Name: Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 155 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients: 4 pieces of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); Vegetable oil (for frying); 4 brioche buns; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional); Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich: A Flavorful Delight

Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite. This dish combines the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken with the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine, creating a sandwich that is both comforting and exotic. The origins of this delightful creation can be traced back to the bustling street food markets of Thailand, where fried chicken is a beloved staple, often served with a variety of zesty sauces and fresh herbs.

People love the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich for its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crunch of the fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy bread, while the addition of spicy mayo and pickled vegetables adds a refreshing zing. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re a fan of Thai food or just looking to spice up your sandwich game, the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

4 pieces of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sandwich Assembly:

4 brioche buns
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (optional)
Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Preparing the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir until all the dry ingredients are evenly combined.
Set up a dredging station: Place the bowl of coating mixture next to the bowl of marinated chicken. You will also need a plate or tray to place the coated chicken on.

Coating the Chicken

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
One at a time, dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on the plate or tray.
Repeat this process for all the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Let the coated chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during frying.

Frying the Chicken

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the coating mixture into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.
Carefully add the coated chicken thighs to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with a pinch of salt while still hot.

Assembling the Sandwich

While the chicken is frying, prepare the brioche buns. You can toast them lightly on a skillet or in the oven for added texture.
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha sauce (if using) to create a spicy mayo. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred spice level.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a recipe that combines bold flavors, crispy textures, and a touch of exotic flair, then this Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is an absolute must-try! The marriage of juicy, marinated chicken with the crunch of a perfectly fried exterior creates a delightful experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. The addition of fresh herbs and zesty sauces elevates this sandwich to a whole new level, making it not just a meal, but a culinary adventure.

For serving suggestions, I highly recommend pairing your Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad. The sweetness of the fries complements the savory chicken beautifully, while the crispness of the salad adds a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha mayo or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts on top for an extra kick and crunch. You can also experiment with different types of bread; a soft brioche bun or a crusty baguette can change the entire vibe of the sandwich, making it uniquely yours.

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your palate—add more chili for heat or tone it down for a milder flavor. You could also swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version that still packs a punch. The versatility of this recipe means that you can enjoy it in countless ways, ensuring that it never gets old.

I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you put your own spin on it? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below or on social media. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps others discover the joy of cooking this incredible sandwich.

So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delicious Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and who knows, it might just become a staple in your household! Happy cooking!