Easy Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich
The Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich brings all the flavors of a Caesar salad into a substantial, portable package, a lunch or dinner to rely on all week, or a treat for the weekend. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor and will surely be a crowd-pleaser at any table.
There’s something irresistible about sinking your teeth into a crunchy chicken fillet, slathered in creamy Caesar dressing and wedged between a couple of toasted buns.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Golden and crunchy: the crispy chicken is full of flavor, perfectly seasoned, and the thicker breading adds to the crunch and taste.
- Rich and Garlicky: Caesar dressing has that rich, garlicky taste that goes so well with the chicken.
- Straightforward: Easy-to-follow components and steps make this recipe doable for every ability degree.
- Versatile: Suitable for game day snacks, relaxed dinners or a family lunch.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crispiness)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Sandwich
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
- ½ cup Caesar dressing
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- ¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to create even cooking. If large, cut them into thinner fillets.
- Mix buttermilk and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Add the chicken fillets, and marinate at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for added tenderness).
STEP 2: Prepare Your Breading Station
- Bowl 1: Mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Combine Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece through the seasoned flour, coating well.
- Dip in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, forming a thick even layer.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- In a skillet, heat ½ inch of oil over medium heat. (Test by dunking in a piece of bread. If it sizzles, it’s ready.)
- Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked throughout (the internal temperature should read 165°F).
- Drain the chicken on a wire rack or absorbent paper to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
Spread a thin layer of butter on the sandwich buns and toast them in a skillet or oven until golden.
Step 6: Put the Sandwiches Together
- Slather the bottom bun with Caesar dressing.
- Top with a crispy chicken fillet.
- Top with shredded romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan and another drizzle of extra Caesar dressing.
- For an added kick, drizzle some lemon juice on top.
- Top with the top bun, press down gently, and serve at once.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- For Extra Crispiness: Aka, double-coat the chicken by repeating egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Low-Healthier: Bake at 400°F 20-25 minutes or air fry at 375°F 12-15 minutes.
- Storage Tip: Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Also great reheated in an air fryer or oven to crisp up.
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
How to Serve
Serve your Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich with French fries, a simple Caesar salad, or roasted veggies. For something creative, top it with sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon or a fried egg for breakfast vibes.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 625 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and do a great job. Tap them down for more even cooking.
2. What’s the best bun to use?
The soft, slightly sweet brioche buns pair well with the crispy chicken. Brioche or potato buns or ciabatta are also great options.
3. Can I make this sandwich in advance?
You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. For the crunchiest result, fry right before serving.
4. How do you reheat leftovers without losing their crispiness?
At 350°F in a conventional oven (or a few minutes in the air frier). Do not microwave, which will make the breading soggy.
Make Every Bite Count
The Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a perfect balance of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weekday pick-me-up or a special occasion, it’s sure to have everybody wanting more. And don’t forget to add your own toppings and customization!