Craving that iconic Chick-fil-A taste but want to make it at home? This copycat Chick-fil-A crispy chicken sandwich recipe delivers all the flavors you love with a perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken breast and that signature crispy coating. After countless attempts to recreate this beloved sandwich, I’ve finally cracked the code to achieve that restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special weekend meal, this homemade version rivals the original in every way. The secret lies in the brine, the seasoning blend, and the cooking technique that creates that perfect golden-brown crust while keeping the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful inside.
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Medium
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Brining Time: 2-4 hours (or overnight)
Total Time: 3-5 hours
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Estimated Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Copycat Chick-fil-A Crispy Chicken Sandwich
For the Chicken Brine:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 4 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 pickle slices
- 4 leaves butter lettuce (optional)
- Mayonnaise (optional)
For Frying:
- 6-8 cups peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
Equipment and Utensils Required
- Large mixing bowl for brining
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Plastic wrap
- Two shallow dishes for coating setup
- Wire cooling rack
- Paper towels
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Cooking thermometer
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Baking sheet
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Brine
Dissolve the kosher salt and sugar in warm water, stirring until completely dissolved. Add pickle juice, garlic powder, and onion powder to create the brine. Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet, then place them in the brine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 2: Create the Seasoned Flour Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. This signature seasoning blend is what gives the coating its distinctive Chick-fil-A flavor profile.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
Beat the eggs with buttermilk and pickle juice in a shallow dish. The pickle juice adds that subtle tangy flavor that makes this chicken sandwich recipe so authentic.
Step 4: Set Up Your Coating Station
Remove the chicken from the brine and pat completely dry with paper towels. Arrange your coating station: seasoned flour mixture in one dish, egg wash in another, and a clean plate for the coated chicken.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
Pour oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, ensuring it’s at least 3 inches deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then coat again in the flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well. This double-coating technique creates the signature crispy texture.
Step 7: Fry the Chicken
Carefully lower 2 pieces of chicken into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcrowd the pot as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy coating.
Step 8: Drain and Rest
Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute while maintaining the crispy coating.
Step 9: Prepare the Buns
While the chicken rests, brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with melted butter and toast them in a skillet or under the broiler until golden brown. This adds extra flavor and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
Step 10: Assemble Your Sandwich
Place the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, add pickle slices, and top with the toasted bun. Add lettuce and mayonnaise if desired. Your homemade copycat Chick-fil-A crispy chicken sandwich is ready to enjoy!
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Success:
- Don’t skip the brine: The salt and sugar solution ensures juicy, flavorful chicken throughout
- Use a thermometer: Both for oil temperature and chicken doneness to guarantee perfect results
- Rest the coated chicken: Let it sit for 5 minutes before frying to help the coating stick better
- Maintain oil temperature: Between 325-350°F for optimal frying
Chicken Air Fryer Sandwich Variation:
For a healthier version, you can make this as a chicken air fryer sandwich. After coating, spray the chicken with cooking oil and air fry at 380°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method reduces oil while still achieving a crispy exterior.
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper and hot sauce to the brine
- Herb-Crusted: Include fresh herbs like rosemary or sage in the coating
- Buttermilk Ranch: Mix ranch seasoning into the flour coating for a tangy twist
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, use an oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
This copycat restaurant recipe pairs perfectly with:
- Crispy waffle fries
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Sweet potato fries
- Pickled vegetables
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (1 sandwich):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 1,240mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why This Copycat Recipe Works
The magic of this copycat Chick-fil-A crispy chicken sandwich lies in understanding the science behind the original. The brine not only seasons the chicken throughout but also helps retain moisture during cooking. The combination of pickle juice in both the brine and egg wash adds that distinctive tangy flavor that makes Chick-fil-A sandwiches so craveable.
The coating blend mimics the restaurant’s proprietary seasoning, with powdered sugar adding subtle sweetness and helping achieve that golden color. The double-coating technique ensures maximum crispiness, while the specific frying temperature and timing replicate the professional cooking methods used in the restaurant.
This chicken sandwich recipe has become a favorite among home cooks who want to recreate their favorite fast-food experience. Unlike other sandwich recipes that fall short, this version captures the essence of what makes the original so special – juicy, well-seasoned chicken with an incredibly crispy coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this copycat Chick-fil-A sandwich ahead of time?
Yes! You can brine the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The coated chicken can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before frying. However, for best results, fry the chicken just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness.
What’s the best oil for frying this chicken sandwich?
Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which is what Chick-fil-A uses. Vegetable oil or canola oil are good alternatives if you have peanut allergies.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even more flavorful and juicy. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take 1-2 minutes longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
How can I make this copycat recipe healthier?
Try the air fryer method mentioned above, or you can bake the chicken at 425°F for 20-25 minutes. You can also use whole wheat buns and add more vegetables like tomatoes and lettuce.
Why is my coating not staying crispy?
Common issues include oil temperature too low, chicken not properly dried before coating, or overcrowding the fryer. Make sure to maintain 350°F oil temperature and let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying instead of paper towels.
This copycat Chick-fil-A crispy chicken sandwich recipe brings the beloved restaurant experience right to your kitchen. The combination of proper brining, seasoned coating, and careful frying technique creates a sandwich that rivals the original in every way. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this homemade version delivers that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful chicken that makes Chick-fil-A sandwiches so irresistible.
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how your copycat chicken sandwich turned out! Don’t forget to share photos of your creation on social media – I love seeing your homemade versions of this classic sandwich recipe.
Looking for more copycat restaurant recipes? Check out our other popular recreations of your favorite fast-food classics, including copycat fries, sauces, and more chicken sandwich recipes that bring restaurant flavors home.
