Go Back
Close-up of a delicious Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich featuring crispy fried chicken, fresh lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing.

BEST Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is a flavor explosion with crispy, juicy chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and fresh romaine lettuce on a toasted bun. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk and using panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving the perfect crispy texture and tender interior. Follow these steps for an unforgettable meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 700

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups Romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 brioche buns
  • 1 cup vegetable or canola oil for frying

Equipment

  • mixing bowls
  • Shallow dishes
  • whisk
  • large skillet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • wire rack
  • tongs
  • spatula
  • Toaster or oven for buns

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge chicken breasts in the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
  4. In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Remove a chicken breast from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off.
  6. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
  7. Dip the chicken into the whisked eggs, ensuring it's completely covered.
  8. Dredge the chicken in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.
  9. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
  10. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of breadcrumb sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds.
  11. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry in batches if necessary.
  12. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  13. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  14. Lightly toast the buns.
  15. Spread a generous amount of Caesar dressing on both halves of the bun.
  16. Place a bed of romaine lettuce on the bottom bun.
  17. Top with a crispy chicken breast.
  18. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  19. Place the top bun on the sandwich.
  20. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, double dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumb mixture. Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying. Homemade Caesar dressing is recommended for the best flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the chicken will lose its crispiness. Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance.