Heavy-duty cast iron skillet or deep fryer (Essential for that perfect deep fried chicken sandwich texture)
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rolling Pin (for the biscuits)
Biscuit cutter (or a drinking glass)
Tongs
Wire Rack (for draining fried chicken)
Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken
2bonelessskinless chicken breasts (you can substitute thighs if preferred)
1cupall-purpose flour
1/2cupcornstarch
1teaspoonbaking powder
1teaspoonpaprika
1teaspoongarlic powder
1teaspoononion powder
1teaspoonsalt
1/2teaspoonblack pepper
1/2teaspooncayenne pepperoptional for that spicy fried chicken sandwich vibe
2eggs
1/2cupmilk
Vegetable oilfor frying
For the Biscuits
2cupsall-purpose flour
1tablespoonbaking powder
1teaspoonsalt
6tablespoonscold unsalted buttercubed
3/4cupcold buttermilkor regular milk with a splash of lemon juice
For the Honey Butter
1/2cupunsalted buttersoftened
1/4cuphoney
Pinchof salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by flattening your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking, making for a more consistent fried chicken breast sandwich experience.
Set up a dredging station with two bowls: one for the beaten eggs and milk, and another for the dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, and all the seasonings). Dip each piece of chicken into the wet mixture, then dredge in the dry, pressing firmly so the coating sticks.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of oil in your skillet to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches, about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Place on a wire rack to drain — not on paper towels, which can make the crust soggy. This technique is key in most crispy chicken sandwich recipes and is a pro move if you're aiming for that "better-than-the-popeyes chicken sandwich recipe" experience.
Step 3: Make the Biscuits
While the chicken rests, preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the buttermilk just until combined.
Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick and cut out your biscuits. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Brush with melted butter right out of the oven for an extra luxurious finish.
Step 4: Whip Up the Honey Butter
Mix softened butter with honey and a pinch of salt. That's it! But trust me, this simple touch is what takes your sandwich into "I-will-never-forget-this" territory.
Step 5: Assemble
Split a warm biscuit, slather each side with honey butter, add a juicy fried chicken piece, and top it with the other half. If you're feeling fancy, a quick pickle slice or a dab of hot sauce never hurts.