If you’re looking for a mouthwatering meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress, look no further than the Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich. It combines juicy, crispy chicken with a zesty kick from Buffalo sauce, all nestled in a fluffy bun. This sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the comforting crunch of fried chicken with the boldness of tangy sauce. Perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is a surefire hit at any gathering. It’s the perfect blend of crispy and spicy, with the cooling effect of ranch or blue cheese dressing that balances the heat beautifully. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging yourself, this sandwich is versatile enough to please everyone. The simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly fun to eat. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings!

Gather These Ingredients

To make your Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the show, these will be marinated for flavor and tenderness.
1 cup buttermilk – This adds moisture and helps to tenderize the chicken.
1 teaspoon hot sauce – For a little kick in the marinade.
2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided) – Enhances flavor and seasoning.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper (divided) – Adds a subtle heat.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Creates a crispy coating.
2 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps to achieve extra crunch.
1 teaspoon ground paprika – Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
1 teaspoon onion powder – For depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better.
1 cup Buffalo hot sauce – The key ingredient for that signature flavor.
Cooking oil (for frying) – Choose your favorite oil for frying.
4 hamburger buns (toasted) – The base for your delicious sandwich.
Sliced tomato – Freshness and juiciness for your sandwich.
Leaf lettuce – Adds crunch and color.
Ranch or blue cheese dressing – A creamy accompaniment that complements the spice.

What’s in the Gear List

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the right gear on hand:

Large bowl – For marinating the chicken.
Deep frying pan or Dutch oven – Essential for frying the chicken.
Cooking thermometer – To check the oil temperature for frying.
Tongs – Perfect for flipping and removing the chicken.
Slotted spoon – For draining excess oil.
Plate lined with paper towels – To absorb the excess oil from the fried chicken.

Step-by-Step: Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, remaining salt, and pepper. This mixture will create the crispy coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In your deep frying pan or Dutch oven, pour enough cooking oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a bit of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Let excess marinade drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Drain the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 7: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken in the Buffalo hot sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast the hamburger buns to your liking. Layer leaf lettuce on the bottom half, followed by a piece of the Buffalo chicken, sliced tomato, and a generous drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Top with the other half of the bun.

Make It Fit Your Plan

You can customize your Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich to suit your taste and dietary needs:

Spicy Variation: Add extra hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
Healthier Option: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Veggie Version: Use cauliflower or eggplant instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.

Chef’s Notes

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; this ensures a crispy exterior and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
Feel free to adjust the spice level of your Buffalo sauce based on your preference.
If you’re a fan of pickles, add some pickles to the sandwich for a tangy crunch!
For a gourmet twist, experiment with different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel buns.

Best Ways to Store

Leftover Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich components can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispy, store it in an airtight container without sauce. Reheat the chicken in an oven to regain its crunch. Assemble the sandwiches fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered the Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media, and let your friends and family in on this crowd-pleasing recipe. Enjoy each crunchy, spicy bite as you relish in the joy of making something truly special in your own kitchen!

The Fried Buffalo Chicken Sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor that’s easy to create and even easier to enjoy. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful culinary adventure!