Chick-fil-A Deluxe

5 from 1 vote

Homemade Chick-fil-A Deluxe Sandwich (Copycat Recipe)

There’s nothing like biting into a crispy, juicy Chick-fil-A Deluxe Sandwich — and now, you can recreate it at home with simple ingredients and big flavor. This recipe delivers on that seasoned chicken filet, signature crunch, and buttery bun you love — with your choice of cheese and toppings.

Prep Time35

Cook Time10

Total Time45

Course: Chicken Recipes, Copycat Recipes, Sandwiches

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Author: Matt Price

Equipment

Heavy-bottom skillet (cast iron preferred)
Mixing Bowls
Shallow Dredging Dish
Tongs
Wire Rack or Paper Towels

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs — I used thighs because they stay juicier
¾ cup dill pickle juice
¼ cup whole milk
1 egg

For the Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoon powdered sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

For Frying:

Vegetable oil enough to fill skillet 1–1½ inches deep

For Assembling:

4 toasted hamburger buns buttered and grilled
4 slices American or Pepper Jack cheese
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Dill pickle chips
Optional: mayonnaise or Chick-fil-A sauce homemade or store-bought

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together dill pickle juice, milk, and egg.
Submerge chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes — or up to 4 hours for extra flavor.

Step 2 – Mix the Breading

While the chicken marinates, mix flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a shallow dish.
The powdered sugar might sound odd, but it adds that fast-food style crisp and a touch of balance.

Step 3 – Bread the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off.
Press each piece into the flour mixture, making sure it's well coated.
Let the breaded chicken sit for a few minutes while you heat your oil — this helps the coating stick better during frying.

Step 4 – Fry the Chicken

Heat 1–1½ inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat (around 350°F).
Fry the chicken 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Step 5 – Toast the Buns & Assemble

Butter and grill your hamburger buns until golden.
On the bottom bun, layer pickle chips, fried chicken, cheese slice, tomato, lettuce, and sauce if using.
Top with the other half of the bun.

Notes

Pro Tips for Sandwich Success

Use chicken thighs for juicier results (they’re also more forgiving when frying).
Let your breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying — it helps the coating stick better.
Toast your buns with butter to take things up a notch.
Make it your own by using different cheeses or adding bacon.

Nutrition