Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Sandwich

When you’re in the mood for bold flavor, crispy texture, and a little fiery kick, the Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Sandwich is the ultimate homemade upgrade to your favorite fast-food classic. It’s juicy, crunchy, and layered with heat—and best of all, it’s made right in your air fryer without the mess of deep frying.

Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or game day, this sandwich brings restaurant-level flavor with easy, everyday ingredients. Add your favorite toppings, slather on some spicy mayo, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s every bit as satisfying as it looks.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, Golden Perfection – Made in the air fryer with a crunchy coating that delivers on every bite.

Fiery & Flavorful – Just the right amount of heat from cayenne, paprika, and hot sauce.

Faster than Takeout – Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Lighter, Healthier Twist – No deep fryer needed—less oil, same crunch.

Totally Customizable – Add cheese, slaw, or extra hot sauce to make it yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied or cut into cutlets)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• ½ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
• ½ cup crushed cornflakes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray

For the Spicy Mayo:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• Dash of lemon juice
• Optional: pinch of cayenne

To Serve:

• 2 brioche buns
• Pickles, shredded lettuce, tomato slices, or cheese (your call!)

Tools You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Two mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Small whisk or spoon
• Knife & cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

In a second bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, cornflakes, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from marinade and press into the coating until fully covered.

Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Goodness

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the basket with oil, place in the chicken, and lightly mist the tops. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is crisp and fully cooked.

Step 4: Mix the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, stir together mayo, hot sauce, lemon juice, and cayenne. Adjust spice level to your taste.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich

Toast your buns if you like. Spread the spicy mayo on each side, layer on the crispy chicken, pickles, lettuce, or whatever you’re into. Top it off and get ready to bite into magic.

Tips for Spicy Chicken Success

Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Soak – It tenderizes the chicken and infuses flavor.
Double Up the Crunch – Cornflakes + panko = max texture.
Adjust the Heat – Want it milder? Skip the cayenne. Want more heat? Add extra hot sauce.
Crisp It Back Up – Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to bring back the crunch.

Serving Suggestions

With Fries or Chips – Keep it classic with a side of sweet potato fries or kettle chips.
Add a Slaw – A tangy vinegar slaw adds crunch and contrast.
Go Slider-Style – Make mini sandwiches for parties or game night.
With a Milkshake – Yep, just like your favorite chicken chain combo!

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Place leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Reheating:
Pop it back into the air fryer at 375°F for 4–5 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?
Mix ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve on a GF bun.

Too spicy?
Tone it down by cutting the cayenne in half or using a mild hot sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: American

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