Description
This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich combines juicy, buttermilk-marinated fried chicken cutlets with classic Caesar salad ingredients, all nestled in a toasted bun. The chicken’s extra crunchy coating pairs perfectly with the creamy Parmesan Caesar dressing and fresh romaine lettuce, making it a satisfying and flavorful main course that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For Assembly:
- 4 sandwich buns, toasted
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Caesar dressing
- Optional lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Place them in a bowl with buttermilk, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds moisture.
- Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning throughout the coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken cutlets from the buttermilk letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each cutlet in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well to the chicken for a crispy crust.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the chicken cutlets for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Then transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread Caesar dressing on the top and bottom halves of each toasted sandwich bun. Layer with a crispy chicken cutlet, shredded romaine lettuce, grated Parmesan cheese, and add more dressing if desired. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges for a bright citrus touch.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use pre-cooked frozen chicken patties to save time.
- Add crispy bacon or sliced tomatoes to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
- Ensure oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust without soaking oil.
- To make it lighter, consider using a low-fat Caesar dressing or whole-wheat buns.