Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Style Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Craving that iconic Chick-fil-A sandwich at home? This air fryer version gives you tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust — all nestled in a soft bun with tangy pickles. It’s golden, guilt-free, and absolutely addictive!
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes (plus 30–60 minutes marinade time)
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half for 4 fillets)
1 cup dill pickle juice (for marinating)
½ cup milk
1 egg
For the Breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp powdered sugar (key Chick-fil-A flavor secret)
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for slight heat)
Cooking spray or oil spray, for crisping
For the Sandwich:
Soft hamburger buns or brioche buns
Butter, for toasting buns
Dill pickle slices
Optional: lettuce, tomato, mayo
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken (30–60 minutes)
Place halved chicken breasts in a bowl or bag with pickle juice.
Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, up to 1 hour for maximum flavor.
Prep the Coating Station (5 minutes)
In a shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Bread the Chicken (5 minutes)
Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry.
Dip each fillet into the egg-milk mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour.
For extra crispiness, repeat the dipping and dredging (double coat).
Place on a tray and spray both sides generously with oil spray.
Air Fry the Chicken (10–12 minutes)
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Place chicken fillets in the basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spray again when flipping for best crisp.
Chicken is done when golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Toast Buns & Assemble (2–3 minutes)
Lightly butter buns and toast in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 350°F or on a pan until golden.
Layer each bottom bun with 2–3 dill pickle slices, top with crispy chicken, and finish with bun top.
Add optional toppings like mayo, lettuce, or tomato if desired.
Nutrition (Per Sandwich, approx.)
Calories: ~480
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 900mg
Tips & Variations
Spicy Version: Add 1 tsp hot sauce to egg wash and extra cayenne to flour.
Deluxe Style: Add lettuce, tomato, and American cheese.
Gluten-Free Option: Use GF flour and buns.
Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate and bread chicken in advance; freeze, then air fry when ready.