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Crispy Chick-fil-A–Style Chicken Sandwich (Homemade)

Crispy Chick-fil-A–style chicken sandwich on a parchment-lined tray with waffle fries in the background
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This homemade Chick-fil-A–style chicken sandwich is a copycat-inspired favorite made with juicy chicken marinated in pickle juice, coated in a lightly sweet, ultra-crispy breading, and pan-fried until golden brown.

Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
  • 1/2 cup pickle juice
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/3 cup milk

Egg Wash

  • 1 large egg

Breading Mixture

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 TBSP powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp cornstarch
  • 1–2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spicy)

For Frying

  • Neutral oil, enough for frying (about 2-3 cups depending on pan size, enough for ½–¾ inch depth)

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Pickles
  • Lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Cheese slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large zip-top bag, combine pickle juice, water, and milk. Add chicken, seal, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix all breading ingredients until evenly combined.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dip into egg wash, then dredge in flour mixture, pressing firmly.
  5. For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and flour dip. (RECOMMENDED!)
  6. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat to about 350°F.
  7. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to rest briefly.
  9. Assemble sandwiches on toasted buns with desired toppings and serve with our copy-cat chick fil a sauce.

Notes

  • Air Fryer Option: Lightly spray breaded chicken with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
  • Spicy Version: Add cayenne to the flour mixture for heat.
  • Crispiness Tip: Rest fried chicken on a wire rack to keep the coating crunchy.
  • Oil temp target: 350°F
  • Visual cue: oil should shimmer and gently bubble around a wooden spoon

Find it online: https://ourgratefulkitchen.com/crispy-chick-fil-a-style-chicken-sandwich-homemade/