Description
A lighter and faster take on the classic Southern fried cutlet. This spicy crunchy chicken sandwich is juicy, crispy, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1–1¼ lb total)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (for the marinade)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch or regular fine crumbs)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (mix into breadcrumbs)
- Additional salt to season the breadcrumb mix, to taste
- 2–4 brioche buns, split and optional lightly toasted
- Lettuce leaves (butter or romaine)
- 1 ripe tomato, sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Whisk buttermilk, cayenne, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Submerge the chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2–6 hours ideal).
- Preheat: Oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Position a rack on a baking sheet if using the oven.
- Prepare coating: Mix smoked paprika into the breadcrumbs and season with a pinch or two of salt. Use panko for maximum crunch.
- Dredge: Remove a breast from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Press both sides firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so the crumbs adhere in an even layer. Repeat.
- Cook — oven method: Place the coated breasts on the wire rack over the baking sheet. Bake for 18–25 minutes until golden and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Let rest 3–5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook — air fryer method: Arrange breasts in a single layer. Air fry 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp is 165°F. Rest 3–5 minutes after cooking.
- Sauce: Mix ½ cup mayonnaise with 1–2 tsp lemon juice, tasting as you go. Optionally fold in a little hot sauce or smoked paprika.
- Assemble: Lightly toast brioche halves. Spread sauce on both bun halves, layer lettuce and tomato, place the crispy chicken, top and serve immediately.
Notes
Optionally add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix for extra heat. Serve hot with crispy sides like fries or coleslaw.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking/Air Frying
- Cuisine: American