Dave’s hot chicken sandwich copycat recipe
Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious chicken sandwiches, then you’re in for a treat. Today, I’m sharing my ultimate copycat recipe for Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich. Dave’s Hot Chicken has taken the culinary world by storm with its perfectly seasoned, juicy, and fiery chicken sandwiches that leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe captures all the magic of the original, so you can enjoy this mouthwatering delight right in the comfort of your home.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is renowned for its signature spice blend, crispy coating, and perfectly balanced heat. The sandwich typically features a juicy fried chicken breast, slathered in a spicy hot sauce, nestled between soft, toasted buns, and topped with crunchy pickles and creamy slaw. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that makes every bite a memorable experience.
The origin of Dave’s Hot Chicken is as interesting as the sandwich itself. Founded by friends who were passionate about hot chicken, they started as a humble pop-up in a parking lot and quickly gained a cult following. Their secret? A focus on quality ingredients, precise cooking techniques, and a dedication to delivering an unforgettable spicy experience. This recipe aims to replicate that magic, allowing you to create a version that rivals the original.
One of the best things about making this sandwich at home is that you can customize it to suit your spice tolerance. Whether you like it mildly spicy or prefer a fiery kick that makes your eyes water, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences. Plus, you can experiment with various toppings and sides to create a meal that’s uniquely yours.
Now, let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step directions for creating your own Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich copycat. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a homemade version of this iconic dish!
Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich Copycat Recipe
4
servings20
minutes20
minutesTo make 12 Croissant Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- For the chicken and marinade
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the spicy sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- For assembly:
4 brioche buns, toasted
Dill pickle slices
Coleslaw (optional but highly recommended)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This step helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to fully submerge the chicken breasts.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, frying them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a generous amount of the spicy sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun.
- Place a fried chicken breast on top of the sauce.
- Add dill pickle slices and coleslaw (if using) on top of the chicken.
- Spread more spicy sauce on the top half of the bun and place it on top of the sandwich.
Notes
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Variations and Toppings for Dave’s hot chicken sandwich copycat recipe
While the classic Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich is a masterpiece on its own, there are numerous ways to customize and elevate this dish to suit your preferences. Here are some variations and toppings you can experiment with:
- Cheese:
- Add a slice of cheese to your sandwich for an extra layer of flavor. Pepper jack, cheddar, or Swiss cheese can complement the spicy chicken beautifully.
- Avocado:
- Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the heat of the chicken. It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate some healthy fats into your meal.
- Bacon:
- Crispy bacon strips bring a salty, smoky element to the sandwich, making it even more indulgent and satisfying.
- Lettuce and Tomato:
- For a fresh and crisp contrast, add lettuce and tomato slices to your sandwich. This classic combination adds a refreshing crunch.
- Onion Rings:
- Top your sandwich with crispy onion rings for an added layer of crunch and a touch of sweetness.
- Pickled Jalapeños:
- If you love extra heat, add some pickled jalapeños to your sandwich. They provide a tangy and spicy kick.
- Different Buns:
- While brioche buns are a fantastic choice, you can experiment with other types of bread, such as pretzel buns, ciabatta, or even a classic sesame seed bun.
- Coleslaw Variations:
- Try different coleslaw recipes, such as a tangy vinegar-based slaw or a creamy slaw with a hint of mustard. The slaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken.
- Hot Honey Drizzle:
- For a sweet and spicy twist, drizzle some hot honey over the fried chicken before assembling the sandwich. The combination of honey and heat is simply irresistible.
- Additional Sauces:
- While the spicy sauce is a must, you can also add other sauces like ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a tangy BBQ sauce for extra layers of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
A great sandwich deserves great accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich meal:
- French Fries:
- Classic French fries are a perfect side dish. You can go for traditional salted fries or spice them up with a sprinkle of cajun seasoning.
- Sweet Potato Fries:
- For a healthier alternative, serve your sandwich with sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness complements the spicy chicken beautifully.
- Potato Salad:
- A creamy potato salad is a comforting side that pairs well with the heat of the sandwich. Opt for a classic recipe or try a mustard-based potato salad for a tangy twist.
- Pickle Spear:
- A crunchy pickle spear adds a refreshing bite and helps balance the richness of the sandwich.
- Corn on the Cob:
- Corn on the cob, whether grilled or boiled, is a simple and delicious side dish that enhances the overall meal.
- Macaroni and Cheese:
- A creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a comforting and indulgent side that complements the spicy sandwich.
- Salad:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
- Coleslaw:
- If you didn’t use coleslaw as a topping, serve it on the side. The cool, crunchy slaw is a great complement to the hot chicken.
- Baked Beans:
- A side of baked beans adds a sweet and savory element to your meal, balancing the spiciness of the chicken.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade:
- For beverages, iced tea or lemonade are perfect choices. They are refreshing and help cool down the heat from the sandwich.
Conclusion
Creating a Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich copycat at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of a popular restaurant dish into your kitchen. By following this recipe, you can achieve that perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and spicy chicken that makes Dave’s Hot Chicken so beloved.
One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can adjust the level of heat to your liking, experiment with different toppings, and pair the sandwich with a variety of sides to create a meal that suits your taste. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or just because you’re craving a delicious sandwich, it’s sure to be a hit.
Remember, the key to a great chicken sandwich is high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. Marinating the chicken ensures it’s flavorful and tender, while the seasoned flour mixture creates that perfect crispy coating. And of course, the spicy sauce ties everything together, adding a creamy, tangy, and fiery kick.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress yourself and others with this incredible homemade Dave’s Hot Chicken Sandwich. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of this flavorful creation. Happy cooking!
