I’ve found my ultimate weeknight hero in this incredible fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack, and I can’t wait for you to try it.
Our fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion, mixing crunchy, juicy chicken with a vibrant, tangy slaw that absolutely pops, offering an irresistible crunch.
Busy families and foodies seeking simple perfection will adore this family-friendly dish, transforming an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-quality feast right at home.
What You’ll Need for Your Epic Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Purple Slaw Stack
For the Crispy Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-6, approx. 600-900g): My go-to for juicy, tender chicken that stands up to frying. (Chicken breasts also work; adjust frying time as they cook faster.)
- Buttermilk (2 cups, approx. 480ml): Essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding a subtle tang.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups, approx. 240g): The base for our crispy coating.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup, approx. 60g): The secret for an extra-crispy exterior.
- Seasonings (1 tbsp/15ml each: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder; 1 tsp/5ml cayenne; salt & pepper to taste): These bring layers of savory, slightly spicy flavor.
- Vegetable oil (4-6 cups, approx. 1-1.4L): For achieving that perfect golden, deep-fried crispness.
For the Vibrant Purple Slaw Stack:
- Red cabbage (1/2 head, thinly shredded, approx. 400g): The star for its vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
- Carrots (2 medium, shredded, approx. 120g): Adds natural sweetness and texture to the slaw.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup, approx. 120g): Creates a creamy, rich base for the dressing. (For a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt is a great swap.)
- Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp, approx. 30ml): Provides that essential tangy kick and brightens the flavors.
- Dijon mustard (1 tsp, approx. 5ml): Adds a subtle, sophisticated depth.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tsp, approx. 5ml): Balances the acidity and sweetness.
- Salt & pepper to taste.
For Assembly:
- Brioche buns (4-6): Soft, slightly sweet, and the perfect rich contrast to the savory chicken and tangy slaw.
- Pickles (dill slices): Absolutely essential for a bright, tangy zing and classic sandwich flavor.
Smart Swaps & Upgrades:
Making smart ingredient choices can elevate your fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack. For a premium experience, choose free-range chicken and organic vegetables. If you’re on a budget, chicken breasts work just as well as thighs (just adjust cooking time), and any sturdy sandwich bun will do.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for easy dinner ideas that fit dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free: Create a ‘buttermilk’ by mixing almond milk with a tablespoon of vinegar, and use a vegan mayonnaise for the slaw.
- Freshness Tip: Always use very fresh cabbage and carrots for the crispiest, most satisfying slaw crunch.
Step-by-Step Method Made Simple for Your Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Purple Slaw Stack
Chicken Prep (20 mins active, 4 hours-overnight marinating):
- Marinate: Cut chicken into sandwich-sized pieces, about 1-inch thick. Submerge the pieces in buttermilk in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, allowing the chicken to tenderize and absorb flavor. You’ll notice the chicken becoming slightly firmer and paler.
- Season Flour: In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should look evenly spiced.
- Dredge: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off for a few seconds. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a complete, thick coating. Shake off any excess flour gently. This coating should feel dry and flaky. If the flour doesn’t adhere well, ensure your chicken isn’t too wet; pat it slightly drier before dredging.
Slaw Assembly (10 mins):
This vibrant purple slaw is what truly makes our fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack shine, adding incredible texture and flavor.
- Combine Veggies: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thinly shredded red cabbage and carrots. They should look vibrant and crisp.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. The dressing should be pale and pourable.
- Dress Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly to coat every shred of cabbage and carrot. Allow the dressed slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly soften, but still retain its crunch.
Frying & Assembly (20-30 mins):
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large Dutch oven or deep skillet to a depth of about 3 inches (7-8 cm). I prefer using my trusty cast iron Dutch oven for even heat and less splattering when making these for our family dinners. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You’ll see slight shimmering.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully lower 2-3 chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is deeply golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). The crust should be visibly crispy and firm.
- Rest & Toast: Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. While it rests, lightly toast the brioche buns in a dry skillet or toaster until lightly golden.
- Stack: Place a warm, crispy fried chicken piece on the bottom bun. Top generously with a big scoop of the Purple Slaw Stack and a few tangy dill pickle slices. Add the top bun and serve your hearty, family-friendly fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack immediately!
Quick Tips & Troubleshooting:
- Faster Method: For a crispier, less oily finish, air fry your chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway. This shortcut helps you enjoy your fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack even faster on busy evenings.
- Healthier Twist: Bake the chicken instead of frying. Place dredged chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for approx. 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Common Mistake 1: Overcrowding the pan dramatically lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, less crispy chicken. Always fry in small batches!
- Common Mistake 2: Not marinating long enough (less than 4 hours) can lead to tougher, less flavorful chicken. Plan ahead for the best tender texture.
Perfect Occasions and Serving Inspiration for Your Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Purple Slaw Stack
This fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack is perfect for many family occasions, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
- Serve it:
- Weeknight Hero: Quick enough for busy evenings, satisfying for everyone.
- Game Day Grub: The ultimate crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings.
- Backyard BBQ: A fantastic alternative to traditional burgers.
- Next-Level Lunchbox: Pack individual components for a gourmet lunch.
- Pair it:
- Sides: Sweet potato fries, a light green salad, or corn on the cob.
- Toppings: A drizzle of hot honey, a dollop of spicy mayo, or extra pickles.
- Beverages: Cold lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp sparkling water.
Storage & Reheating: For delicious leftovers, store fried chicken and slaw components separately in airtight containers. This maintains quality and crunch for easy meal prep.
- Fridge: Store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to prevent sogginess.
- Freezer: Fried chicken freezes well for up to 1 month. Reheat chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until crisp and hot.
- Meal Prep: Prepare slaw dressing and shred cabbage/carrots ahead. Marinate chicken overnight. Fry fresh when ready to serve.
