Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich

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If your ideal sandwich involves crispy, juicy chicken packed with tangy flavor and topped with creamy slaw and crunchy pickles, then this Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich will be your new favorite. It’s everything comfort food should be: indulgent, flavorful, and wildly satisfying.

Brining the chicken in pickle juice is the not-so-secret trick to getting that signature tang and tenderness. This method not only infuses flavor deep into the meat but also helps keep the chicken ultra-moist during frying. When you sandwich that between a toasted brioche bun with creamy dressing, pickles, and slaw, it’s more than just a bite—it’s a full-on flavor experience.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this sandwich masterpiece, make sure your kitchen is stocked with a few must-have tools to get everything just right:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Duty Frying Pan: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy fry. It retains and distributes heat evenly, giving your chicken a perfect crust.
• Deep Fry Thermometer: Accuracy matters! Keeping oil at the optimal temperature (around 350°F) ensures the chicken cooks through without burning.
• Wire Rack with Sheet Pan: After frying, let your chicken rest here. This setup prevents soggy bottoms by letting air circulate underneath.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need several for marinating, dredging, and tossing slaw. Opt for bowls with plenty of space to move ingredients around.
• Tongs: For safe, easy flipping and transferring the hot chicken without piercing and losing juices.

Having these tools prepped makes the process smoother and helps deliver a fried chicken sandwich that’s crispy outside, juicy inside, and packed with crave-worthy flavor.

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Ingredients for the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich

Each component in this sandwich brings bold flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Boneless Chicken Thighs – Thighs stay juicier than breasts and soak up that tangy brine like a sponge.
• Pickle Juice – The brine base. Adds zip, tenderizes the chicken, and gives it that signature flavor.
• Buttermilk – Helps break down proteins in the meat, keeping it moist and creating a flavorful crust.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for the crispy coating. Forms a crunchy golden shell when fried.
• Cornstarch – Boosts the crisp factor in the dredge, giving a lighter crunch.
• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Cayenne, Black Pepper – These spices layer in smoky, savory heat and balance the tanginess.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning every layer.
• Oil for Frying (like peanut or canola) – High-smoke-point oils are safest for frying and won’t overpower flavor.
• Brioche Buns – Buttery and slightly sweet, they balance the savory punch of the chicken.
• Pickles – Add crunch and reinforce the briny bite.
• Coleslaw (optional but recommended) – Adds creamy contrast and fresh crunch.
• Ranch or Mayo-Based Dressing – For creaminess and flavor cohesion.

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How To Make the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or bag with pickle juice and buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This is where the magic starts.

Step 2: Prep the Dredge

In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and all spices. Mix well to distribute flavor evenly throughout the coating.

Step 3: Dredge and Rest

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mix, pressing to ensure it sticks. Let the dredged chicken rest on a wire rack for 15 minutes—this helps the coating adhere.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat your oil to 350°F in a deep skillet. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F), about 5–7 minutes per side. Transfer to a wire rack to drain and stay crisp.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast your brioche buns. Spread ranch or mayo-based dressing on both sides. Layer with crispy chicken, creamy slaw, and pickles. Top with the bun and dig in!

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How to Serve and Store the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich

Serve the Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich hot and fresh, straight after frying and assembling. Toasted brioche buns add that warm, buttery contrast to the crispy chicken, while the creamy slaw and cold pickles deliver crunch and balance.

Pair this sandwich with waffle fries, sweet potato chips, or a classic dill pickle spear. A glass of sweet tea or a cold, crisp beer wouldn’t hurt either.

To store, keep components separate. Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust. Slaw and sauces should be stored in separate containers, and buns kept at room temperature or lightly toasted again before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I brine the chicken?

Ideally, let it sit overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, 4 hours is the minimum for noticeable flavor and tenderness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are more forgiving and juicy. If using breasts, consider pounding them slightly to even thickness.

What oil is best for frying?

Use oils with a high smoke point like peanut, canola, or vegetable oil. They won’t burn at frying temps and keep the flavor neutral.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap out all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and make sure the cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is coleslaw necessary?

Not required, but highly recommended. The creamy crunch complements the crispy, tangy chicken beautifully.

How do I keep the fried chicken crispy?

Let it rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels, and avoid covering it immediately after frying. This prevents steam from softening the crust.

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Want More Chicken Sandwich Ideas?

If you loved this Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich, you’re going to want to try these flavorful bites next:

• Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes – All the flavor of a cheesesteak in a handheld sandwich form.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – A creamy, baked twist on the classic French favorite.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot – Set it and forget it comfort food that pairs well with buns.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce – Easy to prep and packed with bold garlic flavor.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet – Buttery, skillet-seared chicken full of Southern charm.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest sandwich board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with classic dill pickles or try bread and butter? Maybe added a drizzle of honey hot sauce?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. If you have questions or tweaks, drop them below – let’s help each other create sandwich magic.

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