BEST CRISPY CHICKEN CAESAR SANDWICH

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken, nestled between a soft, toasted bun, and slathered in creamy, tangy Caesar dressing with crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich isn’t just lunch; it’s an experience, a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more, and I promise you, it’s easier to make than you think!

The Dream Team: What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch thick cutlets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for a little kick!)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Caesar Dressing:

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

For the Sandwich Assembly:

• 4 hamburger buns, brioche or your favorite
• 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Getting Started: Prep is Key!

Before we dive into the cooking, let’s get everything prepped and organized. This will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Build This Masterpiece

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
2. Add the chicken cutlets to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This will tenderize the chicken and add flavor.

Step 2: Crispy Coating Time!

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off.
3. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Press the flour mixture gently onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack while you heat the oil.

Step 3: Frying to Golden Perfection

1. Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 inch.
2. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of the flour mixture into it. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
3. Carefully place the chicken cutlets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
4. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This is crucial for keeping the chicken crispy!

Step 4: Whipping Up the Caesar Dressing

1. While the chicken is frying, prepare the Caesar dressing. 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. Adjust the ingredients to your preference. If you like a tangier dressing, add more lemon juice. If you prefer it creamier, add a bit more mayonnaise.

Step 5: Assembling the Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

1. Lightly toast the hamburger buns. This will prevent them from getting soggy.
2. Spread a generous amount of Caesar dressing on both halves of each bun.
3. Place a bed of shredded romaine lettuce on the bottom bun.
4. Top with a slice or two of tomato.
5. Place a crispy chicken cutlet on top of the tomato.
6. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Top with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich!

Troubleshooting Tips: Because Things Happen!

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Chicken isn’t crispy enough: Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C). Overcrowding the pan can also lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches and ensure the chicken is fully coated in the flour mixture. Also, don’t skip the wire rack after frying!
• Chicken is burning on the outside but not cooked inside: The oil is too hot! Reduce the heat to medium and continue frying until the chicken is cooked through.
• Caesar dressing is too thick: Add a teaspoon of water or milk at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Caesar dressing is too thin: Add a bit more mayonnaise or Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.

Variations and Twists: Make it Your Own!

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is delicious as is, but feel free to experiment and add your own personal touch! Here are a few ideas:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the Caesar dressing for a spicy kick.
• Add bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon is a classic addition to a Caesar salad, and it works perfectly in this sandwich too!
• Use different greens: Try using arugula or spinach instead of romaine lettuce for a different flavor profile.
• Add avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy and healthy element to the sandwich.
• Make it a wrap: Instead of using buns, wrap the chicken, lettuce, tomato, and Caesar dressing in a large tortilla for a Crispy Chicken Caesar Wrap.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to complete the experience:

• French fries or sweet potato fries: A classic pairing with any sandwich!
• Side salad: A simple green salad or a Chicken Street Tacos would complement the sandwich perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing element to the meal.
• Potato chips: A quick and easy side dish for a casual lunch.

Other Chicken Recipe Inspirations

If you enjoyed this recipe, I think you’ll love some of my other chicken recipes too! Why not give my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl a try for something packed with flavor, or perhaps the Garlic Chicken Wraps for a quick and easy meal. For a fun twist, check out my Bbq Chicken Mac, or for a healthier option, my Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. And don’t forget the Garlic Chicken Cheese Wraps for a cheesy delight!

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Creation!

There you have it – the ultimate Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich recipe! I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious sandwich as much as I do. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!

BEST Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a flavor explosion that combines perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken with creamy Caesar dressing, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun. It’s easier to make than you think and guarantees a satisfying and craveable lunch or dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 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 1/2-inch thick cutlets
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce optional
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns, brioche or your favorite
• 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish optional

Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Shallow dish
• Wire rack
• Large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven
• Candy thermometer (optional)
• Paper towels
• Small bowl
• Toaster

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
2. Add the chicken cutlets to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
4. In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off.
6. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Press the flour mixture gently onto the chicken to help it adhere.
7. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack while you heat the oil.
8. Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 1 inch.
9. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
10. Carefully place the chicken cutlets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
11. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
12. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
13. While the chicken is frying, prepare the Caesar dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
14. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the ingredients to your preference.
15. Lightly toast the hamburger buns.
16. Spread a generous amount of Caesar dressing on both halves of each bun.
17. Place a bed of shredded romaine lettuce on the bottom bun.
18. Top with a slice or two of tomato.
19. Place a crispy chicken cutlet on top of the tomato.
20. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
21. Top with the other half of the bun.
22. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Store leftover chicken separately from the buns and dressing to prevent sogginess. Crispy chicken can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain its texture. Try adding bacon, avocado, or different greens for variations.