Irresistible Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Mayo Recipe

Crispy chicken sandwich with garlic mayo recipe this is your ultimate guide to mastering the boldest, crunchiest, and most flavor-packed sandwich you can make at home. With golden fried chicken, soft buns, and a rich garlic mayo spread, this recipe turns a simple sandwich into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or indulge on a weekend, this crispy chicken sandwich is the real deal.

For pro-level tips on breading and frying, check out the crispy fried chicken burger. If you’re looking for a baked alternative, this oven-baked crispy coating trick is worth exploring.

Why This Crispy Chicken Sandwich is a Game-Changer

Homemade fried chicken sandwiches have taken the culinary world by storm and for good reason. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Super crispy coating thanks to a seasoned flour blend and breading technique
  • Juicy, flavorful chicken marinated in a buttermilk-based bath
  • Rich garlic mayo that brings everything together with bold flavor
  • Customizable toppings so you can tailor your sandwich to your tastes

Whether you’re making it for family, guests, or just treating yourself, this sandwich delivers every time.

Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Mayo

For the Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper

For the Breading

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato starch (for crispiness)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper

For the Garlic Mayo

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

For Assembly

  • 4 brioche buns or soft sandwich rolls
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Dill pickle slices
  • Butter for toasting buns
Crispy chicken sandwich with garlic mayo on toasted brioche bun

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Mayo Recipe

1. Marinate the Chicken

  • Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally (butterfly cut) to create even, thin cutlets.
  • Pound lightly with a meat mallet to equal thickness.
  • In a bowl, mix buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Submerge the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best flavor).

2. Make the Garlic Mayo

  • In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated garlic, and lemon juice.
  • Stir until smooth.
  • Let it rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

For a detailed breakdown of flavor-melding techniques, read about mayonade marinade magic on Simply Recipes.

3. Prepare the Breading Station

  • In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  • Take 2–3 tablespoons of the marinade and drizzle into the flour mix. Rub with fingers to create small clumps—this creates the ultra-crunchy texture.

4. Bread and Fry the Chicken

  • Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
  • Dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
  • Heat oil to 350°F (180°C) in a deep skillet or Dutch oven.
  • Fry 1–2 pieces at a time until golden brown and cooked through (about 3–5 minutes per side).
  • Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined rack.

5. Toast the Buns

  • Butter the inside of each bun.
  • Toast in a skillet or oven until golden and crisp.

6. Assemble the Sandwich

  • Spread a generous amount of garlic mayo on each half of the bun.
  • Add lettuce, pickles, and the crispy chicken.
  • Close the sandwich and press gently.
Crispy chicken sandwich with garlic mayo on toasted brioche bun

Delicious Variations to Try

Make this sandwich your own by exploring these flavor twists:

Spicy Garlic Mayo

  • Add 1 tsp sriracha or cayenne to the garlic mayo.
  • Mix in finely chopped pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.

Crispy Chicken Thighs

  • Use boneless thighs for a more flavorful and juicy bite.
  • Slightly longer fry time but totally worth it.

Oven-Baked Version

  • Skip the frying and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes.
  • Use baking powder in the dredge for crispiness.
  • Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet for even heat circulation.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

This sandwich pairs well with:

  • Classic French fries or sweet potato fries
  • Homemade coleslaw
  • Pickled red onions
  • Kimchi for an Asian-fusion twist
  • Iced tea, sparkling lemonade, or cold beer

Serve everything on a wooden board or tray for a rustic presentation that elevates the dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best cut of chicken for this sandwich?

Both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work great. Breasts offer uniformity while thighs bring richer flavor.

How do I tone down strong garlic flavor in the mayo?

Grate the garlic very fine and let it sit in the mayo for at least 15 minutes. Lemon juice helps mellow the sharpness.

Can I marinate the chicken too long?

Yes—more than 24 hours may break down the chicken texture. Stick to 4–12 hours for best results.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. Use a rack for circulation and bake with a crisp-friendly coating (see oven-baked variation above).

How do I keep it crispy for later?

Keep the chicken and buns separate until ready to serve. Reheat the chicken in a toaster oven or skillet.

Conclusion

Making the perfect crispy chicken sandwich with garlic mayo at home is more than achievable—it’s an experience that will keep you coming back for more. From the satisfying crunch of the golden coating to the creamy, garlicky depth of the mayo, this sandwich is packed with bold, satisfying flavors.

Now that you’ve mastered the method, it’s time to get creative. Add hot sauce. Try a new bun. Throw in some pickled veggies. Or just stick with the classic—it never fails.

Happy sandwich making!

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Crispy chicken sandwich with garlic mayo on toasted brioche bun

Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Mayo Recipe


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

Description

This Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Garlic Mayo is everything a sandwich should be—crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with bold flavor thanks to the homemade garlic mayo. Whether served with fries, chips, or a simple salad, it’s a satisfying bite every time.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 cutlets)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Garlic Mayo:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 12 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Sandwich:

  • 4 brioche or potato buns, toasted
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

  • In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Add chicken cutlets and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the fridge.

2. Make the Garlic Mayo:

  • In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.

3. Bread the Chicken:

  • In another bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.

4. Fry the Chicken:

  • Heat about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry each piece for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Drain on paper towels.

5. Assemble the Sandwiches:

  • Spread garlic mayo on both sides of the toasted buns.
  • Layer with lettuce, tomato, crispy chicken, and pickles if desired.
  • Top with the bun and serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 880 mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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