Start by adding the chicken breasts to a large mixing bowl. Pour in the pickle juice and cover the bowl. This is where the magic begins! Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
After marinating, drain the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a crispy coating as moisture will prevent the breading from adhering well.
Next, add peanut oil to a large stovetop pan and heat it over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough for frying, but not so hot that it smokes. A good test is to drop in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, the oil is ready!
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the milk, egg, and hot sauce until well combined. This mixture will help the breading stick to the chicken.
In another medium, shallow bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, powdered sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Once the oil is heated, take each butterflied chicken breast and dunk it into the egg mixture, covering it thoroughly. Allow any excess to drip off.
Next, dip the chicken into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. This will create the crispy outer layer. Work with one piece at a time to ensure even coating.
Carefully drop each piece of chicken into the hot oil. Fry them on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. It’s essential to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent burning. The goal is a perfect crispy crust!
Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process for each piece of chicken.
In a separate skillet, add butter and brioche buns over low-medium heat to toast them lightly. Toasting adds a delicious buttery flavor to the buns.
Now, it’s time to assemble your sandwich! Start with the toasted bun, add a layer of lettuce, followed by the fried chicken breast, a slice of pepper jack cheese, pickle chips, and then finish with the top bun. Each component is vital for that perfect bite.
