California Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe – American Special
Indulge in the California ‘Fried’ Chicken Sandwich, a delightful combination of crispy, tender chicken marinated in buttermilk and coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Topped with creamy avocado, peppery arugula, and juicy tomato, this sandwich captures the essence of California cuisine—fresh, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a casual lunch or hearty dinner, it’s a satisfying dish that promises to please any chicken lover!
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time30 min
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
For the Sandwich:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup arugula or lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to make California Fried Chicken Sandwich :
Marinate the Chicken:In a bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).
Prepare the Coating:In one bowl, place the flour. In another, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Coat the Chicken:Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, then dip back into the buttermilk, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coating.
Fry the Chicken:In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove and drain on paper towels.
Assemble the Sandwich:In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with arugula, fried chicken, avocado slices, and tomato. Season with salt and pepper, then top with the other half of the bun.
Serve:Enjoy immediately with your favorite sides!
Recipe Notes :
Healthier Option:For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Customization:Add your favorite toppings such as pickles, cheese, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Make Ahead:You can marinate the chicken the night before, and the sandwiches can be assembled shortly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:Pair with sweet potato fries, a simple salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
