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Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich

Name: Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 ounces chicken breast; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 4 slices sourdough bread; 1/4 red onion (sliced); 1 1/2 cup iceberg lettuce (chopped); kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: March 3, 2022

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Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich — The Curried Chicken Sandwich is a light, healthy classic chicken sandwich. This recipe can be whipped up in less than 10 minutes and is filled with protein, making it the perfect post-workout meal or quick lunch! You should try it out tonight!

Your tastebuds will be delighted with this air fryer curried chicken sandwich. This recipe has less than 500 calories and packs an impressive 20 grams of protein for lunch or dinner. You’ll need only 15 minutes to make it from start to finish, and you’ll love how fast it cooks without any added fat (unless you want to add some).

The curry powder gives the chicken a robust flavor, while adding turmeric boosts its antioxidant power even more! Add crunchy coleslaw or lettuce and red onions for some great texture!

I love a great Air Fryer Sandwich, and this one does not disappoint!

Suppose you love sandwiches as much as mine. In that case, I will encourage you to try some of my favorite Air Fryer Sandwich Recipes, such as AIR FRYER SAUSAGE, PEPPERS, AND ONIONS, AIR FRYER CRAB CAKE SANDWICHES, AIR FRYER SHRIMP PO’BOY, and FROZEN CHICKEN PATTIES IN THE AIR FRYER.

What Is Curry?

Every culture has a different way of making curry, but they all have one thing in common: herbs and spices. Curry is usually a blend of flavors that include ginger, garlic, turmeric, coriander, cumin, or fenugreek.

What you’ll find in your curry depends on where it comes from. For example, it may be made in India with coconut milk and tamarind paste, while Thai curries are often sour rather than spicy. The best part about curry is that there’s no wrong way to do it- add what you like!

Curried Chicken

Curried chicken is a delicious Indian dish. It’s made with turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder. It makes for a great and easy air fryer dinner (pair with a plate of Instant Pot Jasmine Rice) or a side salad).

Or today’s version is a Curried Chicken Sandwich, perfect in the air fryer!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich

Dive into the vibrant world of flavors with this Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich recipe. This culinary delight marries the juicy tenderness of chicken with the warm, aromatic curry spices. Perfect for those seeking to elevate their sandwich game, this recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic chicken sandwich. It showcases how the air fryer can transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with taste.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Chicken Breast: Lean and versatile, the chicken breast serves as an ideal canvas for curry spices’ rich and complex flavors, ensuring each bite is both moist and flavorful.
Curry Powder: A blend of spices including turmeric, coriander, cumin, and others, curry powder infuses the chicken with its signature warm, slightly spicy flavor, making the sandwich anything but ordinary.
Garlic Powder or Garlic: Minced garlic adds a spicy kick to the marinade, complementing the curry’s spice palette and adding layers of flavor to the chicken.
Smoked Paprika: Adds some spice to the sandwich.
Sourdough Bread or Ciabatta Rolls: Sturdy and slightly chewy, ciabatta rolls are the perfect vehicle for the curried chicken, capable of holding up to the juiciness without becoming soggy.
Red Onions: For added flavor and texture.
Lettuce: Fresh lettuce adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced chicken, introducing a textural balance to the sandwich.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper enhance the chicken’s natural flavors and the curry’s aromatic qualities.

How To Make Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich

Making an Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich is a delightful way to bring the bold flavors of curry into a quick and easy meal. Here’s how to create this flavorful sandwich:

Cut your chicken breast in half the vertical. So you have two thin slices of the breast.

Coat the top of each breast in curry powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook in the air fryer for 15 minutes at 360 degrees or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Allow the chicken to rest for five minutes, then place on a slice of bread with a handful of lettuce and red onion.

Serve with tzatziki sauce or your favorite condiments, and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

The Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich is a versatile recipe that can be adapted in various delicious ways to suit your taste preferences or to enjoy a new twist on the original. Here are some creative variations to inspire your next culinary adventure:

