Air Fryer Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich

Recreate Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich at home with your air fryer! Enjoy crispy, juicy chicken with the perfect kick of heat, topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a soft bun.

Craving the iconic Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich? Now you can recreate this fast-food favorite at home with your air fryer! Featuring crispy, golden breaded chicken bursting with bold spices, this sandwich packs the perfect heat in every bite. It’s topped with fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and creamy mayo, all nestled between soft, fluffy buns. Healthier than the drive-thru version and just as delicious, this recipe is ideal for satisfying your cravings without leaving the house.

If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Copycat Recipes, some of my favorites are Air Fryer Homemade Cinnamon Rolls (Cinnamon Copycat), Air Fryer Copycat Taco Bell Quesadilla, and, of course, everyone’s favorite, Air Fryer Copycat Tao Bell Crunchwrap Supreme.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer ensures your chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside.
• Healthier Option: Enjoy all the bold flavors of the Wendy’s classic with less oil and fewer calories.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the spice blend to make it as mild or as fiery as you like.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together faster than a trip to the drive-thru.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Recreate a fast-food favorite in the comfort of your kitchen with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients Needed

• Hot Sauce: Adding hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with a spicy kick, laying the foundation for the sandwich’s signature heat.
• Chicken Breasts: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced or pounded to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and mimic the classic Wendy’s patty.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the breading flour ensures the chicken achieves a crispy exterior when air-fried.
• Spices (Cayenne Pepper, Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper): This blend of herbs is key to replicating Wendy’s chicken sandwich’s distinctive spicy and savory flavor profile.
• Hamburger Buns: Choose soft, quality hamburger buns for the base of your sandwich, lightly toasted for extra texture and flavor.
• Mayonnaise: A spread of mayonnaise on the bun adds creaminess, balancing the chicken’s spice.
• Lettuce and Tomato: Fresh and tomato slices provide a cool, crisp contrast to the spicy chicken, rounding out the classic sandwich build.

How To Make Air Fryer Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Step One: In a small bowl, mix Frank’s Red Hot Sauce and water. Combine the flour, cayenne, salt, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a medium-sized bowl.

Step Two: Coat the chicken breast in the flour mixture, then into the hot sauce mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Use your hands to ensure that the flour mixture covers the chicken breast. Repeat until all of the chicken is coated.

Step Three: Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray, and then preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees F, with the air fryer setting for 3- 5 minutes. Add your chicken breast. Use cooking spray GENEROUSLY to coat the top of the chicken so the entire flour coating is coated. This will help your chicken crisp up. Set the timer for 7 minutes, then use a pair of tongs, flip the chicken, spray again, coating the flour mixture, and set the timer for another 7-10 minutes.

Step Four: Check the internal temperature of the chicken before removing it. The internal temperature needs to be 165 degrees F. Spread the mayonnaise on the bottom bun, then place the cooked chicken breast onto a hamburger bun, top with pickles, lettuce, and tomato.

Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich Recipe Tips

• Even Chicken Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and crispiness.
• Generous Coating: Use ample cooking spray on the flour coating to achieve a golden, crispy crust in the air fryer.
• Preheating Matters: Always preheat your air fryer for the best results in texture and cooking time.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce levels to match your preferred spice level.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a minute after cooking to help the coating set and stay crispy.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles to replicate the classic Wendy’s sandwich toppings perfectly.

Storing

• Storing: To store your Air Fryer Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich, wrap the chicken and sandwich components separately in plastic wrap or airtight containers. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days for the best freshness.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked chicken breast in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 3 months. For the best results, freeze the chicken separately from the bun and toppings.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken breast in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If reheating the entire sandwich, assemble the sandwich and air fry for 3-4 minutes to toast the bun and warm the filling.

What To Serve With Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich Recipe

To complement your Air Fryer Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich, serve it with classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh coleslaw for a satisfying crunch. A side of pickle spears or a creamy dip, such as ranch or blue cheese, can enhance the flavors and add an extra layer of indulgence. For a lighter option, a mixed green salad or seasoned potato wedges can balance out the spiciness of the sandwich while keeping your meal hearty and delicious.

Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute the chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender option. However, make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free flour and ensure your hot sauce and other seasonings are free from gluten. This way, you can still enjoy the spicy flavor without compromising on your dietary needs.

How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy? Coating the chicken thoroughly with flour and spraying it generously with cooking spray helps achieve that crispy, crunchy texture. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through cooking and spray it again for an even crispier finish.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time, bread it, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When ready, just air fry for the recommended time, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

What are some good toppings for this sandwich? In addition to pickles, lettuce, and tomato, you can top the sandwich with jalapeños for extra heat, or add a slice of cheese for extra creaminess. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!

Easy Easy Air Fryer Recipes

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Equipment Used

• Instant Vortex Air Fryer 4 in 1, Best Fries Ever, Roast, Bake, Reheat, 6 Qt, 1700W

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