Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe: Better Than Takeout!

If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating that mouthwatering, crispy fried chicken sandwich from your favorite fast-food joint—this recipe is your golden ticket. Juicy, crunchy, flavorful, and stacked high with pickles and creamy honey-sriracha mayo, this crispy fried chicken sandwich recipe is not only easy to make at home, but it’s honestly better than takeout.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a weekend game night, this sandwich hits the spot every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to build the best homemade fried chicken sandwich ever.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crispy Coating:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch!)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)

For the Honey-Sriracha Mayo:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp lemon juice

For Assembly:

• 4 brioche buns, lightly toasted
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced pickles (dill or bread & butter—your choice!)

How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches at Home

Step 1: Pound & Marinate the Chicken

Start by lightly pounding your chicken thighs to an even thickness for even cooking. In a bowl, combine buttermilk with spices and add the chicken. Cover and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the juiciest results.

Pro Tip: The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your chicken will be!

Step 2: Make the Crispy Coating

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and all your seasonings. Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t pat it dry—you want that moisture!) and dredge it well in the flour mixture. Press the flour in firmly for that signature craggy crunch.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden & Crispy

Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken in hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 6–7 minutes or until deeply golden and crispy.

Use a thermometer if possible—crispy on the outside, cooked through on the inside is the goal!

Step 4: Mix the Honey-Sriracha Mayo

While the chicken cools slightly, mix mayo, honey, sriracha, and a touch of lemon juice. This sweet-and-spicy sauce adds a flavor punch that takes your sandwich over the top.

Step 5: Assemble Like a Pro

Spread that honey-sriracha mayo generously on the toasted brioche buns. Add shredded lettuce, a few pickles, and top it with your freshly fried chicken thigh. Cap it off with the top bun—and dive in.

Serving Suggestions

Looking to round out the meal? Pair this easy fried chicken sandwich with pickles with:

• Crispy fries or sweet potato wedges
• Classic coleslaw
• Mac and cheese
• Pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist

Recipe Tips & Variations

• No buttermilk? Make your own: combine 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.
• Want it spicier? Add extra cayenne or use a hot sauce-based mayo.
• Prefer chicken breasts? Slice them in half lengthwise and follow the same steps.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fried chicken is best served fresh, but you can:

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for that signature crisp.

Share the Love!

Did you try this crispy fried chicken sandwich recipe? Tag me on Pinterest @bookletrecipes and use the hashtag #HomemadeChickenSandwich so I can see your delicious creation!

More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

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• The Best Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets
•  Buffalo Chicken Dip
• The Best Chicken Thigh Marinade