These Chicken Caesar Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and creamy Caesar dressing come together in a soft bun, making every bite full of flavor.
They’re perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. I love to toast the buns for a little extra crunch—so good! Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can whip these up at home? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this sandwich. For a healthier option, you can use grilled chicken or swap it for turkey breast. Tofu or chickpea patties can work for a vegetarian version.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have it, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will mimic the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a light, crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, use regular breadcrumbs, but consider adding a pinch of salt to boost flavor. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes can add an interesting crunch!
Caesar Dressing: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade can elevate your sandwich. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use yogurt instead of traditional dressing. For a vegan option, look for plant-based Caesar dressings.
How Do I Get That Perfectly Breaded Chicken?
Breading chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about the technique! Follow these steps to achieve a deliciously crispy coating.
- Start with marinated chicken! The buttermilk not only adds flavor but keeps the meat juicy.
- When breading, remove excess buttermilk to avoid sogginess. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture first to create a dry surface for the breadcrumbs to stick.
- Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken gently, ensuring they adhere well. This helps get that crunchy texture you want.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil, ensuring even cooking by leaving space between pieces in the skillet. Cook until golden brown for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
How to Make Chicken Caesar Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 hoagie rolls or ciabatta bread
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: black pepper for seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of active cooking time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (or longer if you choose to marinate overnight). So, set aside some time to prepare and enjoy these tasty sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken until they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, overnight is even better for enhanced flavor!
2. Prepare the Coating:
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to prepare the coating. In one bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper together. In another bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs. Having these ready will make breading the chicken easier!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out and let any excess buttermilk drip off. First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated. Then, dip the chicken into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs stick well.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
While the chicken cools slightly, split the hoagie rolls (or ciabatta bread) in half. Spread a generous layer of Caesar dressing on the inside of each roll. Then, place a handful of shredded romaine lettuce on the bottom half of each roll.
6. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Now it’s time to add the chicken! Place a piece of the fried chicken on top of the lettuce in each sandwich. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like, add a dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top.
7. Serve:
Close the sandwiches up and serve them immediately. For an extra treat, you can offer some Caesar dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your Chicken Caesar Sandwiches—they’re a hit!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will provide a similar tangy flavor.
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
You can! Cooked chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container. When ready to assemble your sandwiches, you can reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave for a few minutes.
How to Store Leftover Sandwiches?
For leftover sandwiches, it’s best to store the chicken, lettuce, and dressing separately to keep everything fresh. Place the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and store the lettuce and dressing in separate containers to prevent sogginess.
