Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup buttermilk

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon salt (for aioli)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (for aioli)

4 brioche buns

Leafy romaine lettuce

Sliced tomatoes

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine buttermilk and Cajun seasoning. Add chicken breasts, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).

Step 4: Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off. Dredge the chicken evenly in the seasoned flour mixture.

Step 5: Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

Step 6: While the chicken cooks, prepare the garlic aioli by mixing mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.

Step 7: Once cooked, transfer chicken to paper towels to drain and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 8: To assemble, spread garlic aioli on the bottom half of each brioche bun. Layer with romaine lettuce, a slice of tomato, and the crispy chicken. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, double dredge the chicken by dipping it again in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.

Substitute the brioche buns with ciabatta or potato rolls for a different texture and flavor.

Add pickles or sliced avocado for extra layers of flavor and creaminess.

If you prefer baking, cook the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before marinating to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this sandwich?

The Cajun seasoning gives a moderate spice level with a blend of paprika, garlic, and cayenne. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or choose a mild seasoning mix.