Copycat Fried Chicken Sandwich

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, hot sauce, and 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix. (5 minutes)

Cut diagonal slits into the thick ends of the chicken breasts. (2 minutes)

Toss the chicken breasts into the buttermilk marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Transfer the bowl to the refrigerator and marinate for 2 to 4 hours. (5 minutes)

While the chicken marinates, prepare the breading. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix. (5 minutes)

In another bowl, prepare the egg wash by whisking together the egg, buttermilk, and milk until combined. (3 minutes)

Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Use a fork to handle the chicken. (2 minutes)

Dip each chicken breast into the breading, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Shake off any excess. (3 minutes)

Dip the breaded chicken breast into the egg wash, saturating the surface. (2 minutes)

Return the chicken breast to the breading and coat again, shaking off any excess. Repeat this double breading process once more for each chicken breast. (5 minutes)

Place the double-breaded chicken breasts on a wire rack to dry for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the breading adhere and become extra crispy. (15 minutes)

Heat canola oil in a deep-fryer or large pot to a temperature between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy. (10 minutes)

Carefully lower the chicken breasts into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. (2 minutes)

Fry the chicken breasts until they are golden brown, crispy, and no longer pink in the centers, approximately 4 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. (5 minutes)

Transfer the fried chicken breasts to a plate lined with crinkled aluminum foil. This helps prevent the bottoms from becoming soggy. (2 minutes)

Spread mayonnaise over the toasted and buttered hamburger bun halves. (2 minutes)

Stuff each bun with dill pickle slices and a crispy fried chicken breast. Serve immediately and enjoy! (2 minutes)