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Easy Zaxby’s Kickin Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Zaxby’s Kickin Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Kimberly Booker RD
As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I’ve enjoyed countless dishes across all cuisines. However, nothing quite sets my taste buds alight like a good sandwich.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Snacks
Cuisine American
Servings 2 Servings
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • deep skillet or fryer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard new addition for a tangy depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon honey new addition for a hint of sweetness to balance heat
  • 50 ml vegetable oil or use canola oil for a neutral taste
  • 50 ml buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a bit more kick
  • 2 brioche buns
  • 2 fresh lettuce leaves
  • 4 dill pickle slices
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce for extra tang
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce for extra heat

Instructions
 

  • While making this sandwich is straightforward, the key to perfecting it lies in the details. Let’s break it down into manageable steps, so you can create something fantastic in your kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Start with fresh chicken breasts. Tenderize the breasts a bit, making them even in thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  • In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and salt. Place your chicken breasts in this mixture. Let them sit for at least an hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This step is essential for flavor and juiciness.

Step 3: Create the Coating

  • In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. This mixture will form the crunchy coating that makes the sandwich unforgettable.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

  • In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken breasts.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

  • After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

  • Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwich

  • Once your chicken is cooked, let it drain on a paper towel. Toast your sandwich buns lightly. On the bottom half of the bun, add the fried chicken, followed by lettuce and tomato. Drizzle with Zax Sauce or your favorite spicy mayo, top with the other half of the bun, and you’re ready to enjoy!

Notes

Here are some tips to elevate your homemade version:
  • Chicken Size: Choose equally sized chicken breasts. This ensures even cooking and a uniform sandwich.
  • Let it Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest for a minute. This helps retain juices.
  • Homemade Zax Sauce: For those feeling adventurous, whip up a homemade version of Zax Sauce using mayo, ketchup, and a splash of hot sauce.
  • Extra Crispy: For an extra crunch, consider a double-dip technique by re-dipping the chicken in buttermilk and then in the flour mixture again before frying.
  • Bun Choices: Experiment with different buns—Brioche adds a rich flavor and buttery texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 28g
Keyword Zaxby’s Kickin Chicken Sandwich Recipe
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