Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich features a juicy, crispy fried chicken breast seasoned with bold spices, topped with fresh lettuce and tangy pickles, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun for a flavorful and satisfying bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Sheet pans
- Wire rack
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Bun toaster or skillet
- Food thermometer
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 brioche buns
- Butter (for toasting buns)
- 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 8 dill pickle chips
Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated in buttermilk mixed with hot sauce to tenderize and infuse heat before dredging in the seasoned flour and cornstarch mixture for optimal crispiness. Use fresh spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper for a balanced bold flavor profile in the breading. Maintain the oil temperature around 350degF using a food thermometer to achieve a golden, crispy crust without overcooking the chicken inside. Toasting brioche buns with butter adds a rich, soft texture that complements the spicy chicken and crisp lettuce. Your Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich from the Pollo Campero copycat menu delivers a perfectly seasoned, juicy fried chicken experience with tangy pickles and fresh lettuce on a toasted bun.
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and cut each into halves for 4 pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Add chicken pieces to marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and water.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip in egg wash, then dredge again in flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place breaded chicken on a wire rack over a sheet pan.
- Preheat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken pieces in batches, 5–7 minutes or until golden, crispy, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer fried chicken to a clean wire rack to drain.
- Butter brioche buns and toast on a skillet or bun toaster until golden.
- Assemble each sandwich: bottom bun, fried chicken, pickle chips, shredded lettuce, top bun.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich from a copycat menu can be customized with alternative spices such as smoked paprika or chipotle powder to adjust heat and flavor intensity. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve the required acidity. For frying, vegetable oil can be replaced with canola or peanut oil for a similar high smoke point and crispiness. Should brioche buns be hard to find, soft sandwich rolls or potato buns work well without compromising texture. Make sure to use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165degF for safety and optimal juiciness.
Tips
Make sure to use a food thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat. When dredging the chicken, press the flour mixture firmly to create a thick, crispy coating that won't fall off during frying. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) for even cooking and to avoid greasy, soggy chicken. Your brioche buns should be buttered and toasted just before assembly to add flavor and prevent them from becoming soggy.
Nutritions
The Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich provides a rich source of protein from the juicy fried chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The breading, made with all-purpose flour and cornstarch, adds carbohydrates which fuel your body, while the mayonnaise-free layering of fresh lettuce and pickles contributes fiber and vitamins with minimal calories. Due to the frying process and buttered brioche buns, the sandwich contains significant amounts of fats, including saturated fats, which should be considered if monitoring heart health. You can balance the meal by pairing it with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to enhance nutrient intake and maintain overall dietary balance.
Storage
Store leftover Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich components separately to maintain freshness and texture; wrap fried chicken pieces in foil or airtight containers and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Keep buns in a breadbox or sealed bag at room temperature to prevent sogginess, and store lettuce and pickles in covered containers in the refrigerator. When reheating, use a wire rack in an oven set at 350degF (175degC) to restore the chicken's crispiness and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with substituting the brioche bun for a whole wheat or gluten-free bun to add different textures or accommodate dietary preferences. Instead of deep frying, try oven-baking the chicken at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes for a lighter version while maintaining crispiness by using a wire rack. Mixing smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the flour coating can enhance the smoky, spicy profile of the crispy chicken. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a spread of garlic aioli or spicy mayo on your toasted buns before assembling the sandwich.
Allergies
The Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy from buttermilk and butter, and wheat in the all-purpose flour and brioche buns. The breading and frying process may also pose a risk for cross-contamination with other allergens if prepared in a shared kitchen. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it is important to verify ingredient sources or consider alternative options to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Pollo Campero Spicy Chicken Sandwich stands out with its bold, flavorful blend of spices that delivers a perfect balance of heat and savory taste, making it a favorite for spice lovers. The crispy, juicy chicken breast is marinated and fried to perfection, creating a satisfying texture contrast that elevates the sandwich experience. You will appreciate the authentic, vibrant flavors that reflect Pollo Campero's unique Latin American roots, making it well worth the effort to recreate at home. Copycat recipes allow you to enjoy this iconic sandwich anytime, customizing spice levels and ingredients to perfectly match your taste preferences.