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Pickle Brined Fried Chicken: 4 Juicy Secrets

Pickle Brined Fried Chicken

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Enjoy a homemade Pickle Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich, featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in tangy pickle brine for an irresistible flavor and a perfectly crispy coating, all served on toasted buns with a creamy sauce and fresh toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup dill pickle brine
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk
  • 2 cups vegetable oil
  • 4 brioche or potato sandwich buns, toasted
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce or slaw mix
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Sliced dill pickles

Instructions

  1. Place chicken thighs in a mixing bowl or zip-top bag. Pour pickle brine and hot sauce over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are fully submerged. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk or buttermilk until fully blended.
  4. Remove chicken thighs from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Dredge each thigh in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip into the egg wash, then return to the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.
  5. Heat approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded chicken thighs in batches for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning as needed, until golden brown, crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain.
  6. In a small bowl, blend mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. Spread sauce evenly on both halves of each toasted bun. Layer with shredded lettuce or slaw mix, top with a fried chicken thigh, and finish with sliced dill pickles. Serve immediately for best texture.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight will result in a stronger pickle flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce.
  • For added crunch, consider adding fried onions on top of the sandwich.

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