The ultimate crispy chicken sandwich is here! Inspired by Gordon Ramsay, this recipe delivers everything you crave in a sandwich—juicy, tender chicken, a crispy and golden crust, and a creamy, slightly spicy mayo that ties everything together. Served on a soft, toasted brioche bun with crunchy pickles and fresh lettuce, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture.
This sandwich is perfect for those who love indulgent comfort food but want to enjoy it homemade. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays tender and flavorful, while the double-dredging technique creates an irresistibly crispy crust. Whether you’re making this for a casual dinner or impressing guests, this chicken sandwich is bound to be a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced pickles
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Submerge the chicken in the buttermilk mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Prepare the Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk together egg, hot sauce, and whole milk.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and again in the flour mixture. Press the flour coating onto the chicken for extra crispiness.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lemon juice.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the spicy mayo on the toasted brioche buns. Place fried chicken on the bottom bun, top with pickles, shredded lettuce, and the top bun. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
History and Inspiration
Gordon Ramsay’s chicken sandwich is a gourmet take on a classic fast-food favorite, featuring crispy buttermilk-fried chicken, a rich and creamy Sriracha mayo, and soft, buttery brioche buns. Inspired by restaurant-style sandwiches, this recipe elevates the humble chicken sandwich by using high-quality ingredients, a perfectly balanced spice mix, and expert cooking techniques to create an indulgent, crispy, and juicy meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Buttermilk Marinade: The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful. The acidity in the buttermilk also helps the breading adhere better.
- Double-Dredging Technique: Coating the chicken twice in a flour mixture (with cornstarch and baking powder) creates an extra crispy crust, similar to what you’d get at a high-end restaurant.
- Perfectly Balanced Spices: The blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the chicken.
- Crispy Brioche Bun: Brioche buns are lightly toasted to add a buttery flavor and a sturdy base that holds up against the juicy chicken and sauce.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: This sauce adds a rich and creamy kick to the sandwich, balancing the crispy and savory flavors with a bit of heat.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Sandwich
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken sit in the buttermilk mixture for at least 1 hour, but overnight marination will result in an even juicier and more flavorful bite.
- Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: The key to crispy fried chicken is keeping the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C). If it gets too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Drain Properly: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy and ensures the crust stays crisp.
- Customize Your Sauce: If you like it spicier, add extra Sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, mix the mayo with honey or a bit of Dijon mustard.
- Use the Right Bread: While brioche buns are ideal, you can also try potato buns or even ciabatta for a heartier texture.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich: After frying, brush the chicken with a hot oil blend made with cayenne pepper and paprika for a Nashville-style sandwich.
- Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Toss the fried chicken in buffalo sauce and top with ranch dressing and lettuce.
- BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Swap the Sriracha mayo for a smoky BBQ sauce for a tangy and sweet twist.
- Healthier Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air-fry it at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Cholesterol: ~110mg
- Sodium: ~980mg
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~6g
This sandwich is a great source of protein and can be adjusted to fit different dietary needs by swapping ingredients like whole-wheat buns, lighter sauces, or air-frying instead of deep-frying.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Tender and Juicy Chicken: The buttermilk marinade not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it, ensuring it stays moist and juicy after frying.
- Crispy, Golden Coating: A mix of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder gives the chicken a light yet crunchy texture that rivals any fast-food favorite.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The addition of cayenne, paprika, and garlic powder in the coating creates a subtle heat, while the Sriracha mayo adds a creamy, spicy contrast.
- Brioche Bun Perfection: Using toasted brioche buns enhances the sandwich with a slightly sweet, buttery taste, complementing the savory fried chicken.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Chicken Sandwich
1. The Buttermilk Marinade – Why It’s Essential
The buttermilk acts as a tenderizer, breaking down the proteins in the chicken while infusing it with flavor. A minimum of 1 hour of marination is required, but overnight marination will yield even better results.
2. Achieving the Crispiest Coating
- Double-dredging the chicken in flour and cornstarch creates an extra crispy crust.
- Letting the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying allows the flour to adhere better, preventing the breading from falling off.
- Use baking powder in the flour mixture—this helps create a light, crunchy texture.
3. Frying Like a Pro
- Oil temperature control is crucial – maintain it at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. Too hot, and the coating will burn; too low, and the chicken will absorb too much oil.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken greasy instead of crispy.
4. Toasting the Brioche Buns
Toasting the buns prevents them from becoming soggy and adds an extra layer of flavor. Simply butter the inside of each bun and toast them in a pan for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Making the Perfect Sriracha Mayo
- For extra heat, add a dash of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce.
- For a tangy kick, squeeze in a bit of lime or lemon juice.
- For a milder version, mix in a little honey or Greek yogurt to balance the spice.
Customizing Your Chicken Sandwich
This sandwich is versatile and can be modified to suit different tastes and preferences:
1. Spicy Nashville-Style Chicken Sandwich
- After frying, brush the chicken with a spicy oil mixture made of cayenne, paprika, brown sugar, and hot sauce for a Nashville-inspired twist.
2. BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Swap the Sriracha mayo for a smoky BBQ sauce and top with crispy onion rings for added crunch.
3. Classic Southern Chicken Sandwich
- Omit the spicy mayo and replace it with honey mustard or ranch dressing for a classic comfort-food taste.
4. Healthier Baked Version
- Instead of frying, coat the chicken with panko breadcrumbs and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Alternatively, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
Serving Suggestions
This sandwich pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
✔ Crispy French Fries – A classic choice for a complete meal.
✔ Sweet Potato Fries – Adds a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy sandwich.
✔ Coleslaw – A creamy, tangy side that balances the richness of the fried chicken.
✔ Pickles – Extra pickles on the side enhance the sandwich’s flavor.
✔ Corn on the Cob – A simple yet delicious accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep sauce and toppings separate to prevent the buns from getting soggy.
How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness
Avoid microwaving, as it will make the chicken soggy. Instead:
- Oven method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Air fryer method: Set to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! To freeze:
- Bread the chicken but do not fry it. Place it on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer the frozen breaded chicken to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Fry straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are naturally juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through.
2. How can I make the sandwich less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the coating and use plain mayo instead of Sriracha mayo.
3. What’s the best oil for frying?
Use neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or cornstarch. Make sure your buns are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Gordon Ramsay-inspired chicken sandwich is a game-changer for those who love crispy, juicy, and flavorful sandwiches. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a weekend treat, this sandwich will quickly become a favorite in your household. With simple yet effective techniques, you can recreate a restaurant-quality meal right at home.