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Copycat Chick-fil-A Sandwich Recipe

4.6 from 388 reviews

This Copycat Chick-fil-A Sandwich recipe offers a delicious homemade version of the iconic fast-food classic, featuring perfectly seasoned and crispy fried chicken breasts served on soft hamburger buns with your choice of toppings and the famous Chick-fil-A sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Kosher salt (2 teaspoons total, divided)
  • Freshly ground pepper (1 1/2 teaspoons total, divided)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika plus 1/2 teaspoon paprika, divided
  • Peanut oil, at least 2 inches for frying

Batter and Coating

  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup nonfat milk
  • 1 tablespoon pickle juice (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon malted milk powder
  • 1 tablespoon confectioners sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

To Serve

  • 4 soft hamburger buns, split and lightly toasted
  • Chick-fil-A sauce
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Lettuce (optional)
  • Cheese slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound each chicken breast to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness to ensure even cooking and easier frying. Season both sides of the chicken with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper. Set aside.
  2. Heat the Oil: In a heavy bottom pan, pour at least 2 inches of peanut oil. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 325°F on a deep-fry thermometer or until small drops of water sizzle and evaporate upon contact.
  3. Prepare Wet and Dry Mixtures: In a baking dish, whisk together the egg, nonfat milk, pickle juice (if using), and 2 tablespoons water. In a separate dish, combine the all-purpose flour, malted milk powder, confectioners sugar, baking soda, dry mustard, remaining 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken breast first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  5. Dredge in Flour Mixture: Transfer the chicken to the flour mixture and dredge fully, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
  6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot peanut oil. Fry for about 4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain temperature. Once done, drain the chicken on paper towels.
  7. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place the fried chicken breasts on lightly toasted buns. Add desired toppings such as pickles, lettuce, or a slice of cheese, then spread Chick-fil-A sauce on the buns. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Flattening the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
  • Maintaining the oil temperature at 325°F is crucial to prevent greasy or undercooked chicken.
  • Pickle juice is optional but adds a signature tang to the batter.
  • Use peanut oil for authentic flavor and proper frying performance.
  • Lightly toasting the buns adds texture and prevents sogginess.
  • Adjust seasoning in batter or chicken according to your taste preferences.

Keywords: Chick-fil-A, chicken sandwich, fried chicken, copycat recipe, fast food, homemade chicken sandwich