French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, perfect for brunches or casual gatherings. Combining the sweetness of French toast with crispy fried chicken creates a flavor explosion that is genuinely unforgettable. The addition of a sweet chili sauce elevates this dish, making it a true standout for any occasion. You’ll find this recipe not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory flavors will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner; serve it at any time!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or entertaining friends, everyone will love this unique sandwich.
• Easy to Customize: Add your favorite toppings or sides to make it your own.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: A hearty meal that satisfies your cravings and warms your soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools. These will ensure a smooth cooking experience while preparing your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking thermometer
• Frying rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven or large pot: Perfect for frying chicken evenly while maintaining the right temperature.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps in combining eggs and milk smoothly for the French toast batter.
• Frying rack: Allows excess oil to drain from the fried chicken, 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
• 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

Start by washing and cleaning the chicken thighs with lemon and vinegar. Trim off any extra fat and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 3: Heat Oil for Frying

Heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot 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 marinade and dip them into the flour mixture until well coated.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add two pieces of chicken at a time into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 7 minutes per side. Once done, rest the cooked chicken on a rack to cool.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a small pot over low heat, combine all sauce ingredients: apricot, chili sauce, honey, and sriracha. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened; let cool before serving.

Step 7: Prepare French Toast

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

Step 8: Cook French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat with melted unsalted butter, 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 with sweet chili sauce before serving!

Now you’ve prepared an amazing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich that’s sure to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Serving the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is as important as making it. This delightful combination of sweet and savory can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance the experience.

Classic Accompaniments

• Pickles – A crunchy, tangy addition that balances the sweetness of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw – Creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds a refreshing crunch.
• Potato Chips – Crispy chips provide a satisfying crunch and complement the sandwich perfectly.

Gourmet Touches

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and a healthy twist.
• Sriracha Drizzle – A touch of heat enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Maple Syrup – A drizzle on top can elevate the sweetness for those who love a sweet-and-savory combo.

Fresh Salads

• Mixed Green Salad – Light greens with a vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast.
• Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits can add a bright, juicy note alongside the sandwich.

How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

To ensure your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich turns out amazing every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Marination Time: Allowing chicken to marinate for longer—up to two hours—will infuse more flavor into the meat.
• Balanced Seasoning: Adjust seasoning according to your taste; feel free to add more spices for a bolder flavor profile.
• Perfect Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350 degrees for optimal frying results.
• Quality Bread Choice: Choose thick-cut brioche or challah bread for a soft yet sturdy base that holds up well against fillings.
• Rest After Frying: Let fried chicken rest on a rack rather than paper towels to keep it crispy.
• Creative Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like honey mustard or garlic aioli for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Pairing your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich with delicious side dishes can make your meal even better. Here are some excellent options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy and slightly sweet, they pair well with the savory elements of the sandwich.
2. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy and cheesy, this classic comfort food adds richness to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brings in a fresh and sweet taste that complements the sandwich nicely.
4. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky beans add depth and heartiness to your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad offers crunch and freshness, balancing out the meal’s richness.
6. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables – Roasted veggies bring color, nutrition, and a burst of flavor alongside your sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make errors when preparing your French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate properly can result in dry meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but longer marination enhances flavor and moisture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature. This leads to soggy chicken instead of crispy perfection. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Inconsistent Heat: Cooking at an improper temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at around 350 degrees for even frying.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season the flour mixture can lead to bland chicken. Ensure every layer is well-seasoned, from marinade to breading.
• Using Stale Bread: Fresh bread is key to achieving the perfect French toast texture. Stale bread may not absorb the egg mixture properly, resulting in a less satisfying sandwich.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover sandwich in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for maximum freshness.

Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on a baking tray and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?

A French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich combines crispy fried chicken with sweet and fluffy French toast, creating a deliciously unique meal.

Can I customize the sauce for my sandwich?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different sauces or spices based on your taste preferences, like adding extra chili sauce or using a honey mustard blend.

How do I make my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich healthier?

You can use whole-grain bread and bake the chicken instead of frying it for a lighter version while still enjoying great flavor.

How long does it take to prepare the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?

The total time is about 120 minutes, including preparation and cooking. The marination time can vary from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or lamb as alternatives, depending on your taste preferences.

Conclusion

The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful twist on classic flavors that combines sweet and savory elements perfectly. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different sauces and sides, catering to various tastes and occasions. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

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