Spice up your life with Wendy’s fiery Chicken Sandwich!
My friend, let me tell you something, are you ready to experience a life-changing moment? Because today, I’m here to introduce you to the Wendy’s spicy chicken fillet sandwich recipe. You heard it right, the very same one that has made you drool every time you passed by Wendy’s restaurant. Let me tell you something, my dear friend, this recipe is a game-changer.
Imagine crispy chicken, cooked to perfection on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes drizzled with garlicky mayo, all generously spiced up with chili flakes and hot sauce. My mouth is watering just by thinking about it.
Don’t let your taste buds suffer any longer! The recipe could not be any simpler, but the taste is simply unforgettable. Trust me, once you get your hands on this copycat Wendy’s spicy chicken fillet sandwich recipe; there will be no going back. So grab your apron and joining me, it’s time we make Wendy’s history in our own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, my fellow foodies! This recipe is not for the faint of heart, but trust me when I say that it’s worth every bite. Let me tell you why you’re going to love this Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich recipe.
First and foremost, it is a savory and crispy delight. The crunch of the spicy chicken fillet coupled with the buttery toasted bun is a match made in heaven. The blend of chili powder, cayenne pepper and black pepper used to season the flour gives the chicken an explosive flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy chicken fillet that leaves your mouth incredibly satisfied without being greasy or heavy- that’s the kind of experience that awaits you! It’s mind-blowing how something so simple and easy to make in your kitchen can taste so amazing.
And not to forget about the toppings – lettuce, tomato, mayo and some hot sauce – that elevate this sandwich with their contrasting flavors and textures. The interplay of fresh and tangy against the bold spiciness would keep you reaching for bites until the sandwich disappears from your plate.
Moreover, if you’re someone who loves a little kick in their meals, this copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich recipe is all about that spicy life. The recipe calls for plenty of Frank’s original hot sauce which gives every bite an extra zing. You could dial down the spice levels by tweaking the amount of spice included in the recipe but trust us when we say- you’d want all things extra spiced!
Overall, this sandwich easily beats restaurant versions in terms of customization options; you could control most of what goes into making it such as type of breads or buns , level of spiciness etc -while still staying true to the original recipe. You can’t go wrong with replicating one of Wendy’s best selling item.
So give it a try; once you make it yourself, we guarantee it’ll become a staple meal at your house as well!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich:
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cutlets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2/3 cup Frank’s RedHot hot pepper sauce
- 2/3 cup water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon (10g) butter
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 4 dashes of hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the sandwich:
- Toasted bun
- Crisp lettuce leaves
- Sliced fresh tomatoes
- Creamy mayonnaise
- Pickled jalapenos and jalapeno juice (optional)
Most of these ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store. Make sure to have all your ingredients on hand before starting, so you can focus on creating the perfect spicy chicken fillet sandwich!
The Recipe How-To
Bread and Season the chicken
- Step 1: Take 4 chicken breasts cutlets, about 2 cups of buttermilk, and 4 dashes of hot sauce. In a large bowl, whisk the buttermilk and hot sauce together.
- Step 2: Place the chicken cutlets in the mixture and cover them properly. Set aside and allow to marinate for at least one hour.
- Step 3: Take a shallow dish, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with salt (1 tablespoon), black pepper (1 tablespoon), garlic powder (1 tablespoon), cayenne pepper (1 tablespoon), and chili powder (1 tablespoon).
- Step 4: Take one piece of chicken out of the mixture, shake off any excess buttermilk from the chicken, then coat well with the flour mixture.
- Step 5: Once all of the chicken breasts are coated in the mixture, heat up canola oil (about 2/3 cup) with butter (2 tablespoons) in a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it gets to approximately 350°F.
Fry the Chicken
- Step 6: Carefully add the chicken into the heated oil in batches without overcrowding.
- Step 7: Fry each fillet for about three to four minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 8: Set cooked pieces aside over some paper towels to drain.
Prepare Sauce and Assemble Sandwich
- Step 9: To start with Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet sauce recipe, mix pickled jalapenos (1 cup) and jalapeno juice (1 cup) with mayonnaise (1 cup). Blend thoroughly.
- Step 10: The final step: assemble your spicy chicken sandwich! Toast a bun, spread tomato mayo onto both sides, then arrange lettuce leaves and tomato slices. Place a spicy chicken piece on top of one half, followed by sliced pickles and a liberal amount of your hot sauce. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your homemade version of Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich!
