Crispy Panko Fried Chicken Caesar Sandwich
This viral crispy panko fried chicken Caesar sandwich is loaded with crunchy golden chicken, creamy homemade Caesar dressing, and fresh romaine on a toasted brioche bun. The ultimate chicken sandwich recipe for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–25 minutes (depending on method)
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Lunch / Dinner
- Method: Frying / Baking / Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken & Marinade:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
Oil for cooking
Caesar Dressing:
⅓ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Assembly:
4 brioche rolls, toasted
4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
Make the Caesar Dressing:
Whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Set Up Breading Stations:
Prepare three bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs
Bread the Chicken:
Remove chicken from marinade. Dredge in seasoned flour, dip into eggs, then press firmly into panko breadcrumbs to ensure full coverage.
Cook (Choose Method):
Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F. Bake 20–25 minutes until fully cooked and crispy.
Air Fry: Cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest:
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before assembling.
Assemble Sandwiches:
Toss chopped romaine with Caesar dressing. Place crispy chicken on toasted brioche rolls, top with dressed lettuce and shaved Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Notes
Press panko firmly for maximum crunch.
Caesar dressing can be made up to 2 days in advance.
Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
For extra crispiness, lightly spray chicken with oil before baking or air frying.
