Name: Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Spicy Coleslaw:; 1 tbsp garlic clove; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp hot pepper sauce; 4 cups cabbage; ½ cup pickle; ¼ cup Pickle Juice; For Fried Chicken:; 2 cups flour; 1 tbsp black pepper; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 chicken breasts; Vegetable Oil; 4 sandwich rolls; 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Experience the ultimate homemade chicken sandwich with this copycat recipe. Combining crispy, golden fried chicken with a vibrant, tangy spicy coleslaw on a buttered, toasted roll, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether for a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings.

son of a gun fried chicken sandwich recipe

Photos of Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to take note of a few ingredients that may not be commonly found in every pantry. Buttermilk, for instance, is essential for achieving that tender, juicy chicken, while hot pepper sauce adds a spicy kick to the coleslaw. Make sure to grab these items during your supermarket run to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients for Copycat Son of a Gun Chicken Sandwich

Garlic clove: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the spicy coleslaw.

Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the coleslaw.

Hot pepper sauce: Brings heat and tanginess to the coleslaw.

Cabbage: The crunchy, fresh element of the coleslaw.

Pickle: Adds a zesty crunch to the coleslaw.

Pickle juice: Enhances the coleslaw with its tangy flavor.

Flour: Used to coat the chicken for frying.

Black pepper: Seasons the flour mixture for the chicken.

Kosher salt: Adds flavor to the flour mixture and the fried chicken.

Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the flour adhere.

Chicken breasts: The main protein in the sandwich.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.

Sandwich rolls: The base and top of the sandwich.

Unsalted butter: Used to toast the sandwich rolls.

One reader, Kirk Otis says:

This copycat Son of a Gun chicken sandwich recipe is fantastic! The spicy coleslaw adds a perfect kick, and the fried chicken is crispy and flavorful. The buttered rolls bring it all together. A must-try for any sandwich lover!

Kirk Otis

Essential Techniques for Making a Delicious Chicken Sandwich

How to butterfly chicken: Slice the chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces, ensuring even cooking. How to dredge chicken: Coat the chicken in flour mixture after dipping in buttermilk, ensuring an even layer for frying. How to heat oil to 350 degrees F: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, ensuring it reaches 350 degrees F for proper frying. How to fry chicken: Cook the chicken in hot oil for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. How to brown buns on a griddle: Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and cook them on a griddle until golden brown.

How To Make Son of A Gun Fried Chicken Sandwich

Crispy fried chicken is the heart of this chicken sandwich from Son of a Gun with layers of sweet, spicy, and sour flavors from pickles and pepper sauce.

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Spicy Coleslaw:

1tbspgarlic clove
½cupmayonnaise
1tbsphot pepper sauceLouisiana-style
4cupscabbagethinly sliced
½cupPickle
¼cuppickle juice

For Fried Chicken:

2cupsflourall-purpose
1tbspblack peppercoarse ground
½tspkosher salt
1cupbuttermilk
2chicken breasts
vegetable oilfor frying
4sandwich rolls
2tbspunsalted butter

Instructions

Spicy Coleslaw:

Mix together the garlic, mayonnaise, hot pepper sauce, cabbage, pickles, and pickle juice in a large bowl.
Put in the refrigerator to chill.

Fried Chicken:

Add the flour, pepper, and salt in a shallow bowl.
Butterfly the chicken and cut into 4 thinly cut pieces.
Add the buttermilk to a small bowl and dip the first piece of chicken into a bowl. Let the excess buttermilk drip off.
Dredge into the flour mixture and shake the excess off.
Repeat the process, then lay gently onto a cookie sheet and repeat with 3 remaining pieces.
Add the vegetable oil to your cast-iron skillet until it is about a ½-inch high.
Heat on medium until the oil is 350 degrees F and fry the chicken for 3 minutes on each side.
Rest on wire rack and sprinkle salt to taste on top of the fried chicken pieces.
Cut the rolls in half and spread butter on the cut sides.
On a griddle brown the buns buttered side down.
Assemble the bottom of the bun, then the chicken, then a cup of the coleslaw before topping with the top of the bun.

Nutrition

Calories: 737.58kcal
Fat: 36.03g
Saturated Fat: 8.08g
Trans Fat: 0.27g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 15.59g
Carbohydrates: 87.70g
Fiber: 5.72g
Sugar: 7.04g
Protein: 15.66g
Cholesterol: 28.98mg
Sodium: 738.03mg
Calcium: 183.67mg
Potassium: 410.46mg
Iron: 3.27mg
Vitamin A: 62.34µg
Vitamin C: 36.49mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Chicken Sandwich

To achieve an extra crispy texture on the fried chicken, double-dip the chicken pieces by repeating the buttermilk and flour mixture steps. This creates a thicker coating that crisps up beautifully when fried.

Time-Saving Tips for Making copycat son of a gun chicken sandwich recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the cabbage and garlic the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-shredded cabbage: Opt for pre-shredded cabbage to cut down on prep time for the coleslaw.

Double-dip chicken: To ensure a crispy coating, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour mixture.

Preheat oil: Start heating the vegetable oil while you prepare the chicken to save time.

