Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

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Crispy, juicy, and bursting with bold flavors, this Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce is everything a comfort food lover dreams of. Perfectly seasoned chicken is fried to golden perfection, then slathered with a smoky, zesty homemade sauce that takes the whole experience up a notch. Tucked between buttery toasted buns and layered with crisp pickles and fresh greens, this sandwich delivers a delicious balance of heat and creaminess in every bite.

Whether you’re planning a laid-back weekend meal, spicing up your lunch routine, or hosting game-day gatherings, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress. The homemade sauce, with its subtle tang and a kiss of spice, complements the crunchy chicken without overpowering it. It’s the kind of sandwich you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

• Crispy and Juicy: The chicken is fried to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.
• Custom Heat Level: Adjust the spice in the sauce and the chicken seasoning to match your heat tolerance.
• Crowd Favorite: Great for game day, picnics, or a casual dinner that feels indulgent.
• Better Than Takeout: Skip the drive-thru! You can make this crave-worthy sandwich right at home with clean ingredients.
• That Sauce!: Creamy, smoky, and just spicy enough—this homemade sauce ties everything together beautifully.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting the best results starts with having the right tools in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Deep Fryer: Essential for evenly frying the chicken and achieving that signature crunch.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Wire Rack & Sheet Pan: Prevents soggy breading by allowing fried chicken to drain properly.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating, dredging, and mixing the sauce.
• Whisk or Spoon: Blends the creamy sauce to a smooth finish.
• Tongs: Safe and easy handling of hot fried chicken.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

• Chicken Breast Fillets: Boneless and skinless for even cooking.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while infusing tangy flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Brings the heat into the marinade.
• All-Purpose Flour & Cornstarch: The perfect combo for crispy coating.
• Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt & pepper.
• Vegetable Oil: For deep frying.
• Brioche Buns: Soft yet structured for the ideal sandwich hold.
• Dill Pickles & Fresh Greens: Add crunch and brightness.
• Mayonnaise, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Lemon Juice: Sauce ingredients for a bold creamy finish.

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How To Make the Spicy Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Homemade Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Soak the chicken in a mix of buttermilk and hot sauce. Chill for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Mix flour, cornstarch, and spices. Coat the marinated chicken thoroughly.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil to 350°F. Fry each fillet for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and 165°F inside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Blend mayonnaise, smoked paprika, chili powder, lemon juice, and salt.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter and toast brioche buns until golden.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich

Layer lettuce, crispy chicken, pickles, and plenty of sauce on the buns.

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Serving and Storing Your Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Serve immediately for maximum crunch. Pair with fries, coleslaw, or a crisp salad.

To store:

• Fried chicken: Refrigerate up to 3 days.
• Sauce: Store in a sealed container for 1 week.
• Buns & toppings: Assemble fresh before serving.

Reheat chicken in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this sandwich less spicy?

Yes, reduce hot sauce and skip cayenne in the flour mix.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes. Bake at 425°F on a wire rack for 25-30 minutes.

What other sauces work well?

Ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli are delicious alternatives.

How do I prevent soggy breading?

Let breaded chicken rest before frying. Use a wire rack after frying.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and just as flavorful.

Dairy-free buttermilk option?

Use almond milk with a spoonful of vinegar or lemon juice.

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Want More Chicken Sandwich or Wrap Ideas?

If you enjoyed this spicy, crispy chicken sandwich, here are a few more ideas to keep your meal rotation exciting:

• Try the juicy and flavorful Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
• Go saucy with our Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce
• For a lighter take, check out Tzatziki Chicken Veggie Naan Pizza
• Spice it up with our bold Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
• Don’t miss the creamy combo in Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in chicken thighs or spice it up with extra cayenne? Maybe you used a different bun or added cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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