The Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from The Cheesecake Factory features a juicy, breaded chicken breast seasoned with bold spices, topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mayo, all nestled within a toasted, buttery bun, delivering a flavorful crunch with every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sheet pan
- Wire rack
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat mallet (optional)
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Large skillet or griddle (for toasting buns)
- Spatula
- Plate or tray (for assembling sandwich)
- Paper towels
- Food thermometer
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 leaves romaine lettuce
- 2 vine-ripe tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 brioche hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Choosing fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts is essential for the Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich's juicy texture. Buttermilk and hot sauce create a flavorful marinade that tenderizes the meat while adding a spicy kick. The flour mixture with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper ensures a well-seasoned, crispy coating. Use vegetable oil with a high smoke point for frying to achieve the perfect crunch without burning. Your homemade Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from the Cheesecake Factory copycat menu will capture the same bold flavors and satisfying texture as the original.
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (optional).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Place chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each chicken breast in seasoned flour, pressing to adhere.
- Preheat deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower chicken breasts into hot oil with tongs; fry until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken; drain on paper towel-lined wire rack.
- Slice tomatoes and prepare lettuce leaves.
- In a skillet or on griddle, melt butter and toast brioche buns until golden.
- Spread mayonnaise on bottom and top buns.
- Place fried chicken breast on bottom bun.
- Top with lettuce and tomato slices.
- Cover with top bun and gently press to assemble.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from The Cheesecake Factory copycat recipe relies heavily on buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor, but if you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. When frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF using a food thermometer to ensure a crispy texture without greasy results. If brioche buns are unavailable, you can use any soft, buttery bread like potato rolls or classic hamburger buns, toasted in butter on a skillet for added flavor. Should you want to reduce the heat level, adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to your taste without compromising the spice profile. Make sure to drain the fried chicken on paper towels or a wire rack to keep the crust crisp before assembling your sandwich.
Tips
Make sure your oil temperature stays steady at 350degF (175degC) for perfectly crispy chicken; use a food thermometer to monitor this closely. When dredging the chicken, press the flour mixture firmly to the meat to create that signature crunchy coating. Toasting the brioche buns in butter adds flavor and prevents sogginess from the mayo and chicken juices. You should assemble the sandwich right before serving to maintain the crisp texture and fresh veggie crunch.
Nutritions
The Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from The Cheesecake Factory provides a substantial protein source from the breaded chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The sandwich includes fresh romaine lettuce and vine-ripe tomatoes, contributing fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support immune function. Mayo and butter add richness and provide fats, which supply energy and aid in nutrient absorption, though they contribute to the calorie content you consume. Choosing this sandwich offers a balance of macronutrients, but be mindful of the sodium and calorie levels inherent in fried and seasoned components.
Storage
Store leftover Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich components separately to maintain freshness and texture; keep the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap brioche buns tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate up to a week. Your best chance at preserving the sandwich's crunch and flavor is to reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350degF until warmed through, while adding fresh lettuce and tomato when ready to serve.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the brioche buns for ciabatta or pretzel buns to add a different texture and flavor profile. Using Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of lemon juice in place of mayonnaise creates a tangier, lighter spread. For a crispier coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the marinade and flour dredging steps before frying. Consider air frying the chicken breasts at 375degF (190degC) for around 20 minutes as a healthier alternative to deep frying, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC).
Allergies
The Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich contains common allergens such as wheat (in the all-purpose flour and bun), eggs (likely present in mayonnaise), and dairy (buttermilk and butter). The sandwich also includes spices like paprika and cayenne pepper, which can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Your allergy concerns should be carefully considered before enjoying this flavorful meal.
Why this recipe?
The Spicy Crispy Chicken Sandwich from Cheesecake Factory features a perfectly breaded chicken breast, seasoned with a bold blend of spices that deliver a satisfying heat and crunch. Its fresh toppings, including crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a tangy sauce, balance the spice and create a flavorful harmony. You will appreciate the complexity of flavors and textures that make this sandwich a standout choice. Attempting to make the copycat version allows you to customize the spice level and enjoy a gourmet-quality sandwich right at home.