Use a food processor: Quickly mix the coleslaw ingredients using a food processor for even faster prep.

Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe

garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove. It provides a similar flavor and is convenient.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a healthier alternative.
hot pepper sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha provides a similar heat level and a bit of sweetness, enhancing the spicy profile.
cabbage - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used for a different texture and added nutrients, though it will be slightly more bitter.
pickle - Substitute with cucumber: Fresh cucumber slices can mimic the crunch and freshness of pickles, though they lack the tanginess.
pickle juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides acidity and tang, similar to pickle juice, though it will have a citrus note.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can create a crispier coating for fried chicken, though it may be lighter in texture.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, often described as more earthy.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar level of salinity.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity and thickness of buttermilk.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.
sandwich rolls - Substitute with brioche buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, enhancing the overall flavor of the sandwich.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a healthier fat option and a different flavor profile, though it will not have the same richness as butter.

How to Beautifully Present This Chicken Sandwich

Use artisanal sandwich rolls: Select high-quality sandwich rolls with a golden crust and soft interior to elevate the base of your dish.
Perfectly fried chicken: Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated and fried to a crispy, golden brown. The chicken should be juicy inside with a crunchy exterior.
Spicy coleslaw presentation: Serve the spicy coleslaw in a small, elegant side dish or ramekin to maintain its crispness and vibrant color until the last moment.
Butter-toasted buns: Toast the sandwich rolls on a griddle with unsalted butter until they are perfectly golden and slightly crispy on the inside, adding a rich flavor and texture.
Layering technique: Place the fried chicken on the bottom half of the sandwich roll, ensuring it is centered and stable. Add a generous portion of spicy coleslaw on top of the chicken for a balanced bite.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley on top of the coleslaw for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a side of pickles: Include a small side of pickles to complement the flavors of the sandwich and add an extra crunch.
Use a wooden board: Present the sandwich on a rustic wooden board for a sophisticated yet approachable look. This adds a touch of elegance and highlights the artisanal quality of the dish.
Drizzle with hot pepper sauce: Lightly drizzle hot pepper sauce over the top bun for an extra kick of heat and a visually appealing finish.
Pair with a craft beverage: Recommend pairing the sandwich with a craft beer or a refreshing lemonade to enhance the dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Chicken Sandwich

Large bowl: Used for mixing the ingredients for the spicy coleslaw.
Knife: Essential for mincing the garlic and slicing the cabbage and pickles.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the vegetables and chicken.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the spicy coleslaw until it's ready to be used.
Shallow bowl: Ideal for mixing the flour, pepper, and salt for dredging the chicken.
Small bowl: Used to hold the buttermilk for dipping the chicken pieces.
Cast-iron skillet: Perfect for frying the chicken to achieve a crispy texture.
Thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the correct temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit for frying.
Wire rack: Allows the fried chicken to rest and drain excess oil while maintaining its crispiness.
Griddle: Used for browning the buttered sides of the sandwich rolls.
Spatula: Handy for flipping the chicken in the skillet and the rolls on the griddle.
Cookie sheet: Provides a surface to lay the dredged chicken pieces before frying.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like mayonnaise, hot pepper sauce, and pickle juice.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken pieces while frying and assembling the sandwich.

Storing and Freezing Tips for copycat son of a gun chicken sandwich recipe

To store the coleslaw, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you have leftover fried chicken, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
To freeze the fried chicken, place the cooled pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the frozen chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
It's not recommended to freeze the assembled sandwiches or the coleslaw, as the texture and quality may deteriorate. Instead, store and freeze the components separately and assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best results.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Sandwich

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the chicken sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the bun is crispy. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents the bun from getting soggy.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat your leftover chicken sandwich in just a few minutes. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the bun is crispy. This method is quick and easy, and it helps to restore the crispiness of the fried chicken.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can use your microwave. Place the chicken sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-60 seconds or until the chicken is heated through. To prevent the bun from getting soggy, you can wrap the sandwich in a damp paper towel before microwaving. This method is not ideal for restoring the crispiness of the fried chicken, but it is a quick and convenient option.
If you want to reheat your chicken sandwich on the stovetop, you can use a skillet or griddle. Preheat the skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Place the sandwich in the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the chicken is heated through and the bun is crispy. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the fried chicken and gives the bun a nice toasty texture.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your leftover chicken sandwich. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sandwich on the wire rack. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the bun is crispy. This method is similar to using an oven, but it is quicker and more energy-efficient.

Interesting Trivia About Chicken Sandwiches

A fun fact about this chicken sandwich recipe is that the buttermilk used in the fried chicken marinade helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful.

Is Making This Chicken Sandwich at Home Cost-Effective?

This recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like cabbage, mayonnaise, chicken breasts, and sandwich rolls are affordable and readily available. The use of pickle juice and hot pepper sauce adds flavor without significantly increasing costs. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Chicken Sandwich Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This copycat Son of a Gun chicken sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

Deep-fried chicken: Although chicken breast is a lean protein source, deep-frying adds significant amounts of oil and calories to the dish.
Refined flour: The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives.
High-fat condiments: The spicy coleslaw contains mayonnaise, which is high in saturated fats.
Butter on the buns: Brushing the buns with butter adds extra saturated fat to the sandwich.

