The Chicken Sandwich from Jack in the Box features a juicy, crispy fried chicken breast topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and creamy mayonnaise, all nestled between a soft, toasted bun, delivering a satisfying blend of crunchy, fresh, and savory flavors.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Bun toaster or grill
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Prep table
- Spatula
- Squeeze bottle (for mayonnaise)
- Sheet pan or tray
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 hamburger buns
- 2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture, and marinate them in buttermilk to ensure juiciness and tenderness during frying. Make sure to season the flour coating with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to replicate the savory taste accurately. Choose fresh iceberg lettuce and ripe tomato slices to provide a crisp, refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken. Use a soft, toasted bun to hold all ingredients together without overpowering the sandwich. Your Chicken Sandwich from Jack in the Box copycat menu will deliver a satisfying balance of crunchy, fresh, and savory flavors.
Instructions
- Gather all equipment and ingredients.
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to even thickness if needed.
- Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in seasoned flour, thoroughly coating each piece.
- Carefully lower chicken breasts into fryer basket.
- Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C), about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove chicken and drain on a sheet pan or tray lined with paper towels.
- Slice tomato and separate lettuce leaves.
- Toast hamburger buns using bun toaster or grill until golden.
- Spread mayonnaise on bottom buns using squeeze bottle or spatula.
- Place crispy fried chicken breast on each bun.
- Top each chicken breast with lettuce leaves and tomato slices.
- Place top bun over fillings.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Chicken Sandwich from Jack in the Box copycat menu can be customized by substituting boneless chicken thighs for breasts to achieve a juicier texture. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can create a simple substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize the chicken effectively. Vegetable oil is preferred for frying because of its high smoke point, but canola or peanut oil are suitable alternatives for crispiness and flavor. When fresh iceberg lettuce or ripe tomato is out of season or unavailable, crisp romaine lettuce and vine-ripened tomatoes can provide similar freshness and texture. You can adjust mayonnaise with flavored mayo or a light spread to match your taste preferences while maintaining the sandwich's creamy element.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to uniform thickness for even cooking and a tender bite. Maintain the deep fryer temperature at a steady 350degF (175degC) to achieve a perfectly crispy, golden crust without greasy sogginess. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165degF (75degC) to guarantee safe and juicy chicken. When assembling, apply mayonnaise evenly with a squeeze bottle to avoid soggy buns, keeping your sandwich fresh and delicious.
Nutritions
The Chicken Sandwich from Jack in the Box provides a balanced mix of protein from the juicy, fried chicken breast and essential carbohydrates from the toasted bun. Fresh iceberg lettuce and ripe tomato add fiber and vitamins such as vitamin C, promoting overall health. The mayonnaise contributes fats that enhance flavor, but also increases calorie content, so you should consider portion size depending on your dietary goals. Cooking the chicken at 350degF ensures it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165degF, preserving nutrient quality while ensuring food safety.
Storage
To store your Jack in the Box-style Chicken Sandwich, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and maintain crispiness. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 1-2 days to ensure freshness and safety. Avoid freezing assembled sandwiches as the bun and vegetables may become soggy and lose texture quality.
Variation or Alternatives
You can replace buttermilk with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice for marinating the chicken, which tenderizes it while adding a slightly tangy flavor. For a spicier variation, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix or buttermilk marinade. Swap iceberg lettuce with crispy romaine or arugula for a different texture and taste profile. Using a sandwich press or grill pan to lightly press the sandwich after assembly will help meld the flavors and create a warm, crunchy exterior.
Allergies
The Chicken Sandwich from Jack in the Box contains common allergens such as wheat in the all-purpose flour and hamburger buns, as well as eggs and soy, which may be present in the mayonnaise. The sandwich also includes dairy from the buttermilk used in marinating the chicken. You should be cautious if you have sensitivities or allergies to gluten, dairy, eggs, or soy, and always check with the restaurant for detailed allergen information.
Why this recipe?
Jack in the Box's Chicken Sandwich menu is popular due to its crispy, juicy chicken fillets paired with fresh buns and flavorful toppings that create a satisfying texture and taste. The unique seasoning blend and variety of sauces add a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other fast-food options. You can replicate this beloved sandwich at home to enjoy a customizable, delicious meal that captures the essence of a fast-food favorite without leaving your kitchen. Making a copycat version allows you to control ingredients for a fresher, healthier option while saving money on takeout.