Name: Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon sugar; 1 cup rice flour or cornstarch; Salt and pepper, to taste; Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to deep fry, about 3 cups); 1/4 cup Thai chili sauce; 1/4 cup mayonnaise or plain yogurt; 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup pickled carrots, thinly sliced; Fresh cilantro leaves; Fresh Thai basil leaves; 4 soft buns or brioche buns, lightly toasted

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a crunchy, flavorful delight that’s bursting with unique Thai-inspired spices, you absolutely must try this Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich. Imagine tender, succulent chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and ginger, then fried to golden perfection and nestled inside a soft, toasted bun with crisp veggies and a spicy, creamy sauce. This Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is the perfect harmony of spicy, tangy, and fresh elements, making every bite irresistible and unforgettable.

Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the bold flavors and delightful textures that make the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich truly stand out. From the creamy coconut milk that tenderizes the chicken to the crunchy fresh herbs that deliver vibrant flavor, every component adds something special.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these are the star protein for perfect frying and tenderness.
Coconut milk: Adds moisture and a subtle creamy sweetness to the marinade.
Curry powder: Provides that signature warm, earthy flavor that’s unmistakably Thai-inspired.
Garlic and fresh ginger: Aromatic punches that elevate the marinade with fresh zest.
Salt and sugar: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the marinade and breading.
Rice flour or cornstarch: Ensures a light and crispy coating that’s perfect for frying.
Vegetable oil: Needed for deep frying to achieve that golden crunch.
Thai chili sauce: Brings spicy, tangy heat to the sandwich’s signature sauce.
Mayonnaise or plain yogurt: Creates a creamy base that smooths out the chili sauce’s kick.
Cucumber and pickled carrots: Fresh, crisp, and slightly tangy veggies add vital crunch and balance.
Fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves: Herbal freshness that brightens every bite.
Soft or brioche buns: Slightly sweet and tender buns to cradle all those flavors beautifully.

How to Make Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To create that deep, lush flavor, start by mixing coconut milk, curry powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly and let them soak up all those aromatic spices for at least one hour, or even better, overnight in the fridge. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with unmistakable Thai flair.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

Next, mix rice flour or cornstarch with salt and pepper on a plate. This simple coating is the secret to that irresistible crunch. After removing the chicken from the marinade (letting the excess drip off), dredge each piece in the dry mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well and gives you that perfect golden crust during frying.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the coated chicken thighs into the oil and fry them for 5-7 minutes per side until they develop a crispy, golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to keep the coating crisp and delicious.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Toppings

Whisk together Thai chili sauce and mayonnaise or plain yogurt until creamy and slightly spicy—this sauce is the perfect complement to the crispy chicken. Thinly slice cucumbers and pickled carrots, and wash fresh cilantro and Thai basil leaves to add brightness and crunch. Lightly toast the buns to develop texture and warmth, making the sandwich even more memorable.

Step 5: Assemble the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich

Spread the spicy chili mayo sauce on both halves of each toasted bun. Then layer with the crispy fried chicken, fresh cucumber slices, pickled carrots, and aromatic herbs like cilantro and Thai basil. Top with the other bun half and gently press to hold all those fantastic layers together. And just like that, your Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like extra Thai basil leaves, cilantro sprigs, or even a thin slice of fresh chili can elevate the sandwich with more herbal notes and a touch of heat. A light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on the sauce can also add an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp Asian slaw, sweet potato fries, or even a simple green salad dressed with lime juice and a touch of fish sauce. These options balance the sandwich’s richness and keep the meal feeling vibrant and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve your Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich open-faced on a wooden board with small bowls of extra chili mayo and pickled vegetables on the side. Wrapping the sandwich in parchment paper tied with twine also adds rustic charm and makes it perfect for picnics or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover fried chicken and sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping the chicken and buns apart helps maintain the crispy texture and prevents sogginess. Prepare sandwiches fresh when ready to eat for the best experience.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken thighs individually on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to one month. Avoid freezing the assembled sandwich to retain maximum freshness and texture. When ready to use, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To bring back that delightful crispiness, reheat the chicken in a hot oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crunchy. Avoid microwaving as it will make the coating soggy. Toast fresh buns just before serving and add fresh toppings for a sandwich that tastes like it’s just been made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that thighs are generally juicier and more forgiving when frying, whereas breasts can dry out more easily. If using breasts, consider pounding them evenly and monitoring cooking time closely.

What if I don’t have Thai chili sauce?

If you don’t have Thai chili sauce, you can use a mix of sriracha and sweet chili sauce or even a blend of hot sauce with a little honey to mimic the balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Is rice flour necessary for the coating?

Rice flour or cornstarch helps create that extra crispy texture on the fried chicken. All-purpose flour could work but may not result in the same light crunch that makes this sandwich stand out.

How spicy is the Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich?

The spice level can be adjusted easily by varying the amount of Thai chili sauce in the mayo. It has a pleasant kick that complements the creamy sauce, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot unless you go heavy on the chili.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using rice flour for breading and ensuring your buns are gluten-free allows for a delicious gluten-free Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich without compromising on texture or flavor.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make this Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for an unforgettable meal. The perfect combination of spicy, crunchy, tender, and fresh makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Go ahead, give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s so special. Your taste buds will thank you!

Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: Hugo
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Thai Fried Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful fusion dish featuring crispy, curry-marinated chicken thighs fried to golden perfection. Served on soft toasted buns with a spicy Thai chili mayo, fresh cucumber slices, tangy pickled carrots, and aromatic herbs like cilantro and Thai basil, this sandwich offers a delightful combination of textures and vibrant Southeast Asian flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Combine coconut milk, curry powder, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Prepare the Breading: Mix rice flour or cornstarch with salt and pepper on a plate. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the dry mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks evenly.
Fry the Chicken: Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Prepare the Sauce and Toppings: Whisk together Thai chili sauce and mayonnaise or yogurt until creamy and spicy. Slice cucumbers and pickled carrots thinly. Wash and dry fresh herbs. Lightly toast the buns for texture and warmth.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the chili mayo on both halves of each toasted bun. Layer with crispy fried chicken, cucumber slices, pickled carrots, and fresh herbs. Top with the other bun half and gently press to secure.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
Rice flour yields a lighter, crispier coating but cornstarch works well too.
Adjust the spiciness of the chili mayo by adding more or less Thai chili sauce.
Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
Pickled carrots can be prepared in advance or store-bought can be used for convenience.
To make it gluten-free, ensure the buns are gluten-free or substitute with lettuce wraps.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Deep Frying
Cuisine: Thai