Name: Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces chicken breasts (about 1 pound, cut in half horizontally); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp cayenne powder; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 1 cup flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cayenne powder; 1 tsp salt; 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 pieces brioche buns

Imagine biting into a juicy, crispy fried chicken sandwich that drips with sticky sweet chili sauce, complemented by a creamy, spicy mayo. These Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a weekend gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe will leave your taste buds dancing and your stomach satisfied.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can whip it up in no time!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about fried chicken sandwiches, especially when they’re made from scratch. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy chicken, while the sweet and spicy sauces elevate the whole experience. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also allows for customization—whether you like your sandwiches extra spicy or prefer a milder flavor. Plus, the combination of buttermilk and seasonings results in chicken that is incredibly flavorful and moist. Trust me; once you try these Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll crave them again and again!

Shopping List

2 chicken breasts, about 1 pound, cut in half horizontally
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 tsp EACH of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper
1 cup flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp 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

Setup & Equipment

Large mixing bowls for soaking and coating
Whisk for mixing buttermilk and egg
Frying pan or deep fryer for frying the chicken
Meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through
Spatula for flipping chicken
Paper towels for draining excess oil

Make Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches: A Simple Method

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 until well combined. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum 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 be the crispy coating for your chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the chicken (about 1-2 inches deep) over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to fry.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Let excess marinade drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil (do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the sweet chili sauce and sriracha. Mix well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create a spicy mayo. Spread a generous amount of this mayo on the bottom half of each brioche bun. Place a piece of fried chicken on top, then drizzle with the sweet chili sauce mixture. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

Use almond flour instead of regular flour for coating the chicken.
Replace the brioche buns with lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
Opt for sugar-free sweet chili sauce if available.
Consider using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a side instead of traditional sides.

Notes on Ingredients

Using buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a delightful tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauces. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference; adding more cayenne will ramp up the heat!

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because these sandwiches are so delicious!), store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes. The buns can be toasted slightly before serving again to bring them back to life.

Ask & Learn

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier sandwich and are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat.

What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

How can I make the chicken spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper to the marinade and the coating, or consider using a spicier hot sauce in the mayo mix. You can also incorporate sliced jalapeños or other spicy toppings.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

While the fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just fry and assemble the sandwiches right before serving for the best taste and texture.

Desserts to Finish

Bring It to the Table

Now that you have mastered the art of making Sticky Sweet Chili Fried Chicken Sandwiches, it’s time to gather your friends and family around the table. Serve these sandwiches with a side of crispy fries and a refreshing drink, and enjoy the delightful compliments that are sure to come your way. The combination of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds, and you’ll be the star of the show.

So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!