Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Ingredients

• 1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup hot sauce
• 2 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 brioche buns
• ½ cup dill pickle slices
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)

Steps

1. Pound chicken thighs to an even 1/2-inch thickness. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and 1/4 cup hot sauce. Add chicken, ensuring it's fully submerged, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
5. Fry chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove and place on a wire rack to drain.
6. Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread mayonnaise on the buns if desired, then place a fried chicken thigh on each.
7. Top with dill pickle slices and an extra drizzle of hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately.