Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Prepare chicken

If chicken breasts are thick, butterfly or pound them to an even thickness about 3/4 inch. Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.

Set up breading station

Place the flour in a shallow dish. In a second dish whisk the egg and 2 tbs milk until combined. In a third dish combine panko breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt and set beside the others.

Bread the chicken

Working one piece at a time: dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess; dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off; press into panko so it is evenly coated. Place on a plate and let rest 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.

Pan-fry the chicken

Heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 350°F if using a thermometer). Add chicken and cook 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning; if coating browns too quickly, lower to medium. Transfer cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a sheet pan or paper towels to drain.

Toast buns

Melt 2 tbs butter in a clean skillet over medium heat. Add hamburger buns, cut-side down, and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from pan.

Combine 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage and 1/2 cup grated carrot in a bowl. In a small bowl whisk together 3 tbs mayonnaise, 1 tbs apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to coat. Let sit 5–10 minutes to soften slightly and meld flavors.

In a small bowl stir together 3 tbs mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional), 1/2 tsp lemon juice and 1/8 tsp salt until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Spread a tablespoon (approx.) of the sauce on both cut sides of each toasted bun. Place lettuce leaf on the bottom bun (if using), then the fried chicken breast. Top chicken with a generous scoop of quick slaw, add tomato slices and pickles if desired. Cap with top bun. Serve immediately.