This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a delicious mix of crunchy chicken, fresh greens, and tasty Caesar dressing, all tucked between soft bread. It’s a bite of yum with every mouthful!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this sandwich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, plain yogurt or milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar makes a great substitute. Both give a nice tang and help tenderize the chicken.
All-Purpose Flour & Cornmeal: For a crunchy coating, all-purpose flour is key, but you can replace some with whole wheat flour if you prefer. Cornmeal adds texture; swap it with breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
Caesar Dressing: You can use store-bought Caesar dressing or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! A simple mix of mayo, lemon juice, garlic, and Parmesan can work wonders.
Brioche Buns: Brioche buns are soft and sweet, but any soft sandwich bun will work. Consider whole wheat or even gluten-free buns for dietary preferences.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is the goal! Here are some helpful steps to follow:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) in buttermilk. This step tenderizes and flavors the meat.
- When breading, make sure to press the flour mixture onto the chicken so it adheres well. This boosts crunchiness!
- Heat the oil properly before frying—too cool, and the chicken will absorb oil instead of frying. Use a thermometer if you have one; the oil should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry the chicken in batches if necessary. This keeps the temperature steady and ensures an even, crispy coating.
How to Make a Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to cook, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you have time, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Grab a medium bowl and mix the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the mixture, making sure they’re fully covered. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you want extra flavor, pop them in the fridge overnight.
2. Prepare the Breading:
While the chicken is marinating, take a separate bowl and combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it well; this will be the crunchy coating for your chicken!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in your flour mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. When done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil.
5. Prepare the Caesar Salad:
In another bowl, toss together the chopped Romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing until the lettuce is nicely coated. This is the fresh part of your delicious sandwich!
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Slice the brioche buns in half. On the bottom half of each bun, place a crispy piece of chicken. Top it generously with the dressed Romaine salad, then place the top half of the bun on top.
7. Serve:
Optional – for an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of your sandwiches, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your crispy chicken Caesar sandwich immediately for the best experience!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a minute or two longer to cook through than chicken breasts. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use as a Buttermilk Substitute?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens and curdles before using it in your marinade.
How Do I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Store any leftover chicken and Caesar salad separately in airtight containers. The bread can get soggy, so keep it in a dry place. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm the chicken in the oven or microwave and assemble your sandwich fresh!
Can I Make This Sandwich Spicier?
Definitely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your flour mixture for an extra kick. Alternatively, consider adding hot sauce to the Caesar dressing or on top of the sandwich for a flavor boost!
