer for a healthier version.
- Add jalapeños for extra spice.
- Swap mayo for ranch or chipotle sauce.