Imagine biting into a crispy, golden-brown chicken sandwich that perfectly balances Southern comfort with a tantalizing sweet and spicy glaze. These Pepper Jelly Glazed Fried Chicken Sandwiches are not just a meal – they're a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. With a crunchy exterior, tender juicy chicken, and a mouthwatering pepper jelly glaze, this recipe will become your new obsession that'll have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup pepper jelly
- 4 burger buns
- Leafy greens for topping
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- In a large bowl, marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for 30 minutes, which will help tenderize the meat and enhance flavor.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the breading mixture.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to 350°F, ensuring the oil is deep enough to partially submerge the chicken.
- Carefully place breaded chicken into hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While chicken is frying, warm pepper jelly in a small saucepan over low heat to create a smooth glaze.
- Once chicken is cooked, brush each piece generously with the warm pepper jelly glaze.
- Lightly toast burger buns until golden and crisp around the edges.
- Assemble sandwiches by placing glazed fried chicken on buns and topping with fresh leafy greens.
- Serve immediately while chicken is hot and crispy, with extra pepper jelly on the side if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe, perfectly cooked meat.
- Buttermilk Magic: Marinating chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes helps tenderize and adds incredible flavor.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain a consistent 350°F oil temperature for crispy, non-greasy chicken.
- Glaze While Hot: Apply pepper jelly glaze immediately after frying for maximum flavor absorption.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh, high-quality pepper jelly for the most vibrant glaze.
- Toasting Tip: Lightly butter buns before toasting for extra flavor and crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 620kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