Substitutions and Variations
You know, a recipe is like a blank canvas that can be adorned in a variety of ways to make it your own masterpiece. And this Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a healthier or different spin on the original recipe or just adding some pizzazz, there are many variations and substitutions you can make with this recipe.
Firstly, let’s talk about the protein. This sandwich calls for boneless skinless chicken breasts cutlets, but I’ve got good news for all of my beef lovers out there. You can easily swap the chicken for beef cutlets or steak to create a spicy beef sandwich that is full of flavor and texture.
If you’re trying to be healthier, consider swapping out the fried chicken for grilled chicken breasts or opt for an air fryer recipe. You’ll still get that tasty heat and juiciness from the chicken without all of the oil and calories.
When it comes to the bun, you can switch things up by using a brioche bun, pretzel bun, or even a classic white bread bun if that’s what you prefer. And if you’re one of those people who like an extra crispy edge on their sandwich, I suggest using bacon jalapeno chicken instead of regular chicken fillets.
Now let’s talk about toppings. If you’re not into tomato or lettuce leaves, you can always swap them out with avocado slices, pickles, or even crispy onion rings to add some crunch. To add extra heat to your sandwich, use hot pepper sauce instead of chili powder. Or try mixing your mayo with cayenne pepper or garlic powder for added flavor options.
Finally, if you’re looking to really wow your dining companions with something unexpected but deliciously satisfying, try making this spicy chicken burger as opposed to the sandwich. The same ingredients as the copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe can be sandwiched between two scrumptious burger buns and topped off with juicy slices of tomato and crispy lettuce.
No matter how you decide to make this recipe your own, remember that experimentation is key! So go ahead and let your inner chef out and make this Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe uniquely yours.
Serving and Pairing
Alright folks, listen up. You’ve finally done it. You’ve created a masterpiece – the Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich. And now, the question arises: how do you serve it and what do you pair it with?
First things first, let’s talk about that toasted bun. Slather it up with some tomato mayo and stack on some fresh crisp lettuce leaves and juicy tomato slices. Then comes that spicy chicken fillet, breaded to perfection with just the right amount of kick from chili powder and cayenne pepper.
But we’re not done yet, my friends. We’ve got to add some extra zing to this already fiery sandwich. Drizzle on some hot sauce or pepper sauce for an even bigger punch of spice.
Now, what should you pair this fiery delight with? How about some fries? Because who doesn’t love fries? Go classic with some plain old french fries or put a twist on it with some garlic parmesan fries or bacon jalapeno cheese fries.
For those who want something a little lighter to balance out the heat, a side salad with a zesty dressing will do the trick.
For drinks, go for something cool and refreshing like an ice-cold soda or a sweet tea to counterbalance the spiciness of the sandwich.
So there you have it folks, the perfect pairing for your Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich. Enjoy!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, the age-old question of how to make leftovers just as good as the first round. Well, my friends, with this Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich recipe, you’re in luck because it’s easy to make ahead and reheat without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
If you plan on making these sandwiches in advance, I suggest cooking the chicken cutlets and then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply toast your buns and assemble the sandwich with the lettuce, tomato, mayo, and spicy chicken fillet.
Now if you overestimated how much food you need or maybe you want to meal prep for the week ahead, these sandwiches can also be frozen for up to two months! Once again, pre-cook your chicken cutlets using the recipe instructions and then let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
To reheat your pre-cooked or frozen chicken fillets, simply place them into a 350-degree oven until they are heated through (about 15-20 minutes). Alternatively, if time is not on your side, try reheating them in an air fryer for an even crispier option.
One suggestion for when reheating these bad boys is to heat up some extra hot sauce or pickled jalapeno juice on the stove so that when you assemble your sandwich it doesn’t lack that spicy kick that makes this recipe so unique.
Believe me when I say that taste does not diminish with reheating. So go ahead, make those meals ahead of time and save yourself some time without sacrificing taste!
Tips for Perfect Results
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from making this Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe a hundred times, it’s that the little things matter. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect crispy, juicy chicken fillet sandwich:
First, make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and turn out soggy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Use a thermometer to ensure that your oil is between 350-375°F.
Additionally, don’t skimp on the seasoning. The combination of chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt gives this sandwich its signature spiciness. Make sure you’re generous with the seasoning both in the flour mixture and in the buttermilk marinade.
Speaking of the marinade, make sure you let your chicken soak in it for at least 2 hours to ensure moist and flavorful meat. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor.
