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u3887994962 crispy lemon pepper chicken sandwich golden crunc 9c1b50bd d9c9 4784 98c0 35a8cad0359e 2

Ultimate Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Sandwich

Golden crispy fried chicken infused with fresh lemon zest and cracked black pepper, served on a toasted bun with creamy lemon sauce and crisp toppings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken & Marinade
  • 2 large Boneless skinless chicken breasts halved lengthwise
  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest fresh
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice fresh
  • 1.5 tsp Cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
Breading
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • for frying Vegetable oil
Lemon Pepper Sauce
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Lemon zest
  • 0.5 tsp Cracked black pepper
Assembly
  • 4 Brioche buns toasted
  • 4 Lettuce leaves
  • 8 Pickle slices

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Deep Skillet or Frying Pan
  • Wire rack
  • Tongs

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Remove chicken from marinade and dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture.
  3. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper to make the sauce.
  5. Toast buns, spread sauce, add lettuce, crispy chicken, and pickles. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 15–18 minutes. Store leftovers separately to maintain texture.