French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful fusion that makes for a perfect meal at any time of day. Combining sweet and savory elements, this dish features crispy fried chicken enveloped in decadent French toast, topped with a unique apple juice sweet chili sauce. Ideal for brunches, picnics, or even a cozy dinner, this sandwich brings comfort food to the next level with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this sandwich suits any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish without hassle.
• Impressive Presentation: The stunning layers make it a showstopper at gatherings and family meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting and delicious sandwich.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to streamline your preparation.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Frying rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for frying chicken evenly and maintaining the right temperature.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and preparing the batter.
• Whisk: Helps to blend ingredients smoothly for marinades and egg mixtures.
• Frying rack: Allows excess oil to drain off the chicken after frying, keeping it crispy.

Ingredients

This is the best Sweet and Hot French Toast Chicken Sandwich you will ever have! It’s essentially a French Toast sandwich with fried chicken covered in an apple juice sweet chili sauce.

For the Fried Chicken

• 4 Chicken Thighs
• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1/2 tbsp Tony’s seasoning
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 eggs (add in after marinated when ready to fry)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup apricot
• 1 tbsp chili sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup apple juice
• Dash sriracha

For the French Toast

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
• 4 slices brioche bread
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• pinch nutmeg
• pinch salt

How to Make French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Wash and clean the chicken thighs using lemon juice and vinegar. Trim off any excess fat and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken thighs with buttermilk, salt, and white pepper. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for better flavor absorption.

Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying

In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In a wide bowl, mix together self-rising flour, onion powder, garlic, paprika, and Tony’s seasoning. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dip into the flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 5: Fry Chicken Pieces

Fry two pieces of chicken at a time in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 7 minutes per side. Once cooked, rest on a cooling rack to let excess oil drain.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small pot, combine all sauce ingredients—apricot, chili sauce, honey, apple juice, and sriracha. Simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Allow to cool before using.

Step 7: Prepare French Toast

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, almond extract (or vanilla), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Dip brioche slices into this mixture until soaked but not falling apart.

Step 8: Cook French Toast

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each slice of brioche until golden brown on both sides.

Step 9: Assemble Your Sandwich

Layer crispy fried chicken between two slices of French toast. Drizzle generously with your sweet chili sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich!

How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Serving a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is all about highlighting its unique flavors. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of French toast with the savory crunch of fried chicken, making it a perfect meal for brunch or a hearty lunch.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Mixed Berries: A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a sweet-tart contrast.
• Sliced Apples: Crisp apple slices can enhance the sweetness and provide a crunchy texture.

Add a Side Salad

• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette keeps things fresh and complements the dish beautifully.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Offer additional sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick of flavor.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey adds sweetness and pairs well with both the chicken and bread.

How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

To achieve the best results with your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, follow these tips for perfecting your dish every time.

• Bold Marinade: Marinate your chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion; overnight is ideal.
• Crispy Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated in flour for that perfect crispy exterior.
• Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal frying.
• Egg Wash: Add eggs after marinating to create a thicker batter that clings better to the chicken.
• Rest Before Serving: Let your fried chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy.
• Customize Bread Choices: Experiment with different types of bread like challah or sourdough for varied textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Complement your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Each option adds its own flair to this already flavorful dish.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with savory elements.
2. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings freshness and balances out the rich sandwich flavors.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness and pair excellently with the main dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob adds smokiness and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste profile.
5. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers comfort and richness that complements crispy fried chicken.
6. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of both the chicken and bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish significantly.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to dry meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours is best.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying chicken at the wrong temperature can result in soggy or burnt pieces. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and cause uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for crispy results.
• Neglecting Egg Mixture: Forgetting to whisk the eggs with milk and spices for the French toast can lead to bland bread. Ensure a well-mixed egg batter for flavor.
• Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into fried chicken immediately can release juices, resulting in dryness. Allow it to rest on a rack after frying.
• Wrong Bread Choice: Using bread that’s too soft may lead to a soggy sandwich. Choose brioche or another sturdy option to hold up better.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep chicken and bread separate if possible, to maintain texture.

Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.
• Label bags with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place the sandwich on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, covering it with a lid for even warming, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?

The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich combines crispy fried chicken between two slices of sweet brioche bread dipped in egg mixture, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch option.

How do I customize my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?

You can customize this sandwich by adding toppings such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or extra sauces like honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! While brioche is recommended for its sturdiness and sweetness, you can experiment with challah or sourdough for unique flavors and textures.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Consider serving your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with crispy hash browns, fresh fruit salad, or a light green salad for balance.

Conclusion

The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes it perfect for any meal. Its versatility allows for numerous customizations based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today and create your own delicious twist!