French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

This French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors that will elevate your meal experience. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner, this sandwich combines the sweetness of French toast with crispy fried chicken, all drizzled with a delicious apple juice sweet chili sauce. The blend of savory and sweet makes it an irresistible option for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weekday meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The sweetness of the French toast pairs perfectly with the savory fried chicken for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—this sandwich fits every time of day.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you can whip this up even on busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s sure to impress family and friends at gatherings, making it a go-to recipe for entertaining.
• Comfort Food Delight: Indulge in this heartwarming dish that brings comfort with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right kitchen tools will make preparing the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking thermometer
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven or large pot: Ideal for frying chicken evenly while maintaining the right oil temperature.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing your ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps in blending eggs and milk smoothly for the egg wash before frying.
• Cooling rack: Keeps fried chicken crispy by allowing air circulation after frying.

Ingredients

This is the best Sweet and Hot French Toast Fried 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

In a medium-sized bowl, add the cleaned chicken thighs along with buttermilk, salt, and white pepper. Mix well and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 2 hours; the longer, the better.

Step 3: Heat Oil

Heat about 1½ inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large pot until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a wide bowl, combine self-rising flour, onion powder, garlic, paprika, and Tony’s seasoning. Set this mixture aside for coating the chicken.

Step 5: Fry Chicken

Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dip into the flour mixture until fully coated. Fry two pieces at a time until golden brown and cooked through—approximately 7 minutes per side. Once done, rest them on a cooling rack to let excess oil drain.

Step 6: Make Sauce

In a small pot, combine all sauce ingredients. Simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes until well combined, then let it cool.

Step 7: Prepare French Toast

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, almond extract (or vanilla), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Dip brioche slices into this mixture until soaked through.

Step 8: Cook French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat with melted butter, cook each slice of brioche until golden brown on both sides.

Step 9: Assemble Sandwich

Layer fried chicken between slices of French toast. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce before serving warm!

Enjoy your delightful French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich!

How to Serve French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Serving a French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation. This delightful dish can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate your meal experience.

Classic Pairings

• Maple Syrup – A drizzle of maple syrup adds a sweet touch that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
• Fresh Fruits – Slices of strawberries, blueberries, or bananas provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich.

Unique Additions

• Spicy Aioli – A creamy, spicy aioli can add a zesty kick to each bite, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch and balances out the richness of the fried chicken.

Garnishes

• Chopped Herbs – Fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds color and freshness to your sandwich.
• Pickles – Adding pickles brings a tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the French toast.

How to Perfect French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

To achieve the ultimate French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, attention to detail in preparation is key. Here are some tips for perfection.

• Bold Marination – Ensure you marinate the chicken long enough for maximum flavor absorption, ideally 2 hours or more.
• Thorough Coating – Coat the chicken evenly in the flour mixture to create a crispy texture when fried.
• Correct Oil Temperature – Maintain oil at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve a golden-brown crust without overcooking the chicken.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh spices and herbs to enhance taste; freshness matters in balancing flavors.

Best Side Dishes for French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

Pairing your sandwich with delicious sides can turn a simple meal into an unforgettable feast. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide a delightful contrast to your savory sandwich.
2. Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balance, making it perfect for brunch.
3. Mixed Green Salad – Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the sandwich.
4. Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness and are excellent for dipping in sauces.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and flavors that complement your meal perfectly.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob makes for a classic summer side that pairs well with fried chicken dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Inadequate Marination: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to a lack of flavor. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes, but longer is better for maximum taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold eggs and milk can result in uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start cooking.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Failing to let the fried chicken rest after cooking can make it soggy. Place it on a cooling rack for optimal texture.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Not heating the oil to the right temperature may result in greasy chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once lowers the oil temperature and affects crispiness. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat sandwiches on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich special?

The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the French toast and fried chicken creates a unique taste experience that’s hard to resist.

Can I customize my French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or lettuce for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How do I ensure my fried chicken is crispy?

Make sure to follow proper frying techniques, including using hot oil and allowing the chicken to rest after frying for maximum crispiness.

What sides pair well with this sandwich?

Consider serving it with fresh fruit, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries for a delicious meal that’s balanced and satisfying.

Conclusion

The French Toast Fried Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious twist on classic flavors!

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