Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to recreate the iconic Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich at home. Enjoy the crispy, juicy chicken with a simple yet flavorful sauce, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 breasts)
• 2 tablespoons Louisiana hot sauce
• 1 cup pickle juice (or buttermilk)

For the Flour Dredge:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon dry milk powder
• ½ teaspoon fine salt

For the Wet Dredge:

• 1 large egg
• ⅓ cup whole milk

For the Sauce:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon coarse ground mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

For Serving:

• Brioche buns
• Butter
• Pickle slices (optional)
• Lettuce, tomato, onion (optional)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-10 minutes
• Servings: 3-4

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a storage bag.

Add the hot sauce and pickle juice (or buttermilk) to the bag. Seal the bag and mix well. Place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Dredge Mix

In a bowl, combine all the dry ingredients for the dredge: flour, paprika, lemon pepper, black pepper, chicken bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, powdered sugar, dry milk powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and add it to the chicken.

Add the milk to the chicken and egg mixture. Mix well with your hands.

Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on both sides. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet.

Repeat the dredging process for a double coating. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, coarse ground mustard, paprika, onion powder, honey, and hot sauce. Mix well and set aside.

Step 5: Air Fryer or Fry the Chicken

Air Fryer Method: Brush the chicken with oil on both sides. Air fry at 400°F for about 6 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frying Method: Heat oil to 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oil and place on a wire rack to drain.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

Butter and toast the brioche buns on a griddle over low heat.

Spread the sauce on both halves of the bun. Place the fried chicken on the bottom bun. Top with pickles and any other desired toppings. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.