Homemade Chicken Little Recipe Crispy & Juicy Delight
Craving a crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken sandwich that’s easy to make at home? This homemade Chicken Little recipe is just what you need! Inspired by the popular fast-food classic, this chicken slider features crunchy fried chicken, soft buns, creamy mayo, and tangy pickles. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this fast-food favorite in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Crispy & Juicy: The chicken is perfectly seasoned, double-breaded, and fried to golden perfection.
✅ Fast & Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes (excluding marination).
✅ Better Than Fast Food: Homemade means fresh, healthier, and customizable to your taste.
✅ Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for lunch, dinner, parties, or game nights.
Chicken Little Recipe Prep Chart
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Marinating Chicken | 1 hour (optional but recommended) |
| Preparing Breading | 5 minutes |
| Frying Chicken | 8-10 minutes |
| Toasting Buns | 2-3 minutes |
| Assembling Sandwich | 2 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes (without marination) / 75 minutes (with marination) |
Ingredients Needed
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into slider-sized fillets)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or peanut/canola oil)
For Assembling the Sandwich:
- 4 soft slider buns
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 8 pickle slices
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for toasting buns)
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
- Slice the chicken breasts into small fillets that fit slider buns.
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken fillets, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess buttermilk drip off.
- Coat each piece generously in the breading mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, crispy layer.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken fillets for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).
- Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
- Brush slider buns with melted butter.
- Toast in a pan until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Little Sandwich
- Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place a crispy chicken fillet on top.
- Add 2 pickle slices per sandwich.
- Cover with the top bun and serve immediately!
Tips for the Best Chicken Little Recipe Sandwich
✔ Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Overnight marination makes the chicken extra juicy.
✔ Double Breading for Extra Crunch: Dip back into the buttermilk and coat again before frying.
✔ Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked perfectly at 165°F (74°C).
✔ Drain on a Wire Rack: Keeps the breading crispy by preventing sogginess.
Variations & Customizations
🔥 Spicy Chicken Little: Add hot sauce to the marinade and extra cayenne to the breading.
🧀 Cheesy Chicken Little: Add a slice of melted cheddar or pepper jack.
🍯 Honey Mustard Twist: Swap mayo for honey mustard for a sweet & tangy flavor.
🥑 Avocado Ranch Version: Add avocado slices and drizzle with ranch dressing.
Healthier Alternatives
✅ Air-Fried Chicken: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
✅ Baked Chicken: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
✅ Whole Wheat Buns: Swap white buns for a healthier option.
What to Serve with Chicken Little Recipe
🍟 French Fries – Classic crispy fries make a perfect side.
🥗 Coleslaw – A fresh, tangy slaw balances the rich flavors.
🧀 Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully.
🥒 Pickles & Chips – Light, crunchy sides to complement the sandwich.
How to Store & Reheat
🥶 Storage: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating:
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
- Avoid Microwaving! – It makes the breading soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
For best results, fry and assemble just before serving. You can prep the chicken in advance.
3. What’s the best oil for frying?
Use vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil as they have high smoke points.
4. How do I make a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free flour and buns to keep this recipe gluten-free.
5. Can I make this without buttermilk?
Yes! Substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
Conclusion
Making your own Chicken Little sandwich at home is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious! This crispy, golden-brown chicken, soft buttery bun, and tangy pickles create the ultimate homemade fast-food experience. Try this simple recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
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