French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a game-changer! Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even dinner, this dish combines the sweetness of French toast with crispy fried chicken. Topped with a bourbon sweet chili sauce, it boasts a delightful balance of flavors that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet and savory makes each bite memorable.
- Versatile Meal Option: Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; it’s perfect for any time of day.
- Impressive Presentation: This sandwich looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for gatherings.
- Easy to Customize: You can adjust the spice level or sauces according to your taste preferences.
- Satisfying Comfort Food: A hearty meal that will fill you up and leave you wanting more.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into making the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wide bowl for coating chicken
- Rack for resting fried chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for frying chicken evenly while minimizing oil splatter.
- Wide bowl for coating chicken: Provides ample space for easy dredging of chicken in flour.
- Rack for resting fried chicken: Keeps the chicken crispy by allowing air circulation underneath.
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
- 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 chicken with lemon and vinegar, trim off any extra fat, and pat dry with paper towel.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium-size bowl, add chicken, buttermilk, salt, white pepper. Marinate in refrigerator for 30 minutes – 2 hours; the longer, the better.
Step 3: Heat Oil
Heat 1 ½ inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot to 350 degrees.
Step 4: Prepare Coating Mixture
In a wide bowl, add flour, onion powder, garlic, paprika, and Tony’s seasoning. Set aside.
Step 5: Coat and Fry Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dip each piece in the flour mixture until well coated. Fry two pieces of chicken at a time until golden brown and cooked through (about 7 minutes per side). Rest cooked chicken on a rack to cool.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a small pot. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes and let it cool. Enjoy!
How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Serving your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich can elevate the experience. Whether it’s for a brunch gathering or a cozy dinner, these suggestions will enhance your meal.
Classic Pairings
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over your sandwich for a sweet touch.
- Spicy Aioli: A tangy, spicy aioli can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Pickles: Serve with crunchy pickles to balance the richness of the chicken.
Creative Additions
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds creaminess and a healthy twist.
- Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw brings crunch and freshness to the plate.
- Fried Egg: Top it off with a runny fried egg for added richness.
Serving Style
- Open-Faced: Serve as an open-faced sandwich for a beautiful presentation.
- Sliders: Cut into smaller pieces for sliders, perfect for sharing at parties.
How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Perfecting your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is all about technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich turns out delicious every time.
- Use Quality Bread: Choose thick, fresh brioche bread for the best texture.
- Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than two hours for deeper flavor.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350 degrees to ensure crispy chicken without greasiness.
- Rest After Frying: Let fried chicken rest on a rack to maintain its crispiness.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces beyond bourbon sweet chili for variety.
Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
Complement your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with these delightful side dishes. Each one enhances the overall meal experience.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they pair perfectly with the savory sandwich.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your plate.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting classic that balances flavors well.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy crunch alongside your dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn offers sweetness and a fun summer vibe.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is perfect for those who enjoy classic sides at brunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich might seem simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying. Cooking too long can dry out the chicken. Aim for golden brown and cooked through.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: The flour mixture is your chance to add flavor. Don’t skimp on spices like paprika and garlic powder; they make a big difference!
- Using Stale Bread: Fresh brioche bread is key for a satisfying texture. Avoid using stale or dry bread, as it won’t absorb the egg mixture properly.
- Neglecting the Sauce: The bourbon sweet chili sauce elevates this sandwich. Be mindful of simmering it just enough to enhance flavors without burning.
- Rushing through Assembly: Take your time when building your sandwich. Layering ingredients thoughtfully ensures every bite is flavorful.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months; this keeps them tasting fresh.
Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat sandwiches for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may make the bread soggy, so use sparingly.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, allowing the exterior to crisp up again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich.
What makes the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich special?
This sandwich combines sweet and savory flavors with crispy fried chicken and a rich bourbon sweet chili sauce, creating a unique taste experience.
Can I customize my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?
Absolutely! You can try different sauces, add cheese, or even incorporate vegetables like lettuce or pickles for extra flavor and texture.
How do I ensure my fried chicken stays juicy?
Marinating your chicken in buttermilk is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful during frying.
What type of bread is best for this sandwich?
Brioche bread works wonderfully due to its sweetness and ability to hold up against the moist ingredients without falling apart.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
How do I serve my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?
Serve it hot off the stove with a drizzle of bourbon sweet chili sauce on top. It pairs beautifully with sides like coleslaw or fries!
Final Thoughts
The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by experimenting with toppings or sauces. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting dish that will surely impress your family and friends!
French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich. This innovative dish masterfully combines crispy fried chicken sandwiched between sweet and fluffy French toast, all drizzled with a rich bourbon sweet chili sauce. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite at your table. Impress your family and friends with its delightful flavors and stunning presentation—this is not just a meal; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
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
- 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
- 1 tbsp chili sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- Dash sriracha
Instructions
- Clean and marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat marinated chicken in a seasoned flour mixture and fry until golden brown.
- For French toast, whisk eggs, milk, and spices; dip brioche slices and fry in butter until golden.
- Prepare the sauce by simmering apricot preserves, bourbon, and chili sauce for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the sandwich by layering fried chicken between two slices of French toast and drizzle with the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (250g)
- Calories: 690
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
