Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches

Imagine biting into a sandwich where the crispy, golden-brown chicken meets a tangy, sweet chili sauce, all nestled in a soft brioche bun. This is not just any sandwich; this is a culinary experience that will dazzle your taste buds and leave you craving more. The Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them perfect for a quick lunch or a weekend treat. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwich recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, making it tender and juicy, while the combination of spices adds a punch of flavor. The sweet chili sauce brings a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the heat from the cayenne. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, who doesn’t love a crispy fried chicken sandwich? It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 chicken breasts, about 1 pound, cut in half horizontally
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne powder, and salt (for coating)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (for the mayo)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (for the mayo)
• 4-6 brioche buns

Tools of the Trade

• Large mixing bowl – for marinating the chicken
• Deep skillet or frying pan – for frying the chicken
• Meat thermometer – to ensure your chicken is cooked through
• Whisk – to mix the wet ingredients
• Plate lined with paper towels – for draining excess oil

Stepwise Method: Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne powder, and salt. This will create a crunchy coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, add enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to avoid any undercooked chicken.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow any excess marinade to drip off before dredging each piece in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated, tapping off any excess flour.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Sweet Chili Sauce Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the sweet chili sauce and sriracha. Mix until combined and heated through. This will be the sauce that coats your chicken.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Spread a generous layer on the bottom half of each brioche bun. Place a piece of fried chicken on top, drizzle with the sweet chili sauce mixture, and finish with the top half of the bun.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches immediately, garnished with extra sauce if desired. Pair them with your favorite side for a complete meal.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Summer: Serve with a side of coleslaw and corn on the cob for a backyard barbecue vibe.
• Fall: Pair with sweet potato fries and a pumpkin spice latte for a cozy autumn meal.
• Winter: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting dinner.
• Spring: Top with fresh arugula and pickled onions for a light and refreshing touch.

Steer Clear of These

While making these sticky sweet chili fried chicken sandwiches, it’s essential to avoid:

• Overcrowding the frying pan, as it can lead to uneven cooking.
• Using old oil for frying; fresh oil ensures a crispier texture.
• Skipping the marination step; it is crucial for tenderizing the chicken.
• Using low-quality chicken; opt for fresh, organic chicken for the best flavor.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

If you want to prepare these sandwiches ahead of time, here are some tips:

• Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor.
• You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through before assembling the sandwiches.
• The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Quick Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness to your sandwiches. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How spicy are these sandwiches?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the cayenne or omit the sriracha for a milder flavor.

Can I bake these chicken pieces instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier version, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

What can I serve as a side dish?

These sandwiches pair well with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a bowl of creamy mac and cheese!

See You at the Table

With each bite of these Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, these sandwiches are a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish, and don’t forget to share the joy with those you love. Happy cooking!