Mango Chutney Curried Chicken Sandwich: Add a sweet and tangy element by spreading mango chutney on the ciabatta rolls before assembling the sandwich. The fruity flavor of the chutney complements the curry spices beautifully.
Spicy Curried Chicken with Cucumber Raita: Add extra chili powder or fresh sliced chilies to the curry marinade for those who love more heat. Balance the spice with a cooling cucumber raita spread on the bread, made from grated cucumber mixed into yogurt with a hint of mint.
Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich: After cooking, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix with mayonnaise, curry powder, raisins, and chopped almonds. Serve this curried chicken salad cold on toasted ciabatta with lettuce leaves.
Vegan Curried “Chicken” Sandwich: Replace the chicken breast with a plant-based chicken alternative or extra firm tofu sliced and marinated in the same curry mixture. Follow the rest of the recipe as directed, using vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt for the marinade.
Curried Chicken Wrap: Swap the ciabatta rolls for large flour tortillas. After air frying, slice the curried chicken and wrap it up with lettuce, tomato, and thinly sliced red onion for a portable and tidy sandwich option.
Apple Slaw Curried Chicken Sandwich: Add a crunchy and refreshing element by topping the chicken with a quick apple slaw made from julienned apples, carrots, and a little lemon juice mixed with mayonnaise.
Curried Chicken with Avocado Spread: Mash ripe avocado with a squeeze of lime and spread it on the ciabatta rolls as a creamy, healthy fat component that pairs well with the spices in the curry.
Curried Chicken Naan Sandwich: Use naan bread instead of ciabatta for an Indian-inspired twist. The soft, chewy texture of the naan makes a delightful base for the curried chicken and toppings.
Pineapple Curried Chicken Sandwich: Introduce a tropical flair by adding a slice of grilled pineapple atop the chicken. Its sweetness and slight acidity cut through the richness of the curry and mascarpone beautifully.
Curried Chicken and Hummus Sandwich: Spread a generous layer of hummus on the bread before adding the curried chicken. The earthiness of the hummus adds depth and complements the curry flavors in the chicken.

Each of these variations showcases the flexibility of the Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich recipe, allowing you to explore a wide range of flavors and textures. Whether you stick closely to the original or venture into new culinary territory, the result is sure to be deliciously satisfying.

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich involves more than just following a recipe—it’s about mastering the nuances of flavor, texture, and technique. Here are some pro tips to elevate your curried chicken sandwich to the next level:

Optimal Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or ideally overnight, in the refrigerator. The longer marination time helps the chicken absorb the curry flavors deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meat.
Thickness Matters: If your chicken breast is thick, consider pounding it to an even thickness. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy.
Balancing Flavors: Curry powder’s intensity can vary by brand. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to taste. The goal is to achieve a balance of spice, tanginess from the lemon, and creaminess from the yogurt.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear on the meat, locking in flavors.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure there’s enough space for air circulation. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Internal Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Not only does this guarantee that the chicken is cooked through, but it also prevents overcooking.
Rest Before Slicing: Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken more tender and flavorful when added to your sandwich.
Customize Your Toppings: While lettuce and tomato are classic, don’t hesitate to add your personal touch with toppings like avocado slices, cucumber, or a tangy slaw to complement the curried chicken.
Sauce Creativity: Enhance the mayonnaise with additional flavors to match the curry theme. Mixing in some mango chutney, cilantro, or extra curry powder can add an extra layer of taste to your sandwich.
Bread Choices: While ciabatta rolls are a great option, feel free to experiment with other types of bread like naan, pita, or artisan rolls for a different texture and flavor experience.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the sandwich with a side of light salad or crispy air-fried vegetables to balance the richness of the curried chicken.

By following these pro tips, you’ll not only master the art of making an Air Fryer Curried Chicken Sandwich but also have the confidence to experiment with flavors and ingredients, making every sandwich a unique culinary creation.

Faq’s

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this recipe? Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to breast meat. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful but may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.

How can I ensure my chicken doesn’t come out dry? Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but also helps to keep it moist during cooking.

What if I don’t have curry powder? Can I make my own? You can make a simple homemade curry powder by mixing ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and a bit of chili powder. Adjust the proportions based on your taste preferences for a custom blend.

Can I prepare the curried chicken in advance? Absolutely! The chicken can be marinated ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. You can also cook the chicken in advance and reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes before assembling your sandwich.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to the yogurt marinade? For a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk yogurt or a few tablespoons of coconut milk as a substitute. These alternatives will still tenderize the chicken and add a slight sweetness that complements the curry flavors.

How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, though several hours or overnight will deepen the flavors even more. If using a dairy-free alternative, shorter marination times are recommended to prevent the texture of the chicken from becoming too soft.

Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich? Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like cucumber, spinach, or red onion for extra crunch and flavor. Avocado slices can also add creaminess and richness to the sandwich.

What sides pair well with a curried chicken sandwich? Light and fresh sides complement the flavors of the sandwich well. Consider serving with a simple salad, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks. For something heartier, sweet potato fries or a small serving of basmati rice can round out the meal.

How can I make the sandwich spicier? Increase the heat by adding more chili powder to your curry powder blend, including slices of fresh jalapeño in the sandwich, or using a spicy mayonnaise as a condiment.

Can I cook more than one chicken breast in the air fryer at a time? Yes, as long as there is enough space for air to circulate around the chicken pieces. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

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