Description
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.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied or pounded to even thickness)
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½ cup buttermilk
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1 teaspoon hot sauce (like Frank’s or Sriracha)
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½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
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½ cup crushed cornflakes (for extra crunch)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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Olive oil spray
For the Spicy Mayo:
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon hot sauce
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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Squeeze of lemon juice
For Serving:
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2 brioche buns (or any sandwich buns you like)
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Pickles, lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional toppings)
Instructions
In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra flavor).
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.
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).
In a small bowl, mix mayo, hot sauce, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
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.
Notes
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!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Cuisine: American