Nutrition & Everyday Wellness Benefits of this Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
This fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack offers great nutritional value for healthy eating and family dinners.
- Fuel Your Day: Provides balanced protein and vibrant vegetables for sustained energy.
- High-Protein: Chicken offers essential amino acids for muscle repair and satiety.
- Rich in Fiber: Purple slaw adds valuable dietary fiber for digestive health.
- Vitamin-Packed: Red cabbage and carrots are full of vitamins A and C.
- Easy Meal Prep: Fantastic for meal prep recipes, streamlining healthy weeknight meals.
- Customizable: Easily adapt for a weight-friendly approach or quick protein snack.
Why This Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Works for You
My family loves this fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack because it truly simplifies dinner.
- Time-Saver: Faster than takeout with smart prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Significantly cheaper than restaurant versions.
- Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults, encouraging shared meal times.
- Diet Fit: Easily adaptable to gluten-free, dairy-free, or lighter dietary needs.
Smart Upgrades and Adjustments for Your Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Purple Slaw Stack
Elevate your sandwich experience with these simple tweaks and adaptations. It’s easy to make this dish uniquely yours.
- Technique Tips:
- Double-Dredge: Dip marinated chicken back into buttermilk (or egg wash) then into flour again for extra crispiness. I find this creates an unbeatable craggy texture.
- Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temp between 325-350°F (160-175°C) for perfect results.
- Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or a pinch more cayenne to the flour.
- Herbaceous: Mix fresh chopped parsley or chives into the slaw dressing.
- Smoky: Use smoked paprika in the chicken coating for a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Diet Adaptations:
- Low-Carb: Serve the fried chicken (or grilled chicken) in crisp lettuce wraps with the slaw for a delicious low-carb meal.
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based chicken fillets (e.g., oyster mushrooms or firm tofu) and vegan buttermilk/mayo.
- Kid-Friendly: Offer plain fried chicken tenders with a side of slaw, or skip the pickles.
Reader Q&A About Your Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe Purple Slaw Stack
Here are some common questions about making this amazing sandwich.
Q: Can I prepare the fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Marinate the chicken overnight and prepare the slaw dressing a day in advance. Store the fried chicken and slaw components separately for best results, assembling just before serving.
Q: Is this fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack good for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This is one of my favorite meal prep recipes. You can cook the chicken and make the slaw ahead; then simply reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispness before assembly. It makes for quick meals during busy weeknights.
Q: What’s the best way to store the fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack?
A: Store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to prevent sogginess. For longer storage, the fried chicken can be frozen for up to a month.
Q: Are there healthier substitutes for this fried chicken sandwich recipe?
A: Yes, for a healthier approach, air fry or bake the chicken instead of deep frying. You can also use whole wheat buns and opt for a lighter mayonnaise or a Greek yogurt-based dressing for the slaw for a low-carb alternative.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this fried chicken sandwich recipe?
A: Yes, chicken breasts work very well! Just be mindful that they may cook faster than thighs, so adjust frying time and monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking and keep them juicy. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
Q: How do I make the slaw extra crunchy?
A: For maximum crunch, ensure your cabbage and carrots are very fresh. I sometimes lightly salt the shredded cabbage, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then squeeze out any excess water before mixing with the dressing. This really enhances the texture.
Conclusion
This fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack brings incredible flavor and convenience to your family table. It’s a satisfying option that I know you’ll love as much as we do.
Save this easy family dinner recipe on Pinterest so you always have a winning meal idea ready!
fried chicken sandwich recipe Purple Slaw Stack
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This recipe delivers an incredible fried chicken sandwich with a vibrant, tangy purple slaw, offering an irresistible crunch. It’s a family-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights, transforming an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, approx. 600-900 g
- 2 cups buttermilk, approx. 480 ml
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, approx. 240 g
- 0.5 cup cornstarch, approx. 60 g
- 1 tbsp paprika, 15 ml
- 1 tbsp garlic powder, 15 ml
- 1 tbsp onion powder, 15 ml
- 1 tsp cayenne, 5 ml
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4–6 cups vegetable oil, approx. 1-1.4 L
- 0.5 head red cabbage, thinly shredded, approx. 400 g
- 2 medium carrots, shredded, approx. 120 g
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise, approx. 120 g
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, approx. 30 ml
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard, approx. 5 ml
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup, approx. 5 ml
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 4–6 brioche buns
- Dill pickle slices
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Cut chicken into sandwich-sized pieces (about 1-inch thick). Submerge the pieces in buttermilk in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
- Season Flour Mixture: In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Dredge Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a complete, thick coating. Shake off any excess flour gently.
- Combine Slaw Vegetables: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the thinly shredded red cabbage and carrots.
- Prepare Slaw Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Dress Slaw: Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetables. Toss thoroughly to coat every shred. Allow the dressed slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Heat Frying Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large Dutch oven or deep skillet to a depth of about 3 inches (7-8 cm). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Chicken: Carefully lower 2-3 chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Chicken and Toast Buns: Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. While it rests, lightly toast the brioche buns in a dry skillet or toaster until lightly golden.
- Assemble and Serve: Place a warm, crispy fried chicken piece on the bottom bun. Top generously with a big scoop of the Purple Slaw Stack and a few tangy dill pickle slices. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
For a faster or healthier option, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to prevent greasy chicken. Ensure chicken marinates for at least 4 hours for tender results. Use fresh cabbage and carrots for the crispiest slaw. Gluten-free flour blend or dairy-free swaps (almond milk with vinegar for buttermilk, vegan mayo) are possible.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 300 g)
- Calories: 720 calories
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 50 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: fried chicken sandwich, purple slaw, crispy chicken, weeknight meal, family-friendly, tangy slaw, easy dinner, deep fried, brioche, pickles