The KFC Chicken Sandwich from KFC features a juicy, crispy fried chicken fillet seasoned with the brand's signature blend of 11 herbs and spices, nestled between a soft, toasted brioche bun with fresh pickles, creating a flavorful and satisfying combination of crunchy, savory, and tangy elements.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat mallet (optional)
- Thermometer
- Bun toaster or skillet
- Plate/tray for assembly
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 brioche buns
- 8-12 dill pickle chips
Your buttermilk marinade is essential to tenderize and infuse the chicken breasts with moisture and flavor before frying. The combination of 11 herbs and spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and dried thyme, replicates KFC's signature seasoning blend, which is crucial for achieving the authentic taste. Using a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch in the breading ensures a crispy, crunchy coating when fried in vegetable oil at the right temperature. Toasting the brioche buns lightly and adding fresh dill pickle chips balances the crispy chicken with soft and tangy textures. This recipe mimics the popular KFC Chicken Sandwich from KFC copycat menus, delivering a satisfying blend of crunchy, savory, and tangy flavors.
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness using meat mallet (if needed).
- Slice chicken breasts in half to form 4 fillets.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg until combined.
- Add chicken fillets to buttermilk mixture, cover, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, celery salt, white pepper, black pepper, dried mustard, ground ginger, salt, ground allspice, and chili powder.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each fillet in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place coated chicken on wire rack set over baking sheet.
- Working in batches, fry chicken fillets until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C), about 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer fried chicken to clean wire rack to drain.
- Toast brioche buns using bun toaster or skillet.
- Assemble sandwich: Place fried chicken fillet on bottom bun, add 2–3 dill pickle chips, and top with other half of bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The KFC Chicken Sandwich copycat recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful fried chicken fillet seasoned with a blend of 11 herbs and spices, similar to the original. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve the same tenderizing effect. When frying, maintain the oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) to ensure a golden crust without overcooking the chicken inside. If brioche buns are out of reach, soft hamburger buns or potato rolls work well as alternatives to maintain the sandwich's tender texture. Your pickles can be swapped with bread and butter or spicy pickles depending on your taste preference.
Tips
Marinating the chicken fillets in the buttermilk and egg mixture for at least one hour tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor absorption. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption without overcooking. Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a crispy, even crust that stays intact during frying. Toasting the brioche buns just before assembly adds a warm, slightly crisp texture that balances the juicy chicken and tangy pickles in your sandwich.
Nutritions
The KFC Chicken Sandwich provides a substantial source of protein from the boneless chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The breading, made from all-purpose flour and spices, contributes carbohydrates and a moderate amount of fat due to deep frying in vegetable oil. The sandwich also delivers vitamins from herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, and oregano, while dill pickles add a low-calorie source of sodium and antioxidants. Your meal's calorie content can vary but typically ranges around 600-700 calories, balancing taste with nutritional value when enjoyed in moderation.
Storage
To store your KFC Chicken Sandwich leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to retain moisture and prevent the bun from drying out. Place the wrapped sandwich in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350degF (175degC) until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption and optimal crispiness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the brioche bun with a ciabatta roll or a potato bun for a different texture and flavor profile. Try marinating the chicken in a spicy buttermilk mixture by adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper to enhance the heat level. Experiment with air frying the coated chicken fillets at 375degF for 12-15 minutes as a healthier alternative to deep frying. For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk mixture before a second coating of the seasoned flour mixture.
Allergies
The KFC Chicken Sandwich contains multiple common allergens including wheat from the all-purpose flour and brioche buns, eggs from the large egg used in the batter, and dairy from the buttermilk. Cross-contamination with other allergens is also possible during preparation in commercial kitchens. You should carefully review ingredient lists and consult with KFC staff if you have specific allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
KFC Chicken Sandwich menu from KFC restaurant is loved for its crispy, flavorful pressure-fried chicken paired with soft, buttery buns and signature creamy mayo, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The unique blend of 11 herbs and spices in the chicken coating delivers a distinct savory profile that sets it apart from other fast-food sandwiches. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this crave-worthy experience at home, controlling ingredient quality and customizing flavors to your preference. Your homemade KFC-style chicken sandwich offers satisfying indulgence while being a cost-effective alternative to dining out.