BEST CRISPY CHICKEN CAESAR SANDWICH

Craving something incredibly satisfying, where juicy crispy chicken meets the creamy, tangy perfection of Caesar dressing? Imagine biting into a warm, toasted bun filled with layers of flavor and texture that will make your taste buds sing – that’s exactly what you get with this Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich. I promise, this recipe will quickly become your new lunchtime (or anytime!) favorite.

The Star Players: Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cutlets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Caesar Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sandwich Assembly:

• 4 burger buns, brioche or your favorite
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This helps them cook evenly.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
2. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s completely covered. Press firmly so the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles immediately upon contact.
2. Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Whip Up That Caesar Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preference – more lemon juice for tanginess, more garlic for a bolder flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

1. Lightly toast the burger buns. This adds a nice texture and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy.
2. Spread a generous amount of Caesar dressing on both the top and bottom buns.
3. Place a bed of chopped romaine lettuce on the bottom bun.
4. Top with a crispy chicken cutlet.
5. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Place the top bun on the sandwich and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Crispy Chicken Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many chicken cutlets at once will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Work in batches to maintain the heat.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack to allow excess oil to drain off. This helps maintain its crispiness.
• Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy and adds a nice texture contrast to the sandwich.
• Make the Dressing Ahead: The Caesar dressing can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Variations to Make It Your Own

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Add Some Crunch: Include croutons in the sandwich for extra crunch and texture.
• Grilled Chicken: For a healthier option, grill the chicken instead of frying it. Marinate the chicken in the Caesar dressing for added flavor.
• Wrap It Up: Use a large tortilla instead of a bun for a Crispy Chicken Caesar Wrap.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Asiago or Pecorino Romano, for a unique flavor twist.

Side Dish Suggestions

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right side dish! Here are a few of my favorites:

• Fries: Classic and always a hit! Try sweet potato fries for a healthier option.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side that complements the richness of the sandwich.
• Potato Salad: A creamy and comforting side dish.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the sandwich.

Storing and Reheating

• Storing: If you have leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the Caesar dressing separately.
• Reheating: To reheat the chicken, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. I don’t recommend microwaving it, as it will lose its crispiness. It’s best to assemble a fresh sandwich.

More Delicious Chicken Recipes

If you loved this Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich, you might also enjoy some of my other favorite chicken recipes! Try this comforting Chicken Tortellini Soup on a chilly evening. For a quick and flavorful lunch, these Garlic Chicken Wraps are always a winner. And if you’re looking for something truly indulgent, you can’t go wrong with Bbq Chicken Mac Heaven. For a healthy alternative to fried chicken, check out these Baked Chicken Tenders. And for a comforting pasta dish, you’ll love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or this Creamy Garlic Chicken recipe.

Why This Recipe Works

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich hits all the right notes because of the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy Caesar dressing adds a tangy and savory element. The fresh romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast. Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking, and using panko breadcrumbs creates an extra-crispy coating. The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in the breadcrumb mixture adds depth of flavor. And finally, toasting the buns adds a delightful texture that holds everything together.

Let’s Get Started!

Are you ready to sink your teeth into the most delicious Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich ever? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Happy cooking!

BEST Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

Indulge in the ultimate Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich, where juicy, crispy chicken cutlets meet the creamy, tangy perfection of Caesar dressing, all nestled in a warm, toasted bun. This recipe delivers layers of flavor and satisfying textures that will quickly become your new lunchtime favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cutlets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 burger buns, brioche or your favorite
• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish optional

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Meat mallet
• Shallow dishes (3)
• Large Skillet
• Wire rack
• Paper towels
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Spatula
• Toaster or oven

Method

 

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
5. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
6. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
7. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s completely covered. Press firmly so the breadcrumbs adhere well.
8. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles immediately upon contact.
9. Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
10. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
11. Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
12. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
13. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust ingredients to preference.
14. Lightly toast the burger buns.
15. Spread a generous amount of Caesar dressing on both the top and bottom buns.
16. Place a bed of chopped romaine lettuce on the bottom bun.
17. Top with a crispy chicken cutlet.
18. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
19. Place the top bun on the sandwich and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain oil temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying to drain excess oil. Toasting the buns prevents sogginess. The Caesar dressing can be made a day or two in advance. Spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Add croutons for extra crunch. For a healthier option, grill the chicken. Use a large tortilla instead of a bun for a wrap. Experiment with different cheeses. Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the Caesar dressing separately. To reheat the chicken, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness. Assemble a fresh sandwich for the best results.