French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is the ultimate indulgence, combining sweet and savory flavors in one delicious bite. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a unique dinner, this sandwich features crispy fried chicken enveloped in golden French toast, all drizzled with a tantalizing bourbon sweet chili sauce. It’s a delightful twist on classic comfort food that will wow your taste buds and impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: This sandwich pairs the sweetness of French toast with the savory crunch of fried chicken, making it an unforgettable meal.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish suits any occasion and satisfies various cravings.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to switch up the sauces or toppings to suit your taste preferences; this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve this sandwich to guests, and they’ll be impressed by both the look and taste—a true showstopper on any table.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken in advance, allowing for a quicker cooking time when you’re ready to enjoy this tasty treat.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for frying chicken evenly while maintaining the right oil temperature for crispy results.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing ingredients without spills or mess.
- Whisk: Useful for combining wet ingredients smoothly—important for achieving a uniform batter.
Ingredients
This is the best Sweet and Hot French Toast Chicken Sandwich you will ever have! It’s essentially a French Toast sandwich with fried chicken covered in a bourbon sweet chili sauce.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 Chicken Thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Frying Batter
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp Tony’s seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tbsp chili sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- Dash sriracha
For Assembly
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
- 4 slices brioche bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- Pinch salt
How to Make French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Wash and clean chicken with lemon and vinegar. Trim off any extra fat and pat dry with paper towel.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine chicken, buttermilk, salt, and white pepper. Marinate in refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours; longer is better.
Step 3: Heat Oil
Heat 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Prepare Frying Batter
In a wide bowl, add self-rising flour, onion powder, garlic, paprika, and Tony’s seasoning. Mix well before use.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade. Dip each piece into the flour mixture until well coated. Fry two pieces at a time until golden brown and cooked through—about 7 minutes per side. Rest cooked chicken on a rack to cool.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small pot. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Let cool before using.
This delectable French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Serving your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a meal at home, these suggestions will elevate your dish and impress your guests.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- Adding fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries brings a bright, refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Drizzle with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness that complements the bourbon sweet chili sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
Serve with Pickles
- A side of pickles provides a crunchy, tangy bite that balances the richness of the fried chicken and toast.
Include a Side Salad
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing element that cuts through the heaviness of the sandwich.
Add a Creamy Coleslaw
- Creamy coleslaw pairs well by providing crunch and creaminess, making each bite even more satisfying.
Offer Extra Sauce on the Side
- Having extra bourbon sweet chili sauce available allows guests to customize their sandwiches to their liking.
How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
To achieve perfection in your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 2 hours deepens the flavor and makes it juicier.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and herbs elevate the taste significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350 degrees ensures a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken inside.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing cooked chicken to rest prevents sogginess and helps maintain its crispy texture.
- Experiment with Breads: While brioche is delicious, trying different breads like challah can add unique flavors and textures.
- Add Cheese: A slice of cheese melted on top before serving can create an indulgent twist on this classic sandwich.
Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Complementing your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with tasty side dishes can make for an unforgettable meal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns add crunch and are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with savory chicken.
- Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the sandwich.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad provides comfort food vibes that pair well with fried dishes.
- Potato Salad: This classic side adds creaminess and flavor, making it an ideal companion for your sandwich.
- Fruit Salad: A fruity medley refreshes palates between bites of savory chicken, adding brightness to your plate.
- Deviled Eggs: Simple yet delicious, deviled eggs are always a hit and complement any brunch spread perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- seasoning choices: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Always season both the marinade and the flour mix for maximum flavor.
- frying temperature: Frying at too low a temperature can result in greasy chicken. Ensure your oil is at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for crispy, golden-brown results.
- marinating time: Not marinating long enough may leave the chicken dry. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for juicy chicken.
- bread selection: Using the wrong type of bread can affect texture. Opt for brioche or another thick bread that holds up well when soaked and fried.
- sauce preparation: Rushing the sauce preparation may result in uneven flavors. Let it simmer properly to enhance the taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your sandwich in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap, then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; this may make the bread soggy.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warm and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich that can help you make this dish even better.
Can I use different types of meat in my sandwich?
You can definitely substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
What is the best bread for a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?
Brioche is ideal due to its thickness and ability to soak up flavors without falling apart.
How do I customize my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?
Feel free to add toppings like avocado, pickles, or different sauces based on your preferences!
What sides pair well with this sandwich?
Consider serving it with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sandwich.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Try using whole grain bread and grilling instead of frying the chicken for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different toppings or sides. This recipe promises satisfaction, comfort, and joy in every bite! So why not give it a try?
French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich—a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. This innovative dish features crispy fried chicken nestled between slices of golden brioche French toast, all topped with a delectable bourbon sweet chili sauce. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a unique dinner, this sandwich is sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal experience. With its easy customization options and impressive presentation, it’s a must-try for any food lover looking to satisfy their cravings.
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Thighs
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups Self-Rising Flour
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp Tony’s seasoning
- 1 cup Apricot Preserves
- 1 tbsp chili sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup Bourbon
- Dash sriracha
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
- 4 slices Brioche Bread
- 4 large Eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- Pinch salt
Instructions
- Clean the chicken and pat dry. Marinate in buttermilk, salt, and white pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the frying batter by mixing self-rising flour with onion powder, garlic, paprika, and seasoning.
- Coat marinated chicken in the batter and fry until golden brown, about 7 minutes per side.
- For the sauce, simmer apricot preserves, chili sauce, honey, bourbon, and sriracha until thickened.
- Assemble by dipping brioche in an egg mixture and frying until golden. Layer fried chicken and drizzle with sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (350g)
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 1300mg
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
