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Crispy Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Style Chicken Sandwich

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A quick and easy homemade version of the iconic Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, featuring juicy, tender chicken with a crispy air-fried crust and classic pickle flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 thin fillets
  • 1 cup dill pickle juice
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
  • 4 soft sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns)
  • 4 dill pickle slices
  • Mayonnaise or preferred sandwich spread
  • Optional: lettuce, tomato slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine by whisking together dill pickle juice, cold water, sugar, and kosher salt until dissolved.
  2. Halve chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Submerge chicken pieces in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Mix the dry breading ingredients: all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and whole milk until smooth.
  6. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
  7. Dip each chicken piece into the wet mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the dry flour mixture, pressing to create a good crust.
  8. Place coated chicken pieces on a lined plate.
  9. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
  10. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  11. Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them.
  12. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the tops with cooking spray for extra crunch, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
  13. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun, add the crispy chicken, top with dill pickle slices, and close with the top bun. Add optional lettuce or tomato if desired.
  14. Serve immediately while the crust is crisp and the chicken is juicy.

Notes

Do not skip the brine as it tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. Pat chicken dry before breading to help coating stick. Spray chicken lightly with cooking spray before air frying for a golden crust. Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A style, crispy chicken sandwich, homemade chicken sandwich, quick chicken recipe, easy dinner, air fryer recipe

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