Name: Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup full-fat mayonnaise; 3 tbsp Greek yogurt; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1-2 garlic cloves (minced); ¼ tsp black pepper; Pinch sea salt; 5 chicken cutlets; Sea salt (to taste); Ground black pepper (to taste); Oil (for frying); ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp salt (for flour mix); ¾ tsp smoked paprika; 2 eggs; ¼ tsp salt (for egg wash); ¾ cup panko crumbs; ¼ cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp dried parsley; ½ tsp ground black pepper; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 2 romaine hearts (chopped); 1-2 French baguettes; Parmesan cheese (freshly grated, for sprinkling)

Jump to Recipe

There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly made Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich to brighten up your day. Imagine tender chicken cutlets coated in a crunchy, golden crust, paired with the zingy creaminess of homemade Caesar dressing and the fresh crunch of romaine lettuce all hugged by a crusty French baguette. This sandwich bursts with flavor and texture, transforming a classic Caesar salad into a hearty, satisfying meal that will quickly become one of your favorites. Whether for lunch, a casual dinner, or sharing with friends, this Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich delivers comfort and gourmet vibes all in one bite.

Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich is all about using simple, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the rich mayonnaise and tangy Greek yogurt in the dressing to the crisp panko breadcrumbs coating the chicken, every component adds an essential layer of flavor, texture, or freshness.

Full-fat mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the Caesar dressing that balances acidity and richness.
Greek yogurt: Adds a subtle tang and lightens the mayo for a perfectly smooth dressing.
Dijon mustard: Inserts a gentle kick that elevates the dressing’s complexity.
Worcestershire sauce: Introduces deep umami notes, integral to classic Caesar flavor.
Lemon juice: Provides fresh brightness and acidity to brighten the sandwich.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Essential for bold, nutty flavor in the dressing and breadcrumb coating.
Garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a savory boost.
Black pepper and sea salt: Balance and enhance all the flavors throughout.
Chicken cutlets: Tender and quick-cooking, perfect for this sandwich.
All-purpose flour: Creates a light base layer for the chicken breading to help coatings stick.
Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the flour mixture.
Eggs: Binds the breading layers firmly to the chicken for that unbeatable crunch.
Panko and breadcrumbs: Provide an ultra-crispy, golden texture that makes each bite so satisfying.
Dried parsley, oregano, garlic powder: Herbaceous and fragrant seasonings to flavor the breadcrumbs.
Romaine hearts (chopped): Crisp and refreshing greens to complement the rich chicken and dressing.
French baguettes: Sturdy and crusty, ideal to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Caesar Dressing and Salad

Start by combining mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, black pepper, and sea salt in a bowl. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Then, toss 4 to 5 tablespoons of this dressing with the chopped romaine lettuce, cover, and refrigerate the salad and the remaining dressing separately. This ensures your salad stays fresh and crisp and your dressing perfectly ready for assembling later.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken Cutlets

Next, lay out your chicken cutlets and check for any uneven thickness. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even layer, which helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides with sea salt and ground black pepper to build the foundation of flavor for your crispy crust and juicy chicken interior.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Organization here is key. On three shallow plates, place the flour mixed with salt and smoked paprika on the first plate. Whisk eggs with salt in the second plate. For the third, combine panko, regular breadcrumbs, dried parsley, black pepper, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. This layered breading system ensures each chicken cutlet gets a beautifully seasoned, thick coating that crisps up flawlessly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Cutlets

One at a time, dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess to avoid clumping. Then dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mix so the crumbs stick well all over. This triple-coating is the secret behind that unbeatable crunch that defines a great Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat your oil in a frying pan over medium heat, testing readiness by dropping in a few breadcrumbs; they should sizzle immediately. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the pan, frying each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on a wire rack to keep the crust crisp. Take your time cooking in batches, avoiding overcrowding to maintain the perfect texture on every piece.

