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A close-up showcases a delicious Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

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.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

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.