Name: Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts; 2 cups Water; 2 cubes Chicken Bouillon; 1/4 teaspoon Seasoned Salt; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 1/2 cups Finely Crushed Saltine Cracker Crumbs; 2 teaspoons Powdered Sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Paprika; 4 Hamburger Buns; 8 Dill Pickles; 2 tablespoons Butter; Peanut Oil for Frying (You can use vegetable oil.)

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There’s something truly special about a homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich. I remember the first time I attempted to recreate this iconic dish in my kitchen. I had a craving that wouldn’t quit, and the thought of biting into that crispy, juicy chicken, nestled between soft buns and topped with dill pickles, was enough to motivate me. It was a Saturday afternoon, and with the family gathered around, I decided to take a culinary adventure. The aroma of frying chicken filled the air, and soon enough, we were all eagerly anticipating the first bite. It brought back memories of family trips to the drive-thru, but this time, the magic was happening right at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl

Why This Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich Stands Out

A Taste of Nostalgia

Whenever I take a bite of a Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, it feels like a warm hug from the past. This recipe brings back memories of family outings and carefree weekends. The ability to recreate that experience in my own kitchen is something special. You’ll find that every bite is not just food; it’s a memory filled with joy.

Perfectly Crispy Texture

One of the standout features of this sandwich is the perfect crunch of the fried chicken. The combination of all-purpose flour and saltine cracker crumbs creates an unbeatable crispy coating. When you sink your teeth into it, you’ll hear that satisfying crunch, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Customizable Sandwich

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich with your favorite toppings. Whether you like it plain with just pickles or topped with your favorite sauces, the possibilities are endless. It’s your sandwich, after all!

Fun Family Activity

This recipe is perfect for a fun family cooking activity. Kids love to help out in the kitchen, and nothing beats the joy of cooking together. You can have them help with dredging the chicken or assembling the sandwiches. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories while enjoying a delicious meal.

Impressive Presentation

When you plate your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, it looks as good as it tastes. The vibrant colors of the dill pickles against the golden-brown chicken make for a visually appealing dish. You’ll not only be satisfying your craving but impressing your guests as well!

Healthier Homemade Option

Making this sandwich at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives found in fast food. You can choose high-quality chicken and oils, making it a healthier option. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your meal.

What You Need for Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

When it comes to creating the perfect Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, using fresh, quality ingredients is key. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic flavor we all crave. From juicy chicken to crispy coatings, the harmony of these ingredients is what makes the sandwich remarkable.

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein. Ensure they are of good quality to achieve a tender bite.
2 cups water: Used to marinate the chicken, enhancing the flavor and juiciness.
2 cubes chicken bouillon: Adds rich, savory flavor to the marinade.
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt: A must for seasoning, it enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base for the crispy coating.
1 1/2 cups finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs: Adds an extra crunch to the breading.
2 teaspoons powdered sugar: Balances out the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle warmth and color to the breading.
4 hamburger buns: The perfect vessel for your chicken.
8 dill pickles: A must-have topping for that signature flavor.
2 tablespoons butter: Used to brush the buns for added richness.
Peanut oil for frying: Preferred for its high smoke point and flavor, though you can substitute with vegetable oil.

Step by Step Instructions for Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part! Making your own Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!

Start by placing the cool water in a bowl. Add 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt and the 2 cubes chicken bouillon. Stir until the bouillon is dissolved. This mixture will serve as a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
Take the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them in the marinade. Ensure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 12 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, pour off the marinade and discard it. You won’t need it again, so don’t worry about saving it.
In a shallow dish, combine the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups finely crushed saltine cracker crumbs, 2 teaspoons powdered sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika. Stir the mixture until well combined.
Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl. Shake off any excess marinade, then dredge each piece of chicken into the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
After dredging, rest the breaded chicken breasts on a wire rack. Allow them to sit for a few minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the peanut oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. If using a pot, ensure there’s enough oil to be about 4 inches deep.
Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on a clean wire rack. This keeps the coating crisp without getting soggy.
Melt the 2 tablespoons butter and brush it generously on the hamburger buns. This step adds delicious flavor and makes the buns golden.
To assemble, lay one crispy chicken breast on each bottom bun. Top with 2 dill pickle chips, and then place the top bun on.
Your homemade Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich is ready to enjoy! Serve with your favorite sides or just on its own.

Things Worth Knowing

Brining is key: Marinating the chicken in a seasoned water mixture helps keep it moist and flavorful.
Temperature matters: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the coating can absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Resting the chicken: Allowing the breaded chicken to rest before frying helps the coating stay intact.
Checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Helpful Notes about Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

Before diving in, here are some helpful notes to make your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich experience even better!

Storage: Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken without the buns for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Pairing: Serve with homemade fries or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
Customization: Experiment with different toppings such as spicy mayo or coleslaw for added flavor.
Leftover Buns: Use any leftover buns for making sliders or mini sandwiches for your next gathering.

What to Serve With Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich

When it comes to enjoying your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, the sides you choose can elevate the meal. Here are some great ideas:

Classic Fries: A serving of crispy, golden fries pairs perfectly with the sandwich. You can opt for homemade or frozen varieties.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges are another delicious option that complements the sandwich.
Onion Rings: For those who love a bit of crunch, crispy onion rings can make a fantastic side.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides a comforting accompaniment.
Seasonal Salads: A fresh garden salad or a seasonal fruit salad can be a great light side.
Drinks: Pair your meal with refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or a soda for that classic fast-food experience.

FAQ

You can serve your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich with a variety of delicious sides. Classic choices include crispy fries, coleslaw, or potato wedges. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad or seasonal fruit salad works well. Don’t forget about drinks; iced tea or lemonade can really complement the meal!

Yes! You can prep the Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich ahead of time. Marinate the chicken the night before and fry it just before serving. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken without the buns for up to two months, making it a convenient meal option.

For a perfectly crispy Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, ensure that the oil is hot enough before frying. The ideal temperature is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, letting the breaded chicken rest on a wire rack before frying helps the coating adhere better, leading to a crunchier texture. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the fryer to maintain the oil temperature.

Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for your Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, which many people prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly since thighs can be thicker. Be sure to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are fully cooked.

Conclusion

The Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich is a delicious and nostalgic dish that brings the flavors of your favorite fast-food meal right into your home. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for lunch or dinner. I encourage you to try it out and savor every bite. You won’t regret making this sandwich a staple in your recipe collection!