Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
If you’re craving something wildly crispy, sweet, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy, this Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk and spices, then fried to golden perfection, and slathered in a sticky honey chipotle sauce that packs a punch. Tucked into toasted brioche buns with crunchy slaw and tangy pickles, every bite is an irresistible combo of flavors and textures. This is comfort food with a seriously bold twist—guaranteed to turn any meal into an event!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this sandwich lies in how each simple ingredient plays a starring role. From the marinade to the toppings, every element layers on flavor, crunch, or a pop of color—making the Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe a showstopper.
- Chicken thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless thighs for juicy, flavorful meat that holds up to frying.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick, ensuring every bite is succulent.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses the marinade with a subtle smoky depth that complements the chipotle sauce.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory undertones to both the marinade and the sauce.
- Onion powder: Contributes a gentle sweetness and aromatic lift.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer, bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Gives just the right hint of heat and balance.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the crisp, golden crust when fried.
- Cornstarch: Lightens the coating for extra crunch.
- Vegetable oil: Neutral and perfect for deep frying, ensuring a crisp finish.
- Brioche buns: Toasted and buttery, these buns are sturdy enough for all the fillings.
- Coleslaw mix: Offers a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the slaw, adding tang and moisture.
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives a zippy lift to both the slaw and the sauce.
- Pickles: Bring a necessary tang and snap to balance the sandwich.
- Honey: Sweetens the chipotle sauce, making it sticky and irresistible.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: Bring smoky heat and complexity to the sauce.
- Garlic powder (for sauce): Backs up the savory notes in the honey chipotle sauce.
- Pinch of salt (for sauce): Rounds out all the flavors in the finishing drizzle.
How to Make Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the buttermilk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully submerged. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This step is key—the buttermilk works its magic, making every bite extra juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Dredge
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This duo guarantees a light, shatteringly crisp crust once the chicken hits the oil. Set this bowl up next to your marinated chicken for an easy assembly line.
Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove each chicken thigh from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then coat thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the chicken for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s deeply golden and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate for maximum crunch.
Step 4: Make the Honey Chipotle Sauce
While the chicken rests, whisk together the honey, finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Warm it gently on low heat just until everything melds into a glossy, pourable sauce. This is the flavor bomb that takes the Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe to a whole new level.
Step 5: Toss the Slaw
In a small bowl, mix the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good toss to coat all the shreds. This simple slaw adds crunch and a cool contrast to the spicy-sweet chicken.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast your brioche buns until golden. Spread a generous spoonful of the honey chipotle sauce on the bottom half of each bun, pile on a crispy fried chicken thigh, top with a mound of slaw and a few pickles, then crown with the top bun. Serve immediately and get ready for big smiles all around.
How to Serve Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish can make your Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe pop. Sprinkle on a little chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for color and freshness. A quick dusting of extra smoked paprika or a few thinly sliced jalapeños can also add a gourmet touch and a flash of heat.
Side Dishes
This sandwich loves classic sides! Serve it with sweet potato fries, crispy potato wedges, or a simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette. The richness of the chicken pairs perfectly with fresh, crunchy vegetables or even some pickled red onions on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the sandwiches in halves or quarters and serve them on a platter as sliders for a party. Stack them high with extra slaw or serve open-faced with a drizzle of honey chipotle sauce for a deconstructed look that’s sure to impress. Mini skewers or parchment wraps can add a playful, casual vibe for picnics or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra chicken, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the slaw and sauce separate to maintain crispness and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
The fried chicken thighs freeze surprisingly well! After cooling, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Buns, slaw, and sauce are best made fresh.
Reheating
To bring leftover chicken back to life, reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for about 10 minutes until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Warm the sauce separately to drizzle over the chicken just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work beautifully if you prefer white meat—just be sure to pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy in the Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe.
How spicy is the honey chipotle sauce?
The sauce brings a gentle, smoky heat that’s balanced by the sweetness of honey. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less chipotle peppers to suit your heat tolerance.
What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?
If you’re out of buttermilk or need a dairy-free version, simply mix any non-dairy milk with a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes—it works wonders for tenderizing the chicken in this recipe.
Can I make the chicken in advance?
You sure can! Prep and fry the chicken ahead of time, then reheat in the oven before assembling the sandwiches. The slaw and sauce are quick to whip up at the last minute for ultimate freshness.
What kind of pickles are best for this sandwich?
Dill pickles are classic and offer a briny tang that cuts through the richness perfectly, but bread-and-butter pickles add a hint of sweetness if you want to play up the sweet-spicy notes in the Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about building your own crispy, saucy sandwich at home, and this Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe is truly a flavor-packed adventure. Give it a go and watch it disappear—your friends and family will be begging for seconds!
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Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Honey Chipotle Fried Chicken Sandwich combines crispy, juicy fried chicken thighs marinated in a smoky, spicy buttermilk blend and coated with a crunchy flour and cornstarch crust. Topped with a vibrant honey chipotle sauce, creamy coleslaw, and pickles, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun, this sandwich delivers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tang. Ideal for a comforting and flavorful main course with Southern-American influences.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
Sandwich Assembly
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Pickles for serving
Honey Chipotle Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the mixture, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare Breading: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing well. This mixture will create a light and crispy crust on the fried chicken.
- Heat Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain this temperature for optimal frying results.
- Coat Chicken: Remove marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick coating.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Fry them for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Drain Chicken: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and keep the crust crispy.
- Make Honey Chipotle Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together honey, chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Warm gently until the sauce is combined and heated through. Set aside.
- Prepare Coleslaw: In a small bowl, mix the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar until evenly coated, creating a creamy and tangy topping.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Spread a spoonful of honey chipotle sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Layer each with a piece of fried chicken, a generous portion of coleslaw, and pickles. Top with the remaining bun halves.
- Serve: Serve the sandwiches immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy, accompanied by your favorite sides such as sweet potato fries or a tangy salad.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers to the honey chipotle sauce according to your preference.
- For an extra crunchy coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the buttermilk and flour mixture dredging steps before frying.
- This sandwich pairs excellently with sweet potato fries or a fresh, tangy side salad for a complete meal.
- To make a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with a mixture of non-dairy milk and vinegar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus at least 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