Buttermilk isn’t always easy to find in stores so if you can’t find any, you can easily make your own substitute by mixing together regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
When it comes to breading, use one hand for dry ingredients (flour) and another for wet ingredients (buttermilk) to prevent clumping and sticking as well as keeping your hands clean!
Finally, serve your spicy chicken fillet sandwich immediately after assembling. It loses its crunch quickly so try to assemble everything right before serving.
Follow these tips and you’ll be able to enjoy a crunchy-on-the-outside-juicy-on-the-inside spicy chicken fillet sandwich that could rival even Chick-fil-A or Wendy’s restaurant!
FAQ
As with any recipe, questions and uncertainties can come up, so let’s address some frequently asked questions about this copycat Wendy’s spicy chicken fillet sandwich recipe. Not sure about ingredient substitutes or cooking methods? Want to know how to make the perfect crispy chicken fillet or how to store your leftovers? Check out the answers to these questions and more in this section.
What does Wendys use on their spicy chicken sandwich?
Get ready for an explosion of flavors in every bite with our fiery and succulent chicken breast! Marinated to perfection and coated with a blend of peppers and spices that is sure to excite your taste buds, our chicken guarantees a burst of delightful taste both inside and out. Coupled with refreshing lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy mayo to balance out the heat, this dish is one you definitely won’t want to miss.
What makes Wendy’s spicy chicken sandwich spicy?
Looking for a sandwich that can satisfy your taste buds? The Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich might be just what you need. The mix of black pepper, chili pepper, and mustard seed gives this sandwich a unique kick that adds to its tenderness and flavor. It’s served on a premium toasted bun, drizzled with mayo, and topped with crisp lettuce and a juicy red tomato. If you’re looking for a sandwich with a little bit of heat and a lot of flavor, this might just be the one for you.
Does Wendy’s put mayo on their chicken sandwich?
Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender chicken breast that’s perfectly coated in a light, crispy breading. Nestled between a toasted bun, you’ll find the refreshing crunch of lettuce and tomato, a creamy slather of mayonnaise, and the zing of perfectly pickled cucumbers. This classic combination is a tantalizing fusion of comforting familiarity and thrilling new flavors.
What does Wendy’s put on their grilled chicken sandwich?
How about a juicy grilled chicken breast that has been marinated in herbs and topped with fresh lettuce, tomato and a dollop of mayonnaise? The chicken is served sandwiched between two warm toasted buns, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, followers of fast-food will no longer be held hostage to the drive-through line with this copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe. It’s easy-to-follow instructions and available ingredients will leave you in awe. You’ll fall in love with the juicy and crispy chicken which is seasoned to perfection with chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
If you want to give your taste buds a tangy twist, you can add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for that extra kick. You can customize things to fit your taste buds when you make it at home, from choosing high-quality chicken breasts cutlets to selecting just the right spice combo.
Don’t put off making this sandwich recipe because it’s sure to become a family favorite. Once you’ve mastered the recipe, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to put together your own version of Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich.
So whether you’re flying solo or entertaining guests at home, this sandwich is perfect for serving up on game day or anytime you’re craving something delicious and indulgent.
Try out this recipe today and unleash your inner chef skills. Remember that the possibilities are endless ,so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations until you find the perfect fit. Happy cooking!
Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Fillet Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cutlets
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeno juice
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 dashes hot sauce
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated onion
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 -6 cups canola oil or 4 -6 cups vegetable oil
- 4 potato buns
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 4 green leaf lettuce leaves
- 4 slices tomatoes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, jalapeño juice, buttermilk and hot sauce. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour, more if you have the time.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, and chili powder.
- To dredge the chicken, remove each piece from the buttermilk mixture and dip into the seasoned flour. Dip once again into the buttermilk and once more into the dry ingredients. Place the dredged chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and continue coating the remaining chicken pieces. Allow the coated chicken to rest while you heat up the oil. This will prevent the coating from falling off during frying.
- Pour the oil into a large pot and heat up to 365 degrees F. Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, cooking it in batches to not overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and the chicken reaches 165 degrees, about 4 to 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the oven and place on a clean wire rack, set over a baking sheet.
- Set a large pan or griddle over medium high heat, melt the butter and toast the buns, cut side down.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread the buns with mayonnaise and place a chicken on each bottom bun. Top with lettuce and tomato and the top bun. Serve immediately.
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.