Crispy Baked Chicken Sandwiches

In recent years, homemade sandwiches have surged in popularity, becoming a staple in many households. This trend reflects a growing desire for healthier, customizable meal options that don’t compromise on taste. Among the myriad of sandwich possibilities, the Crunchy Crispy Baked Chicken Sandwich stands out as a delightful alternative to the traditional fried versions. This recipe not only satisfies the craving for crispy, savory goodness but also embraces a healthier cooking approach that allows you to enjoy all the flavor without the added grease and calories.

Discover the deliciousness of Crunchy Crispy Baked Chicken Sandwiches, a healthier twist on the classic favorite. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken marinated in buttermilk, coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection for maximum flavor without the excess oil. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches can be customized with your favorite toppings. Join the homemade sandwich trend and enjoy a satisfying meal that's as nutritious as it is tasty.

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Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for an extra kick)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

4 whole grain hamburger buns

4 slices of cheese (your choice: cheddar, provolone, etc.)

Lettuce leaves

Tomato slices

Your favorite sauce (mayo, aioli, or BBQ sauce)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Marinade:

- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce until smooth.

- Horizontally slice each chicken breast in half to create thinner cutlets, which will cook more quickly and remain tender.

- Fully submerge the chicken cutlets in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or for optimal flavor, overnight.

Set Up the Breading Station:

- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

- Place the panko breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl and set aside.

Coat the Chicken:

- Remove each marinated chicken cutlet from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.

- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

- Next, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even and firm coating for extra crispiness.

Bake the Chicken:

- Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken cutlets with cooking spray to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Assemble the Sandwiches:

- While the chicken bakes, lightly toast the whole grain hamburger buns in a toaster or under the broiler until just golden.

- Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through, place a piece of the chicken on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Lay a slice of cheese on top of each piece to allow it to melt slightly.

- Add a layer of fresh lettuce, followed by thin tomato slices, and any sauce of your choice. Complete the sandwich with the top half of the bun.

Serve & Enjoy:

- Serve the warm crispy baked chicken sandwiches alongside a side of sweet potato fries or a vibrant fresh salad for a delightful meal experience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Presentation Tips: Optionally, serve the sandwiches with pickle slices on the side and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on the plate for a pop of color and flavor!