why make this recipe
Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich is a delicious and unique meal that combines crispy chicken with creamy pimento cheese and a hint of sweetness from honey. This sandwich is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. The flavors are bright and offer a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and sweet. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy chicken in a different style!
how to make Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 2 small chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pickle juice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups cauli crunch (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (divided)
- 1 8-ounce block sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
- 2 tablespoons avocado mayo
- 1 4-ounce jar pimentos (drained)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chopped tame jalapeños
- 6 whole wheat buns
- 1/3 cup pickled tame jalapeño slices
- 2 teaspoons honey
Directions:
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise and then cut them to make 6 thin pieces.
- Marinate the chicken in pickle juice and milk for 15 minutes while making the pimento cheese.
- In a bowl, grate the cheddar cheese and combine it with mayo, pimentos, salt, and chopped jalapeños. Stir until creamy and set aside.
- Set up a dredging station: put tapioca on one plate, whisked egg in a shallow bowl, and cauli crunch on another plate. Mix the onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt into the cauli crunch.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the marinade, dredge each piece in tapioca, then egg, and finally coat with cauli crunch. Place them on a plate.
- Heat half of the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook 2 chicken pieces for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Repeat with the remaining oil and chicken.
- Place buns on a cookie sheet face up and broil for 1-2 minutes to toast the inside. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Assemble the sandwiches: on the bottom bun, add jalapeños, then a chicken piece, drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon of honey, top with pimento cheese, and finish with the top bun.
how to serve Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich
Serve the sandwiches warm with some extra pickled jalapeños on the side. You can also add a simple salad or chips for a complete meal. These sandwiches are great for gatherings and will impress your friends and family!
how to store Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for 2-3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet or the oven until heated through.
tips to make Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for the full 15 minutes for more flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- You can adjust the amount of jalapeños to fit your spice level preference.
variation
For a healthier version, you can grill the chicken instead of frying it. You can also replace the whole wheat buns with lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. If you want a creamier pimento cheese, you might add some cream cheese to the mixture.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A1: Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
Q2: What if I can’t find cauli crunch?
A2: You can substitute it with regular breadcrumbs or panko.
Q3: Can I make pimento cheese in advance?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the pimento cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