However, the inclusion of cabbage in the coleslaw does provide some beneficial nutrients and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider these adjustments:

Opt for a healthier cooking method for the chicken, such as grilling, baking, or air frying, to reduce the amount of oil used
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole-wheat flour to increase the fiber content
Use a light or olive oil-based mayonnaise in the coleslaw to reduce the saturated fat content
Brush the buns with a small amount of olive oil instead of butter
Add more vegetables to the coleslaw, such as carrots or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile of the dish
Serve the sandwich with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Chicken Sandwich Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, combining crispy fried chicken with a tangy, spicy coleslaw. The use of buttermilk ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the double dredging in seasoned flour provides a satisfying crunch. The spicy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the fried chicken. Toasting the buttered rolls enhances the overall experience, adding a subtle buttery flavor and a pleasant crunch. This sandwich is a well-rounded, flavorful dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet Potato Fries: Imagine the crispy, golden exterior of sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon and a touch of sea salt. These fries are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy crunch of the fried chicken sandwich.

Avocado Corn Salad: Avocado Corn Salad: Picture a vibrant mix of avocado, corn, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. This refreshing salad brings a burst of color and a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the buttermilk-fried chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Envision Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. These crispy, cheesy sprouts add a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the spicy coleslaw in the sandwich.

Watermelon Feta Salad: Watermelon Feta Salad: Think of juicy watermelon cubes mingling with crumbled feta cheese and fresh mint leaves. This salad is a refreshing palate cleanser, offering a sweet and salty contrast that enhances the flavors of the chicken sandwich.

Buttermilk Biscuits: Buttermilk Biscuits: Imagine warm, flaky biscuits straight from the oven, with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These biscuits are a comforting side that echoes the buttermilk theme of the fried chicken, making for a harmonious meal.

Similar Chicken Sandwich Recipes to Try

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich: Turn up the heat with this fiery chicken sandwich! Crispy, spicy, and perfectly balanced with a cool coleslaw topping. A true Southern delight that will leave your taste buds tingling.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap: Wrap up your meal with a tangy and spicy Buffalo chicken wrap. Packed with crunchy lettuce, creamy ranch dressing, and a kick of hot sauce, it's a handheld feast.

Chicken Katsu Sandwich: Experience a Japanese twist with this Chicken Katsu Sandwich. Crispy panko-breaded chicken, tangy tonkatsu sauce, and fresh cabbage slaw all nestled in a soft bun.

Southern Fried Chicken Biscuit: Indulge in a Southern classic with a fried chicken biscuit. Flaky buttermilk biscuits sandwiching golden, crispy chicken, and a dollop of honey butter for that perfect sweet and savory bite.

Chicken Caesar Sandwich: Elevate your sandwich game with a Chicken Caesar Sandwich. Grilled chicken breast, crisp romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese all come together in a toasted roll.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a savory filling using a blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of Parmesan cheese for a rich, umami flavor. Stuff each mushroom cap generously and bake until golden brown. The result is a bite-sized delight that's creamy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible.

Shrimp Cocktail: For a classic yet sophisticated starter, consider serving a shrimp cocktail. Begin by poaching large, succulent shrimp in a flavorful broth infused with lemon and bay leaves. Chill the shrimp thoroughly before arranging them around a bowl of tangy cocktail sauce. The sauce, made with ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, provides a zesty contrast to the sweet, tender shrimp. This elegant appetizer is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes rich chocolate ganache with every bite. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a luxurious chocolate experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense flavors. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness to this indulgent dessert.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a tangy and sweet lemon meringue pie. The crisp pie crust holds a luscious lemon curd filling that is both tart and creamy. Topped with a fluffy meringue that is lightly browned to perfection, this dessert offers a delightful contrast of textures. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls for an extra zing.

Why trust this Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe:

This recipe replicates the beloved Son of a Gun chicken sandwich with precision. The spicy coleslaw adds a tangy kick, perfectly complementing the crispy fried chicken. Using buttermilk ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the pickle juice in the coleslaw provides an extra layer of flavor. The sandwich rolls are toasted to perfection, adding a delightful crunch. Trust this recipe for its attention to detail and authentic taste, delivering a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Excited to try out this Copycat Son of A Gun Chicken Sandwich Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How spicy is the coleslaw in this recipe?

The coleslaw has a nice kick to it because of the hot pepper sauce, but it's not overwhelmingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, you can always reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and might even be juicier. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs can be a bit thicker.

What type of sandwich rolls should I use?

You can use any type of sandwich rolls you like, but I recommend something sturdy like brioche or ciabatta. They hold up well to the juicy chicken and coleslaw.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

You can use a kitchen thermometer to check if the oil is at 350 degrees F. If you don't have one, you can drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown in about a minute, the oil is ready.

Can I make the coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the coleslaw a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator, and it will be even more flavorful as the ingredients meld together.