– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of your choice of bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or whole wheat)
– 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
– ½ cup Caesar dressing
– Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
– Olive oil for frying
Creating the Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is straightforward, and these step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process:
1. Prepare Chicken: Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to tenderize.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight) to tenderize and add flavor.
3. Set Up Breading Station: In two separate bowls, place the flour seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in one. In the second bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Bread the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, then transfer to the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and fry for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Toast the Bread: While chicken cooks, toast your bread slices in a toaster or on a grill until golden brown and crispy.
8. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of Caesar dressing on the bottom slice of toasted bread. Top with the crispy chicken, followed by romaine lettuce and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Finish Assembly: Add another layer of Caesar dressing on the top slice of bread. Close the sandwich and press down gently to combine.
10. Slice and Serve: Cut the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately while everything is still warm and crispy.
These simple steps will help you create a sandwich that is both delicious and satisfying!