French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful twist on your traditional breakfast and lunch fare. Imagine crispy fried chicken nestled between sweet, fluffy French toast, all drizzled with a bourbon sweet chili sauce. Perfect for brunch gatherings, casual lunches, or even a festive meal, this sandwich is sure to impress with its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet and savory makes every bite a flavor explosion.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Crispy & Juicy: The fried chicken stays juicy inside while the outside is perfectly crispy.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up to guests or family and watch their eyes light up!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, gathering the right tools will streamline the process. Having the correct equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Frying rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for frying chicken evenly and maintaining consistent heat.
- Mixing bowls: Perfect for marinating chicken and mixing sauces without confusion.
- Frying rack: Keeps fried chicken crispy by allowing excess oil to drain off.
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 Fried Chicken
- 4 Chicken Thighs
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp Tony’s seasoning
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs (add in after marinated when ready to fry)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tbsp chili sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- Dash sriracha
For the French Toast
- 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 the chicken with lemon and vinegar. Trim off any extra fat and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk, salt, and white pepper. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours — longer marination yields better flavor.
Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying
Heat 1 ½ inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In a wide bowl, mix together self-rising flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and Tony’s seasoning. Set aside for coating.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Remove chicken from buttermilk 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. Let cooked chicken rest on a rack to cool.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
To create your sauce, combine all sauce ingredients in a small pot. Simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes until thickened slightly. Allow it to cool before drizzling over your sandwich.
Now that you have all these steps outlined, you’re ready to create an unforgettable French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich! Enjoy each delicious bite!
How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Serving the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich can elevate your meal experience, making it a perfect dish for brunch or a casual dinner. Here are some delightful ways to serve this unique sandwich.
Classic Style
- Serve with crispy fries for a comforting touch.
- Pair with a side salad for a fresh contrast.
Sweet Touch
- Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Add fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries on the side.
Spicy Kick
- Include pickles to enhance the flavor profile.
- Offer hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Gourmet Twist
- Top with avocado slices for creaminess.
- Use artisan bread instead of brioche for a rustic feel.
How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
To achieve the best version of your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, consider these tips. They will ensure every bite is delicious and satisfying.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 2 hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the taste significantly.
- Monitor oil temperature: Keeping the oil at 350 degrees ensures even cooking and prevents greasy chicken.
- Double-dip for crunch: For extra crispiness, dip chicken in buttermilk again before coating it in flour.
- Let it rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest on a rack; this keeps it crispy and prevents sogginess from steam.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different sauces or toppings to customize your sandwich experience.
Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Complement your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These add a sweet and savory element that pairs perfectly with fried chicken.
- Macaroni Salad: A creamy side that offers a comforting companion to your sandwich.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Offers a sweet crunch that complements the flavors of the sandwich well.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a hearty addition that everyone loves.
- Garden Salad: A light salad brings freshness and color to your plate, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to keep in mind.
- Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to dry meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Failing to properly coat the chicken: A thick, even coating of flour is essential for a crispy crust. Make sure to fully coat each piece before frying.
- Not maintaining oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to keep it at 350 degrees.
- Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Ignoring egg mixture ratios: Too much or too little milk or eggs can affect the texture of your French toast. Stick to the recommended proportions for a perfect blend.
- Rushing the sauce: Allowing your sauce to simmer properly enhances its flavor. Take your time for a richer taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure that the sandwich is cooled completely before sealing.
Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped sandwiches for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently so it doesn’t become soggy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich.
How do I customize my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?
You can add different toppings like avocado, bacon, or even cheese. Experiment with flavors that you love!
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While brioche is ideal, you can try challah, sourdough, or even whole-grain bread for a unique twist.
What can I serve with this sandwich?
Pair it with fresh fruit, a side salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal experience.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare components in advance and assemble them when ready to eat, making it great for meal prep.
How do I make this sandwich healthier?
Consider using grilled chicken instead of fried and whole grain bread. You could also reduce the amount of sauce used.
Final Thoughts
The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite flavors or sides. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this sandwich promises satisfaction and joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!
French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delectable French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, a creative spin on classic breakfast and lunch. Picture juicy, crispy fried chicken layered between golden, fluffy French toast, all drizzled with a tantalizing bourbon sweet chili sauce. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or casual dinners and promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 slices brioche bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- 1/2 cup bourbon
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 tbsp Tony’s seasoning
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- Pinch salt
Instructions
- Clean and trim chicken thighs, then marinate in buttermilk with salt and white pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F.
- Mix flour and spices in a bowl for coating.
- Coat marinated chicken in the flour mix and fry until golden brown (about 7 minutes per side).
- In a saucepan, combine sauce ingredients and simmer until thickened.
- For French toast, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg; dip brioche slices and fry until golden.
- Assemble the sandwich by layering fried chicken on French toast and drizzle with sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
