Chick-fil-A Sandwich Recipe

The Chick-fil-A sandwich is one of the most popular fast-food chicken sandwiches, known for its crispy, juicy fried chicken, soft buttered bun, and signature dill pickles. This homemade version perfectly replicates the flavor, crunch, and tenderness of the original sandwich—made with buttermilk-brined chicken and a seasoned crispy coating.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this Chick-fil-A copycat sandwich right at home—no drive-thru required!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Authentic Chick-fil-A Flavor at Home

• Brined in buttermilk and pickle juice for the signature tender, flavorful chicken.

Crispy, Golden, and Juicy

• The double-dipped breading creates a crispy, crunchy texture while keeping the inside moist.

No Need to Wait in Line

• Get the same great taste without leaving home.

Customizable and Budget-Friendly

• Easily adjust spice levels and save money compared to takeout.

Perfect for Meal Prep

• Make in batches and reheat later for quick meals.

Other Recipes

• Trader Joe’s Ezekiel Bread
• Laughing Cow Cheese

What Is a Chick-fil-A Sandwich?

The Chick-fil-A sandwich is a crispy, seasoned fried chicken breast served on a toasted, buttered bun with dill pickles. The chicken is brined in pickle juice and buttermilk before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to perfection.

Chick-fil-A Sandwich Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 4 sandwich-sized fillets.
• ½ cup dill pickle juice – Tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
• ½ cup buttermilk – Helps keep the chicken juicy and moist.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild spice.

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the crispy coating.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar – Balances flavors with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and mild smokiness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory taste.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds extra spice.
• ½ cup buttermilk (for dredging) – Helps the breading stick.

For Frying:

• 2 cups peanut oil (or vegetable oil) – For deep frying.

For Assembling the Sandwich:

• 4 brioche or potato sandwich buns – Soft and slightly sweet.
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted) – For toasting the buns.
• 8 dill pickle slices – The classic topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Chick-fil-A Sandwich

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Place chicken breasts in a bowl and pour in pickle juice and buttermilk.
• Add salt and black pepper, mix, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

• In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using).
• Pour ½ cup buttermilk into another bowl for dredging.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

• Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
• Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk, then back into the flour mixture for a thick, crispy coating.
• Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes to help the breading adhere.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

• In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat peanut oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully lower chicken into the oil and fry for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
• Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

• Brush brioche buns with melted butter and toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

• Place two dill pickle slices on the bottom bun.
• Add the crispy fried chicken and top with the toasted bun.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve with Chick-fil-A Sandwich

Classic Side Dishes

• Waffle fries – Just like the restaurant.
• Coleslaw – A fresh, crunchy side.
• Mac and cheese – Creamy and indulgent.

Dipping Sauces

• Chick-fil-A sauce – A creamy, smoky, sweet dip.
• Honey mustard – A tangy, slightly sweet option.
• Ranch dressing – A cool, herby contrast.

Beverages

• Fresh-squeezed lemonade – A perfect match.
• Sweet tea – A Southern classic.

Expert Tips for Mastering Chick-fil-A Sandwich

Marinate for the Best Flavor

• Letting the chicken soak in pickle juice and buttermilk keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Double Dredge for Extra Crunch

• Dipping in buttermilk and flour twice ensures a thick, crispy coating.

Use Peanut Oil for an Authentic Taste

• Chick-fil-A fries in peanut oil for a light, crispy texture.

Let the Breading Set Before Frying

• Resting the coated chicken for 5 minutes before frying helps the breading stick.

Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

• Keep the oil at 350°F—too hot will burn the coating, too cool will make it greasy.

Variations of Chick-fil-A Sandwich

Spicy Chick-fil-A Sandwich

• Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and ½ teaspoon of chili powder to the breading.

Grilled Chick-fil-A Sandwich

• Skip the breading and grill marinated chicken for a lighter option.

Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch in the breading.

Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Sandwich

• Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Honey Butter Chicken Sandwich

• Spread honey butter on the bun for a sweet-savory twist.

How to Store Leftover Chick-fil-A Sandwich?

Refrigerate for Up to 3 Days

• Store in an airtight container and keep separate from buns.

Freeze for Longer Storage

• Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat for Best Crispiness

• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals (may soften the coating).

Nutrition Value (Per Serving – 1 Sandwich)

• Calories: 500
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

How do you make Chick-fil-A chicken tender and juicy?

Marinate in pickle juice and buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Can I bake instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What makes Chick-fil-A’s sandwich taste different?

The pickle juice marinade, peanut oil frying, and lightly sweet breading create the signature taste.

Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes! Use canola or vegetable oil if you prefer not to use peanut oil.

Final Words

This Chick-fil-A copycat sandwich delivers crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken that’s just like the original—if not better! Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this easy homemade version will become a go-to favorite. Try it today and enjoy a fast-food classic at home!

Print