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. One particular contender that stands tall in the world of fast food sandwiches is Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this spicy delight from Zaxby’s.
Before diving into the sandwich itself, I’d like to share what I like to have on the side. A serving of crispy French fries drizzled with ranch dressing pairs perfectly with this sandwich. The crunch of the fries serves as a delightful counterpart to the tender chicken. Plus, you can’t go wrong with a refreshing iced tea to wash it all down.
You will also like the following Appetizer recipes!
- Best Zaxby’s Chicken Bacon Ranch Fries Recipe
- How to make Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers
- Easy Asian Zing Buffalo Wild Wings Recipe
What is Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich?
The Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich is Zaxby’s answer to your cravings for a spicy, crispy chicken sandwich. It features a perfectly seasoned chicken fillet that’s fried to perfection. The breading is crisp, a contrast that juxtaposes beautifully with its juicy interior. The sandwich is finished with Zax Sauce, fresh lettuce, and tomato, all nestled between toasted buns.
It promises a burst of flavor with every bite, making it a go-to choice for anyone in search of something spicy yet satisfying.
The Ingredients
Creating the Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich at home involves a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Fillet:
- Chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Paprika
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Buttermilk (for marination)
- Oil (for frying)
For the Assembly:
- Sandwich buns (toasted)
- Lettuce (shredded)
- Tomato slices
- Zax Sauce or a spicy mayo blend
How to Make Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich?
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.
Storage Tips
Once you make this delicious sandwich, you might have some leftovers. Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Separate Ingredients: If possible, keep the sandwich components separate until ready to eat. This helps maintain the sandwich’s freshness and crunch.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, coated chicken fillets. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich, pair it with the right sides to create a balanced meal. Here are my top picks:
- Crispy Fries: Classic French fries seasoned with a pinch of salt. They offer a satisfying crunch and complement the sandwich perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast. The creaminess cuts through the spice of the chicken.
- Pickles: Dill pickles enhance the flavor. Their crunch and acidity balance the richness of the sandwich.
- Onion Rings: Who can resist crispy onion rings? They add a fun twist and extra crunchiness.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty, potato-filled option that’s just as satisfying as fries.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich?
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these substitutes:
- Tilapia Fillets: Instead of chicken, use tilapia for a lighter, seafood twist. It cooks quickly and pairs well with the same spices.
- Cauliflower Steaks: A vegetarian option, cauliflower can be seasoned and grilled. It captures spices beautifully and adds a filling element.
- Turkey: Replace the chicken with ground turkey patties for a healthier twist while still enjoying the zest of the original.
- Tempeh: For plant-based enthusiasts, tempeh provides a great protein option. Marinate and fry for a satisfying crunch.
- Chickpeas: Mash up and form patties from chickpeas for a delicious vegan option that takes on spices well and is packed with protein.
Zaxby’s Kickin Chicken Sandwich Recipe
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
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance. Just fry it when you’re ready to assemble your sandwich.
2. Is Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich gluten-free?
Traditionally, no. However, you can substitute the flour with gluten-free alternatives to make it gluten-friendly. Ensure no cross-contamination occurs.
3. How spicy is the Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich?
The spice level can vary depending on the seasoning used. If you prefer it mild, adjust the amount of paprika or consider a milder sauce.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake your chicken for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. It’s a healthier option and still delicious.
5. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or toaster oven to maintain the crunch. Microwaving can make it soggy, so avoid that if possible.
Conclusion
Creating Zaxby’s Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich at home is both rewarding and mouthwatering. With simple steps, you can enjoy all the crunchy goodness while customizing it to your liking.
Between the perfectly fried chicken, fresh ingredients, and zesty sauce, it’s no surprise this sandwich has gained a loyal following. Try it out, and let your taste buds embark on an adventure. Happy cooking!
