Save This pickle-brined fried chicken grilled cheese sandwich transforms two comfort food classics into one magnificent creation. The tangy pickle brine tenderizes the chicken while adding incredible flavor, and when paired with melty cheese between crispy buttered bread, it creates a sandwich experience that's absolutely unforgettable.
I first created this sandwich during a weekend cookout when I couldn't decide between serving fried chicken or grilled cheese. My solution was to combine them, and it's been requested at every family gathering since. The pickle brine was my grandmother's secret for tender chicken, and I've never looked back.
Ingredients
- For the Pickle-Brined Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts The lean meat becomes incredibly tender after brining in pickle juice
- Dill pickle juice: The secret ingredient that tenderizes chicken while infusing tangy flavor throughout
- Hot sauce: Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming heat choose your favorite variety
- For Breading: All purpose flour Creates the perfect crispy coating look for unbleached for best flavor
- Garlic powder: Provides savory depth to the breading without harsh raw garlic notes
- Paprika: Adds beautiful color and mild smoky flavor sweet Hungarian works beautifully
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors
- Egg: Acts as the perfect binder to help breading adhere to the chicken
- Milk: Thins the egg slightly for better coating coverage whole milk works best
- For Frying: Vegetable oil Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point peanut oil also works wonderfully
- For the Sandwiches: Sourdough or country bread The sturdy structure holds up to the hearty filling while providing great flavor
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the perfect balance of flavor and meltability
- Unsalted butter: Creates that perfect golden crust on your sandwich use European style for extra richness
- Dill pickles: Optional but highly recommended for extra crunch and tang
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/2 inch thickness. This ensures quick and even cooking while tenderizing the meat. Slice each breast in half to create four perfectly sized cutlets that will fit nicely on your sandwich.
- Marinate in Pickle Brine:
- Combine chicken with pickle juice and hot sauce in a bowl or zip top bag. Make sure each piece is fully submerged in the brine. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor penetration. The acid in the pickle juice breaks down proteins making the chicken incredibly tender.
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk egg with milk until completely combined. This two bowl setup creates an assembly line for efficient breading. The seasoned flour provides flavor while the egg mixture ensures the coating adheres properly.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Pat chicken pieces completely dry to help breading stick better. Dredge each piece in flour mixture first, then into egg wash, then back into flour for a second coat. Press the flour gently to ensure it adheres well. This double dredging creates an extra crispy exterior that stays crunchy even when sandwiched between cheese.
- Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Heat oil to 350°F in a large skillet. Carefully place breaded chicken into hot oil and fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. The oil should bubble actively but not smoke. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding which would lower oil temperature and create soggy chicken.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Butter one side of each bread slice with softened butter, spreading it evenly to the edges. Place four slices butter side down on your work surface. Layer each with cheese, fried chicken, pickles if using, another slice of cheese, and top with remaining bread butter side up. The cheese on both sides acts as glue to hold everything together.
- Grill to Melty Perfection:
- Cook sandwiches in a clean skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure good contact with the pan. The bread should turn golden brown and the cheese should melt completely. Lower heat if browning too quickly before cheese melts.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let sandwiches rest for 1 minute before slicing diagonally. This allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn't all ooze out immediately. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Save The pickle brine is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its power years ago when my grandmother shared her secret for tender chicken. She always kept pickle juice after finishing a jar, specifically for marinating chicken. The difference in texture is remarkable even with just an hour of brining, though I often prepare the chicken the night before for maximum flavor infusion.
Storage Tips
These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately after cooking while the bread is crisp and the cheese is melty. However, if you need to prepare components ahead of time, the fried chicken can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness before assembling your sandwich. The assembled uncooked sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before grilling.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have pickle juice on hand, you can create a similar brine using 1 cup of water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 1 teaspoon of salt. While not identical, it will provide similar tenderizing effects. For a gluten free option, substitute the all purpose flour with your favorite gluten free flour blend and ensure you're using gluten free bread. Dairy free cheese alternatives can work well, though they may not melt quite as beautifully as traditional cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Consider serving with a tangy vinegar based coleslaw that will complement the richness of the sandwich. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent meal, crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries make excellent companions. A dill pickle spear on the side reinforces the pickle flavor profile throughout the meal.
Make It Your Own
This sandwich welcomes customization to suit your preferences. Add a layer of caramelized onions for sweetness, crispy bacon for extra indulgence, or sliced tomato for freshness. Spread the inside of the bread with mayonnaise, mustard, or barbecue sauce before grilling. Try different cheese combinations like provolone with mozzarella or pepper jack for heat. The pickle brined chicken also works beautifully on its own as chicken tenders served with dipping sauces.
Save This sandwich is the ultimate comfort food mashup. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness.
Recipe FAQs
- → How does pickle brine affect the chicken?
Pickle brine infuses the chicken with salty, tangy flavors while tenderizing it for a juicy, flavorful bite.
- → Can I use a different cheese besides cheddar?
Yes, Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack melt beautifully and add unique flavor to the sandwich.
- → Is marinating the chicken necessary?
Marinating is key for maximum flavor and tenderness, but a shorter marinate (30 minutes) will still enhance taste.
- → Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Baking is possible. Use high heat and a wire rack for crispiness, though frying yields the crispiest texture.
- → What sides pair well with this sandwich?
Coleslaw, pickles, chips, or a fresh salad provide a refreshing complement to the rich, savory sandwich.
- → Are there recommended bread types?
Sourdough or country-style bread works best for sturdy texture and flavor, but any sandwich bread can be used.