Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Aioli

Name: Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Aioli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Pickles (optional)

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I adore creating delicious, crispy chicken sandwiches, and this recipe for Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Aioli is a personal favorite of mine. The moment the chicken comes out of the fryer, you can hear that perfect crisp. The homemade aioli adds a garlicky richness that elevates the entire experience. With a few simple ingredients and just 30 minutes, I can whip up this tasty sandwich that always impresses friends and family. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a weekend dinner.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:10:28.338Z

Each time I prepare this Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Aioli, I’m reminded of the joy of crunching through that golden crust, revealing juicy chicken cooked to perfection inside. I’ve experimented with various spices in the coating, and I found that a mix of garlic powder and paprika brings out fantastic flavor. Pairing the chicken with fresh vegetables adds freshness and color, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

What I love most about this recipe is the homemade aioli, which is surprisingly easy to make. I typically combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The tangy aioli complements the crunch of the chicken beautifully. I recommend letting the aioli chill for a bit, as this enhances the flavors and makes it even more delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden-brown chicken that's bursting with flavor
Homemade aioli that takes the sandwich to the next level
Perfect balance of textures with crunchy lettuce and soft bread

      

The Importance of Buttermilk Marination

Marinating chicken in buttermilk is a crucial step in achieving tender, juicy meat. The acidity of the buttermilk helps break down the proteins, making the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful. For best results, aim for a marination time of at least 15 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will yield even better flavor and texture.

Ensure that the chicken breasts are fully submerged in the buttermilk for even marination. If buttermilk is not available, a mixture of regular milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can work as a suitable substitute. Just remember that the longer you marinate, the more pronounced the flavor and tenderness will be.

Creating the Perfect Aioli

Homemade aioli can significantly elevate your Crispy Chicken Sandwich by adding a rich, garlicky flavor that complements the chicken. To make sure your aioli has the right consistency, mix the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice until you achieve a glossy, smooth texture. It should be spreadable but not too thin; if it seems runny, you can add a bit more mayonnaise to thicken it.

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the aioli for depth and complexity. Make sure to taste before serving, as adjusting the salt and pepper at this stage can enhance the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.

Tips for Perfectly Fried Chicken

Achieving that ideal crispy coating starts with the dredging process. Make sure to shake off excess buttermilk before coating the chicken in the flour mixture; this will help the breading adhere better, resulting in that coveted crunch. I recommend using a heavy-duty frying pan or Dutch oven for even heat distribution, as well as a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F for optimal frying.

Keep an eye on the frying time; overcooking can lead to dry chicken, while undercooking poses food safety risks. The goal is to achieve a golden brown crust while ensuring the interior reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once fried, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil, ensuring each bite remains crispy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious sandwich:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Aioli:

1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

4 hamburger buns
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Pickles (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Crispy Chicken Sandwich:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Aioli

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate.

Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Assemble the Sandwich

Spread aioli on the bottom half of each bun. Add a piece of fried chicken, top with lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and the other half of the bun.

Your delicious sandwich is ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding panko breadcrumbs to the flour mixture. Enjoy the aioli with other dishes, or use it as a dip for fries.

Serving Suggestions

This Crispy Chicken Sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of homemade coleslaw or sweet potato fries, providing a refreshing crunch and contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich. Adding a slice of avocado or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also enhance the dish with creaminess, balancing the crispy elements beautifully.

For those wanting to add an extra layer of flavor, consider topping the sandwich with a drizzle of hot honey or a smear of mustard. These additions can elevate the taste and create a delightful contrast with the aioli and fried chicken.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, the chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to use an air fryer or a convection oven to maintain the crispiness of the chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F and heat the chicken for about 5-8 minutes, checking for doneness.

The aioli can also be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week, making it a versatile condiment for other dishes. If you’re planning on making this sandwich ahead of time, I suggest prepping the components separately and assembling them just before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes for a healthier option.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.

→ Can the aioli be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! The aioli can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ What should I serve with this sandwich?

French fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad complement this crispy chicken sandwich perfectly.