This Copycat A&W Style Chubby Chicken Sandwich Recipe is everything you love about the original—crispy, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or weekend indulgence, this homemade version will quickly become a family favorite!
If you’ve ever bitten into the crispy, juicy perfection of A&W’s famous Chubby Chicken Sandwich, you know just how irresistible it is.
This copycat A&W Chubby Chicken Sandwich recipe brings that same restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen!
With tender marinated chicken, a golden crispy coating, and cool, creamy mayo on a soft bun, it’s the ultimate comfort food you can make anytime.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces.
- Tastes just like the A&W original — but fresher!
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients.
- Crispy outside, juicy inside every single time.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or game day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless chicken breasts – Tender, juicy base of the sandwich.
- Buttermilk – Keeps the chicken moist and adds tangy flavor.
- Flour and cornstarch – For that extra-crispy coating.
- Paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper – Simple seasonings for flavor.
- Eggs – Helps the breading stick perfectly.
- Mayonnaise and lettuce – Classic A&W toppings.
- Soft hamburger buns – Lightly toasted for the best texture.
How to Make Copycat A&W Chubby Chicken Sandwich
Marinate the Chicken: Soak the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least an hour (or overnight for best results).
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
Bread the Chicken: Dip each marinated chicken breast into beaten eggs, then coat generously with the flour mixture.
Fry or Air Fry: Fry until golden and crispy (or use the air fryer for a lighter version).
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayo on both sides of the toasted bun, add lettuce, and top with the crispy chicken breast.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spicy twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
- Healthier option: Air fry the chicken at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.
- Add cheese: A slice of cheddar or Swiss makes it even more indulgent.
- Make ahead: Marinate chicken the night before for quicker prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade A&W Chubby Chicken Sandwich with fries, onion rings, or coleslaw for the full fast-food experience. Don’t forget a frosty root beer on the side!
Storing and Reheating
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Thighs stay even juicier and are great for this recipe.
Can I bake it instead of frying? Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden.
What makes this taste like A&W’s version? The combination of buttermilk marinade and seasoned coating gives it that signature A&W flavor.
More Copycat A&W Recipes
- A&W Spicy Chipotle Dipping Sauce Copycat Recipe
- A&W Copycat BBQ Sauce
- A&W Teen Burger (Copycat) Recipe
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Copycat A&W Style Chubby Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts ,
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour ,
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 4 leaves lettuce
- 4 soft hamburger buns
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to even thickness.
- Soak the 2 boneless chicken breasts in 1 cup buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor and tenderness).
- In a shallow bowl, mix the 1 cup all-purpose flour , ¼ cup cornstarch , 1 teaspoon paprika , g½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the 2 large eggs
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off.
- Dip each piece in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked to 165°F internally.
- Lightly toast the 4 soft hamburger buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.
- Spread ¼ cup mayonnaise on each bun, then add 4 leaves lettuce and the crispy chicken breast.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade A&W Chubby Chicken Sandwich!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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