Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Sandwich

When you’re craving something crispy, juicy, and just the right amount of spicy, there’s nothing quite like an Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Sandwich. This homemade version of a fast-food favorite is bold in flavor, perfectly crispy on the outside, and tender and juicy on the inside—all without deep frying.

With a golden, crunchy coating, a kick of heat, and a creamy sauce to cool it down, this spicy chicken sandwich hits every comfort food craving. And the best part? It’s healthier and easier thanks to the air fryer.

Want spicy, easy weeknight meals like this delivered to your inbox? Subscribe now for flavor-packed recipes you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Without the Grease – Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the crunch without deep frying.

Perfectly Spiced – Balanced heat with a flavorful blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and more.

Fast Food Favorite, Made Healthier – All the flavor, none of the drive-thru guilt.

Customizable – Add pickles, slaw, lettuce, or your favorite sauce to build your perfect sandwich.

Quick & Easy – From air fryer to bun in 30 minutes or less!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied or pounded to even thickness)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Frank’s or Sriracha)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
• ½ cup crushed cornflakes (for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray

For the Spicy Mayo:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Squeeze of lemon juice

For Serving:

• 2 brioche buns (or any sandwich buns you like)
• Pickles, lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional toppings)

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Tongs
• Knife & cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra flavor).

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from marinade and press into the coating mixture until well covered on all sides.

Step 3: Air Fry

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the chicken in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken as well. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, mix mayo, hot sauce, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Build Your Sandwich

Toast your buns if desired. Spread spicy mayo on both sides of the bun, then add the crispy chicken, pickles, lettuce, tomato, or any toppings you love. Top with the other bun and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Even Chicken = Even Cooking – Pound or butterfly thick chicken breasts to make them uniform.

Crispier Crust – Use a combo of panko and cornflakes for extra crunch.

Air Fryer Space – Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed.

Turn Up the Heat – Add more cayenne or top with jalapeños if you like it extra hot!

Serving Suggestions

With Fries or Chips – Serve with homemade fries, sweet potato wedges, or kettle chips.

With a Side Salad – A crunchy slaw or simple green salad balances the spice.

As a Slider – Use smaller buns for party-ready spicy chicken sliders.

Meal Prep Friendly – Make the chicken ahead and reheat in the air fryer when ready to serve.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Air fry at 375°F for 4–5 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also reheat in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Just reduce or omit the cayenne and hot sauce to keep the flavor milder.

Can I bake it instead?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns, and you’re good to go!

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: American

Print