Step 6: Assemble Your Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

Slice the French baguettes into 12 cm (5 inch) portions and cut them open lengthwise. Spread a generous layer of the reserved Caesar dressing inside each baguette, then add one crispy chicken cutlet. Top with a hearty scoop of the dressed romaine salad and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Close the sandwich and get ready to enjoy an irresistible combination of creamy, crunchy, and fresh flavors.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top while the sandwich is still hot adds an extra cheesy kick. For a hint of freshness, a wedge of lemon on the side can be squeezed over just before eating, brightening all the flavors wonderfully. Adding a few fresh cracked black pepper twists on top also amplifies the savory notes.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs beautifully with classic French fries or crispy sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal. A simple mixed green salad or crunchy coleslaw also complements the rich chicken and creamy dressing by adding a fresh, crisp contrast on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or casual get-together, serve the sandwiches open-faced on a large wooden board topped with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges for guests to customize. You can also cut each sandwich into smaller sliders for a fun finger-food option. Wrapping each sandwich in parchment paper tied with twine adds a charming touch for picnics or packed lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwiches, it’s best to store the chicken, bread, and salad components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The chicken will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, while the salad is best consumed within 1 to 2 days to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

For longer storage, the breaded fried chicken cutlets freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze the sandwich components separately and assemble fresh when ready to eat for optimal texture.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated chicken cutlets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to restore their crispiness without drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunch intact. Assemble the sandwich fresh after reheating the chicken for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?

Absolutely! If you don’t have thin cutlets, you can butterfly chicken breasts and pound them thin to mimic cutlet thickness. This ensures even cooking and maintains tenderness for your Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken as usual and bake on a wire rack at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden. While it won’t be quite as crunchy, it’s still delicious and a great option for a lighter meal.

How long does the Caesar dressing keep in the fridge?

The dressing can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stir well before using as it may thicken or separate slightly upon refrigeration.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, such as rice flour and gluten-free panko, to enjoy a gluten-free version that still delivers on crunch and flavor.

What bread works best for this sandwich?

A crusty baguette is ideal to hold all the juicy, flavorful fillings without getting soggy. However, ciabatta or a sturdy sandwich roll can also work well based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich brings together so many of life’s best things: crisp textures, tangy creamy dressing, fresh greens, and juicy chicken all layered into one unforgettable meal. Whether making it for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or sharing with friends, it’s bound to become a staple that everyone asks for again and again. So go ahead, get your ingredients ready, and dive into crafting this satisfying and flavorful sandwich—you won’t regret it!

Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 30 reviews

Author: Marina
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich combines the classic flavors of a Caesar salad with perfectly breaded and fried chicken cutlets, all nestled inside a fresh French baguette. The creamy homemade Caesar dressing enhances the crisp romaine, while the golden, crunchy chicken adds a satisfying texture contrast. Ideal for a hearty lunch or casual dinner, this sandwich balances savory, tangy, and crunchy elements to deliver a delicious and memorable meal.

Instructions

Prepare Caesar Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of sea salt until smooth and creamy. Reserve 4–5 tablespoons of this dressing to toss with the chopped romaine lettuce. Cover and refrigerate both the dressing and the lettuce separately.
Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Place chicken cutlets on a cutting board, gently pounding them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness if needed. Season both sides generously with sea salt and ground black pepper.
Set up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: first with flour, ½ tsp salt, and smoked paprika mixed; second with beaten eggs combined with ¼ tsp salt; third with panko crumbs, breadcrumbs, dried parsley, black pepper, sea salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated. Repeat with all cutlets.
Fry Chicken Cutlets: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Test temperature by dropping breadcrumbs in – they should sizzle. Fry chicken cutlets in batches, cooking 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Remove and drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil.
Assemble Sandwiches: Slice baguettes into approximately 12 cm (5 inch) portions and cut each lengthwise. Spread a layer of reserved Caesar dressing on the bottom half, place one crispy chicken cutlet on top, add a generous amount of the Caesar salad, and sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese. Close sandwiches and serve immediately, ideally with fries.

Notes

For even cooking, ensure chicken cutlets are pounded to uniform thickness.
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor in salad dressing and breading.
Do not overcrowd the frying pan; frying in batches ensures crispiness and even cooking.
Store leftover dressing separately and consume within 2 days for freshness.
You can substitute the French baguette with ciabatta or a sturdy sandwich roll if preferred.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American