Save
Nothing beats biting into a crispy dill chicken sandwich with its crunchy panko chicken, tangy dill mayo, and cool veggies piled onto a soft brioche bun. When my family needs a meal that feels like an instant mood-lifter, this is our go-to recipe for an unbeatable lunch or a crave-worthy weeknight dinner.
I still remember the first time my sister asked for seconds and begged me to make a double batch the next weekend. Now, it is a regular request for family picnics and movie nights because everyone wants a bite.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts boneless and skinless: Choose ones that are plump and even for best results
- All-purpose flour: Helps create the breading base look for unbleached for better flavor
- Salt and black pepper: Seasons each layer use freshly ground pepper for a bolder kick
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Add savory notes and depth try to find pure powders with no additives
- Dried dill: Infuses chicken with light herby punch use a reputable spice brand
- Large eggs and milk: The combo binds the breading together farm—fresh eggs and whole milk add richness
- Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese—style crumbs deliver that iconic crunch check for freshness
- Vegetable oil: For frying pick a neutral oil like canola or sunflower for best crispiness
- Brioche buns: Buttery and soft choose from your local bakery for the fluffiest texture
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the sauce real mayo makes all the difference
- Fresh dill: Adds brightness and freshness look for vibrant green leaves with strong aroma
- Lemon juice: Brings tang and balances flavors freshly squeezed is best
- Shredded lettuce: For fresh crunch and color rinse and spin dry for optimal taste
- Dill pickle slices: For classic tangy bite thicker cut pickles hold up best
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally so you have four thin pieces. Place the chicken between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about one half inch. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and stays juicy inside.
- Make the Breading Station:
- Place flour mix salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder and dried dill in a wide shallow dish. In a second bowl whisk eggs with milk until fully blended. Put panko breadcrumbs in a third dish. Having everything set up assembly—line style makes the breading easy and less messy.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Coat each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour pressing lightly to adhere. Next dip into the egg and milk mixture ensuring all sides get wet. Finally press into panko breadcrumbs patting gently to cover completely and set aside on a plate.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet so the bottom is coated by about one half inch. Heat the oil over medium—high until a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately. Fry each chicken piece for four to five minutes per side or until deep golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Dill Mayo:
- In a small bowl stir together mayonnaise freshly chopped dill and lemon juice. Taste and season with a pinch of salt if needed. This will be the zesty flavor boost for the sandwich.
- Toast the Buns:
- While the chicken rests lightly toast brioche buns. I like to do this in a dry skillet for about a minute per side it keeps them soft on the inside but with golden edges.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Slather both sides of each bun with some dill mayo. Layer on a handful of shredded lettuce then place a crispy chicken piece on top. Finish with a few slices of dill pickle and cover with the top bun.
- Serve Fresh:
- Enjoy the sandwich while it is warm for the ultimate crunchy juicy texture combo. If you want extra cheesy goodness add a slice of your favorite cheese before topping the sandwich.
My personal favorite is the fresh dill in the mayo. It lifts every bite and is a reminder of my grandma’s herb garden growing up where she’d clip herbs fresh for family sandwiches.
Storage Tips
To keep leftovers crispy store the fried chicken separate from the buns and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch. The dill mayo can be stored in a jar for up to a week in the refrigerator.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of panko use crushed cornflakes or plain breadcrumbs. Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter tangier spread. Whole wheat buns work in place of brioche for a nutty twist and any crisp lettuce variety such as romaine or iceberg will do just fine.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy dill chicken sandwich with seasoned fries a tangy vinegar slaw or homemade potato chips. For a fresh meal try alongside a summer tomato and cucumber salad. Pickled red onions on top add a burst of color and flavor.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chicken sandwiches have long been a favorite in American casual dining but adding dill and pickles gives a familiar yet flavorful twist. Inspired by the classic chicken sandwich shop fare this version highlights bright herbaceous flavors that remind me of summer backyard gatherings and deli lunches.
Seasonal Adaptations
Top with garden tomatoes during peak season. Try fresh arugula or baby spinach instead of lettuce for a peppery touch. Add a layer of thinly sliced radishes for extra crunch in spring.
Success Stories
My neighbor made a batch for her book club and everyone demanded the recipe. It is also a guaranteed hit at birthday picnics and even picky eaters come back for seconds. This sandwich gets compliments for the crunch and the zippy mayo.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can prepare the breaded uncooked chicken ahead freeze in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag. When ready fry straight from frozen just increase cooking time slightly. This makes it easy to whip up a quick meal on busy days.
This crispy dill chicken sandwich recipe is sure to become a family favorite and a new staple in your home. Each bite is a delicious balance of crunch and zesty, herby flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you achieve a crispy coating on the chicken?
Dredge the chicken in flour, dip in an egg-milk mixture, and finish with panko breadcrumbs. Fry until golden for best crunch.
- → What type of buns work best for this sandwich?
Brioche buns offer a soft, buttery texture that pairs well with crispy fried chicken and tangy toppings.
- → Can you make the dill mayo in advance?
Yes, prepare the dill mayo ahead and refrigerate. Flavors meld, intensifying the tangy, herbal notes.
- → Is there a lighter sauce alternative?
Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to create a tangier, lighter sauce that complements the fried chicken.
- → What sides go well with this sandwich?
Pair with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a garden salad for a complete and balanced meal.