Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s sure to impress, then you’ve come to the right place! This Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce is one of my all-time favorites. It combines juicy, crispy fried chicken with a zesty sauce that brings out the best flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering, this sandwich hits the spot every time. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and perfect for meal prep—just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Imagine biting into that perfectly crunchy chicken, paired with a cool and creamy sauce. This recipe is not just delicious; it also offers versatility! You can customize it however you like. Let’s dive into why this spicy chicken sandwich has become a staple in our home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good sandwich! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance, then just fry or reheat for effortless meals throughout the week.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Crispy Goodness: The double dredge technique guarantees that perfect crunch we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce, we’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how they come together to create such an amazing flavor!

For the Marinade

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded 1/2-inch thick)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Dredge

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

• 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For Creamy Homemade Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

To Serve

• 4 brioche burger buns
• 8 dill pickle slices
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 1 small tomato (sliced, optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add some crunch: Toss in sliced jalapeños or coleslaw for extra texture and flavor.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like ranch or barbecue for variety.
• Go spicy: Increase the cayenne in the marinade for an extra kick if you’re feeling bold!

How to Make Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, kosher salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Submerge your chicken in the marinade and let it soak for at least one hour (or overnight if you have time). This step adds so much flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Dredge

In another shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. This spicy dredge is key to getting that crunchy coating on your chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat 3 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F. A thermometer is super helpful here! As it heats up, place a wire rack over a sheet pan to drain excess oil from your fried chicken later.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Once marinated, lift each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk mixture. Coat it generously in your seasoned dredge—press down gently to ensure it sticks well. For an extra crispy texture, feel free to double dredge!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden

Carefully lower your coated chicken into the hot oil and fry for about 4–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Use your wire rack to drain off any excess oil after frying.

Step 6: Whisk Together Your Sauce

In a separate bowl while your chicken is frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and honey if you’re using it. Taste as you go; adjust seasoning as needed!

Step 7: Toast Your Buns

Lightly toast your brioche buns in a pan or oven until golden brown. A little warmth makes them even more delicious!

Step 8: Assemble Your Sandwich

Spread creamy sauce on both sides of each toasted bun. Layer on crispy chicken followed by dill pickles and lettuce leaves. If you’re feeling fancy—add tomato slices too!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve these delightful sandwiches hot with extra creamy sauce on the side for dipping. Trust me; they won’t last long at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

Creating the perfect spicy chicken sandwich is all about technique and patience. Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking game!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight infuses it with flavor and ensures it stays juicy during frying. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat, making each bite delectable.
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: For a crunchier coating, dip the marinated chicken in the dredge mixture twice. This extra layer creates a fabulous texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping your oil at 350°F is crucial for achieving that golden brown crust without overcooking the chicken inside. A thermometer can help you monitor this easily.
• Use a Wire Rack: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from making the crust soggy, keeping it crispy until you’re ready to serve.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper in both the marinade and dredge to suit your heat preference. A little more can make it extra fiery!

How to Serve Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

Presenting your spicy chicken sandwich well can make all the difference at mealtime! Here are some delightful serving ideas to impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch; a squeeze just before eating brightens up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crispy French Fries: Classic and always a hit, these golden fries are perfect for dipping into any leftover creamy sauce.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy sandwich.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges add a hint of sweetness that balances out the heat from your sandwich and brings vibrant color to your plate.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy-to-eat side that provides a wonderful crunch, enhancing your meal’s overall texture.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this irresistible Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce! Whether it’s for dinner or game day, these tips and serving suggestions will surely make it unforgettable. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce is not just a delicious meal—it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store the components separately for easy assembly later.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Store the creamy homemade sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to one week.
• Keep any assembled sandwiches wrapped tightly; they are best consumed fresh but can last up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked, cooled chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring it to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• The creamy sauce can be frozen in ice cube trays; once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for future use.

Reheating

• To reheat chicken, bake it at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.
• For the sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then whisk it again before serving.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about this recipe!

Can I make the Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch in the dredge, and ensure your hot sauce is gluten-free as well.

How spicy is the Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce?

The heat level depends on how much cayenne pepper you use. Feel free to adjust it according to your taste preferences!

Can I use another type of bun for my Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce?

Absolutely! While brioche buns add a nice touch, feel free to use whole wheat buns, gluten-free options, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce as much as I do! It’s truly a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen. Whether it’s family dinner night, game day, or just a craving for something tasty, this sandwich is sure to please everyone. So roll up your sleeves and give it a try—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!