When it comes to satisfying meals, few dishes beat a crispy, juicy chicken sandwich. This juicy air fryer chicken sandwich with a flavorful coating combines crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken with fresh toppings and a spicy mayo that brings the whole sandwich together. The air fryer does the heavy lifting by cooking the chicken to golden perfection with minimal oil, ensuring that it’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Paired with classic sandwich toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles, it makes for a meal that’s both comforting and healthier than the deep-fried version.
Not only is this sandwich delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, and the seasoned flour coating adds an irresistible crunch. The spicy mayo ties everything together with a kick of heat, balancing out the richness of the chicken. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or enjoying a solo meal, this air fryer chicken sandwich is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This air fryer chicken sandwich offers the crispy texture of deep-fried chicken without the heavy oils. The combination of seasonings creates a flavorful coating, and marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures it stays tender. The spicy mayo adds a tangy heat, complementing the freshness of the lettuce, tomato, and pickles. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of 35 minutes, this is an easy yet satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the added calories. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone craving a delicious, healthier take on a classic comfort food.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Buttermilk
- All-purpose flour
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauce
- Hamburger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Pickles
Variations
- Cheese Lover’s: Add a slice of cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese to melt on top of the chicken during the last few minutes of air frying.
- Extra Spicy: Increase the amount of hot sauce in the spicy mayo, or add a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the sandwich.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a crispy cauliflower steak or a plant-based chicken patty for a vegetarian version.
- Buns: For a richer sandwich, use brioche buns instead of regular hamburger buns.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a separate shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Make sure each breast is evenly coated with the seasoned flour.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time for an even crispiness. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and hot sauce to create the spicy mayo. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred level of heat.
Step 7: Toast the Buns
Toast the hamburger buns in the air fryer for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 8: Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwiches, spread the spicy mayo on the bottom bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato, and pickles, then top with the crispy chicken breast. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Coat the Chicken Well: Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the flour mixture to achieve that crispy texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the chicken in the air fryer basket, don’t overcrowd it. Air needs to circulate around each piece for the chicken to cook evenly and get crispy.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for optimal juiciness and safety.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the spicy mayo to suit your taste. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
How to Serve
This juicy air fryer chicken sandwich is best served hot and fresh. Pair it with crispy fries, a side salad, or some crunchy coleslaw for a complete meal. You can also serve it with extra spicy mayo or a dipping sauce like ranch or barbecue sauce for added flavor. The sandwich is great for lunch, dinner, or even as a game-day snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The chicken will stay flavorful, though the coating may lose some of its crispiness.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the cooked chicken, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes at 375°F until hot and crispy again.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the exterior is crisp. You can also reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They will be juicier than breasts but will need slightly longer cooking time.
2. Can I skip marinating the chicken?
While marinating is recommended for maximum tenderness and flavor, you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry. Just be aware that the chicken may be less juicy.
3. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the chicken.
4. Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of spicy mayo?
Yes, regular mayonnaise can be used, or you can make other variations of sauce like garlic aioli or ranch.
5. How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
Double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour for an even crispier coating. Also, ensure the air fryer is preheated properly.
6. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken first for an even cook. Frozen chicken may not cook properly in the air fryer without additional time.
7. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the spicy mayo for more heat.
8. How long does it take to cook chicken in an air fryer?
Chicken breasts typically take 20-25 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer, depending on the thickness.
9. What type of buns work best?
Soft hamburger buns work best, but you can also use brioche or whole wheat buns for a different flavor profile.
10. Can I add cheese to the sandwich?
Absolutely! Add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, and melt it on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
This juicy air fryer chicken sandwich is a perfect combination of crispy chicken, fresh toppings, and a spicy mayo that brings everything together. It’s easy to make, healthier than traditional fried chicken, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying sandwich for a gathering, this recipe is sure to please.
PrintJuicy Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich with a Flavorful Coating
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A juicy and crispy chicken sandwich made in the air fryer, with a flavorful coating and topped with spicy mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. A healthier take on a classic, but just as satisfying!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for topping
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and hot sauce to make a spicy mayo.
- Toast the hamburger buns in the air fryer for a few minutes.
- Assemble the sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, pickles, spicy mayo, and the air-fried chicken.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray before air frying.
- Adjust the level of hot sauce in the mayo based on your spice preference.
- The chicken can be frozen before cooking, making it a great make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes