Here’s a recipe for a Crispy Chicken Bacon Melt Sandwich — juicy, crispy chicken with smoky bacon, melty cheese, and a perfect toasted bun. Let’s dive in:
Crispy Chicken Bacon Melt Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Chicken:
-
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
-
1 cup buttermilk
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bacon:
-
4 slices of thick-cut bacon
For the Sandwich:
-
4 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese like American or Swiss)
-
2 sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns work great)
-
Lettuce leaves (optional)
-
Tomato slices (optional)
-
Mayonnaise or ranch dressing (optional)
-
Pickles (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
-
Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.
-
In a bowl, pour the buttermilk and season with salt and pepper.
-
In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
-
Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat well. For extra crispiness, you can double-dip by repeating the buttermilk and flour step once more.
2. Fry the Chicken:
-
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) or shimmering hot.
-
Carefully place the chicken breasts in the oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
-
Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Cook the Bacon:
-
In a separate skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
-
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
4. Toast the Buns:
-
Spread a little butter on the cut sides of the buns.
-
Toast them in a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
-
Place the crispy chicken on the bottom half of the bun.
-
Immediately top the chicken with 2 slices of cheese while it’s still hot so it melts nicely.
-
Add 2 slices of crispy bacon on top of the cheese.
-
Add lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles if using.
-
Spread mayonnaise or ranch dressing on the top bun.
-
Close the sandwich, press lightly, and serve hot.
Tips:
-
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight.
-
You can swap out the cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella if you want a different taste.
-
Add some spicy mayo (mayo mixed with sriracha) for a kick.