Introduction
Imagine biting into a mouthwatering fried chicken sandwich, where the crispy, golden-brown chicken contrasts beautifully with a drizzle of sweet yet spicy jalapeno honey that ignites your taste buds. This delightful creation is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will make your heart sing. Perfect for a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, these Jalapeno Honey Drenched Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches are an irresistible treat that brings comfort and joy to the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- Oil for frying
- 4 brioche buns
- 4 slices of pepper jack cheese
- Fresh jalapenos, sliced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in this flavorful mixture. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- In another bowl, mix the flour and cornmeal together until well combined. This will create a delightful crunchy coating for your chicken!
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess to ensure a perfect fried outer layer.
- In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, about 6-8 minutes per side, until they are a gorgeous golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- While the chicken is still hot, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each piece, allowing it to melt deliciously over the crispy chicken.
- For assembly, place the fried chicken onto the bottom half of each brioche bun. Drizzle generously with the spicy jalapeno honey and top with sliced jalapenos and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
- Cap each sandwich with the top half of the bun and serve immediately to your eager guests!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, consider adding more sliced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the honey. If you prefer a milder version, you can substitute the pepper jack cheese with a creamier cheese like Monterey Jack. And remember, let the chicken rest briefly after frying; this helps keep it juicy!
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving perfectly crispy fried chicken lies in the marination process and maintaining the right oil temperature. Always ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan; this will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains crispy. Dredging in a mixture of flour and cornmeal adds a delightful texture that’s hard to resist!
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
No problem! Chicken breasts can be used, though they may turn out a bit drier than thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your sandwiches fresh, store the fried chicken separately from the buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken in an oven for best results.
Conclusion
These Jalapeno Honey Drenched Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory that make for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Easy to prepare and impossible to resist, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful recipe, and enjoy the burst of flavors that will bring everyone back for seconds!