Crispy Panko Fried Chicken Caesar Sandwich

This viral panko fried chicken Caesar sandwich features buttermilk-marinated chicken coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and topped with homemade Caesar dressing and fresh romaine. The superior crunch of panko creates the ultimate chicken sandwich that's taking social media by storm with multiple cooking method options.

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Ingredients

- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs beaten
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 brioche rolls toasted
- 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese shaved
- Oil for cooking

Instructions

Marinate chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for 1+ hours. Make Caesar dressing by whisking mayo, Parmesan, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and Worcestershire.
Set up breading stations: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then press firmly into panko for complete coating.
Cook using preferred method: Fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes per side, bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, or air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until 165°F internal temperature.
Rest chicken 5 minutes. Toss romaine with Caesar dressing.
Assemble sandwiches with dressed lettuce, crispy chicken, and shaved Parmesan on toasted buns.

Notes

- Press panko firmly for maximum crunch and coverage
- Multiple cooking methods available for different equipment
- Caesar dressing can be made 2 days ahead
- Internal temperature must reach 165°F for food safety