Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich is the perfect balance of textures and flavors: the crunchy, golden-brown chicken, the creamy and smoky romesco sauce, and the crispy toasted bread come together to create a mouthwatering experience. The addition of fresh greens like arugula or spinach adds a refreshing touch, while optional toppings like avocado and pickled jalapeños take this sandwich to the next level. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for anyone craving a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
½ cup flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for frying
1 cup romesco sauce (store-bought or homemade)
4 slices of crusty bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or your choice)
Fresh arugula or spinach, for garnish
Optional toppings: sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or red onion

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:
Flatten the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about ½ inch thickness.
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
Coat in Eggs:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip the seasoned chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Crust with Breadcrumbs:
Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish. Press the chicken into the breadcrumbs, coating both sides well.
Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough olive oil to cover the bottom. When the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts.
Fry the Chicken:
Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Toast the Bread:
In the same skillet, quickly toast the slices of bread for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add pickled jalapeños or a few slices of fresh chili for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a crispy breaded eggplant or portobello mushroom for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Different Sauces: If you’re not a fan of romesco sauce, try using aioli, pesto, or chipotle mayo for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and romesco sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to crisp up again. You can also reheat the bread in a toaster or oven to keep it crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make the romesco sauce ahead of time?

Yes, romesco sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The outside should be golden brown and crispy.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour to make the sandwich gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you like, such as baguette, focaccia, or a hearty multigrain bread.

Can I add cheese to this sandwich?

Yes, adding cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone can add extra creaminess and flavor to the sandwich.

Can I freeze the breaded chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before frying. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry them directly from frozen.

What can I substitute for romesco sauce?

If you don’t have romesco sauce, you can substitute it with any flavorful sauce such as sun-dried tomato pesto, roasted red pepper sauce, or even a smoky barbecue sauce.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs, and double-dip the chicken by coating it in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs again.

Can I add vegetables to this sandwich?

Yes, fresh vegetables like roasted red peppers, grilled onions, or sautéed mushrooms would make a great addition to this sandwich.

Conclusion

The Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich is a delightful, flavorful meal that combines crispy, golden chicken with the smoky richness of romesco sauce, all wrapped up in toasted bread. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, this sandwich is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more!