Extra-Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches feature juicy, seasoned chicken thighs coated in a flavorful blend of spices, served on a soft bun with tangy pickles and fresh toppings for a satisfying and crunchy meal.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup dill pickle brine
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For assembling the sandwich:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Mayonnaise
- Dill pickles
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk and dill pickle brine. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to around 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Carefully place the coated chicken thighs in the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to fry the chicken in batches.
- Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- To assemble the sandwich, spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Place a fried chicken thigh on top of the mayo, followed by dill pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices. Add additional condiments or toppings of your choice.
- Finally, place the top half of the bun on the sandwich, press lightly to secure all the ingredients, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Extra-Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches!
Wine Pairing
When it comes to pairing wines with this flavorful dish, you’ll want to consider wines that can complement the savory and crunchy elements while providing a refreshing contrast. Here are some wine recommendations for fried chicken sandwiches:
- Sparkling Wine: A dry sparkling wine, such as Champagne or Prosecco, can be a delightful pairing. The bubbles and acidity help cleanse the palate and cut through the richness of the fried chicken. The toasty and yeasty notes in Champagne can also add complexity to the pairing.
- Rosé: A dry rosé wine offers a versatile option for fried chicken sandwiches. Look for a rosé with good acidity and fruity flavors. The wine’s refreshing and vibrant character can complement the crispy texture of the chicken and provide a delightful contrast.
- Riesling: If you prefer white wine, consider a slightly off-dry Riesling. The wine’s touch of sweetness can balance the saltiness of the fried chicken, while the vibrant acidity and citrus flavors can uplift the overall experience.
- Zinfandel: For a red wine option, Zinfandel can be a fantastic choice. Look for a medium-bodied Zinfandel with good fruit concentration and balanced acidity. The wine’s ripe fruit flavors, peppery notes, and moderate tannins can stand up to the bold flavors of the fried chicken.
- Pale Ale or IPA: If you’re open to beer pairings, a crisp and hoppy pale ale or IPA can be a great match for fried chicken sandwiches. The beer’s bitterness and carbonation can refresh the palate and complement the crispy and savory qualities of the dish.