Fried Chicken Croissant with Honey Dijon (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Sandwich

01 - 2 large croissants, sliced in half
02 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
03 - 2 leaves butter lettuce
04 - 2 slices tomato

→ For the Breading

05 - ½ cup all-purpose flour
06 - ½ cup buttermilk
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
09 - ½ teaspoon salt
10 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon paprika
12 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
13 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
14 - ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

→ For the Sauce

15 - ¼ cup mayonnaise
16 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
17 - 1 teaspoon honey

# Instructions:

01 - If needed, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) for even cooking
02 - In one bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. In a second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs
03 - Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere
04 - In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering
05 - Carefully add the breaded chicken to the hot oil and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C)
06 - Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil
07 - In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined
08 - Lightly toast the croissant halves in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes for extra texture
09 - Spread the sauce on the bottom half of each croissant, then layer with lettuce, tomato slices, crispy chicken, and the top croissant half

# Notes:

01 - Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature
02 - For a spicier version, add hot sauce to the mayo mixture
03 - Chicken can be prepared in advance and reheated before assembly
04 - Try adding avocado slices or pickles for extra flavor