Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich

This recipe is what happens when comfort food and creativity collide. Whether you’re planning a weekend treat, impressing your brunch crew, or just craving something outrageous, this sandwich is the move. And guess what? I’ve broken it all down for you so you can whip it up in your own kitchen. Let’s dig in!

For more lunch inspiration, try the smoky Texas Brisket Bacon Recipe or the colorful Santa Veggie Tray—perfect complements to this sweet and savory sandwich!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This isn’t your average sandwich; the Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich stands out as a flavor-packed creation. It’s bold, indulgent, and packs a unique combination of flavors you’ll crave again and again. Sweet cinnamon rolls paired with crunchy, savory fried chicken? It’s the ultimate contrast that works perfectly together.

Plus, the tangy slaw brings a whole new dimension, cutting through the richness and adding a fresh crunch. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking or love trying unconventional food combinations, this sandwich is bound to blow your mind. It’s not just a meal—it’s an adventure for your taste buds.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

Anyone who’s a fan of bold flavors and fun food experiments will absolutely love this sandwich! Moreover, it’s perfect for:

• Brunch lovers looking for a twist, especially when they want to wow their guests.
• Comfort food enthusiasts who enjoy indulgent, satisfying meals.
• Those who love mixing sweet and savory to create a flavor-packed bite.
• People who want to impress friends and family with something totally unique and unforgettable.

In addition, it’s a conversation starter. For instance, imagine serving this at your next family gathering or weekend hangout—without fail, everyone will be asking for the recipe.

When to Make This Sandwich

This Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich recipe is ideal for:

• A weekend lunch or brunch.
• Special gatherings or celebrations.
• When you’re craving something indulgent and out of the ordinary.

It’s the perfect comfort food on a cozy day or a show-stopping addition to your game-day menu. Trust me, this sandwich fits into any moment when you want food that’s memorable and fun.

Why Cinnamon Rolls and Fried Chicken Work Together

The combination of sweet and savory isn’t new, but this pairing takes it to the next level. The soft, sweet cinnamon roll acts as a perfect contrast to the crispy, spiced chicken. Add in the tangy slaw, and you’ve got a medley of flavors that keeps every bite interesting.

But let’s not forget about the textures. The fluffy cinnamon roll, crunchy fried chicken, and creamy slaw create layers that make every bite feel indulgent yet balanced. It’s like your favorite fairground food but reimagined for your kitchen.

How to Save Time Without Sacrificing Flavor

If you’re short on time, here are a few shortcuts:

• Use store-bought cinnamon rolls and slaw mix.
• Marinate the chicken the night before so it’s ready to fry when you need it.
• Prepare the compound butter in advance and freeze it.

These tricks let you enjoy this sandwich even on a busy day without compromising the flavor-packed experience.

What You’ll Need to Make This Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients to help you prep like a pro and make the best Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich ever.

For the Marinade

• 3 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound chicken tenders (about 8 pieces)

To start, the marinade sets the foundation for flavor. First, combine the buttermilk, spices, and chicken tenders. Then, ensure every tender is evenly coated for the juiciest result.

For the Slaw

• 3 cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or a mix)
• 2 cups thinly sliced Vidalia onion
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1½ tablespoons celery salt
• 1 tablespoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1¼ tablespoons sugar
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Next, move on to the slaw. The blend of crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing creates the perfect balance. In particular, the tangy vinegar and Dijon mustard bring a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon roll.

For the Compound Butter

• 1 stick salted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped sage
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

Meanwhile, the compound butter adds depth to the overall flavor profile. As you mix the garlic and smoked paprika into the softened butter, be sure everything is well combined for a seamless spread.

For the Coating

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ tablespoons onion powder
• 1½ tablespoons garlic powder
• 6-8 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup crushed ridged potato chips
• 1 cup untoasted sesame seeds
• 3 tablespoons chile de arbol flakes
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes

Finally, prepare the coating. This step is key for the chicken’s crispiness. Alternating layers of panko, chips, and spices ensure every bite is crunchy and full of flavor. Don’t skip any of these ingredients—they each play a role in creating the ultimate texture.

To Cook and Serve

• 1 (24-ounce) bottle peanut or rice bran oil
• Large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large zip-top bag, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
• Lightly pound the chicken tenders until slightly flattened (this helps them cook evenly).
• Add the chicken to the marinade, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better for maximum flavor).

2. Make the Slaw

• In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage and sliced Vidalia onion.
• In another bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, celery salt, white pepper, vinegar, and sugar.
• Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate.

3. Prep the Compound Butter

• In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped sage, and smoked paprika.
• Scoop the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and twist the ends. Refrigerate until firm.

4. Prepare the Coating

• Set up your breading station with three wide dishes:

1. Flour mixed with onion and garlic powder.
2. Beaten eggs.
3. A mixture of panko breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, sesame seeds, chile flakes, and crushed cornflakes.

5. Fry the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
• Coat each tender in the flour, dip it in the egg, and roll it in the crumb mixture until fully coated.
• Heat the oil in a large frying pan to 355–365°F.
• Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

6. Toast the Cinnamon Rolls

• Slice the cinnamon rolls in half like burger buns.
• Spread the inside of each half with compound butter.
• Toast them in a pan, cut-side down, until golden and slightly crisp.

7. Assemble the Sandwich

• Place two fried chicken tenders on the bottom half of each cinnamon roll.
• Add a generous scoop of slaw on top.
• Finish with the top half of the cinnamon roll.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet-savory madness that is the ultimate Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich.

Tips for Success

• Marinate overnight: The longer the chicken marinates, the juicier and more flavorful it’ll be. Additionally, marinating overnight ensures the spices fully penetrate the chicken for the best taste.
• Use fresh oil: Without a doubt, fresh oil makes a huge difference in the crispiness of the fried chicken. Moreover, it prevents the chicken from tasting greasy.
• Customize your slaw: To add a personal touch, throw in shredded carrots or a splash of hot sauce if you like a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can experiment with apples or raisins for a hint of sweetness.
• Make it your own: For even more variety, swap out the slaw for pickles, or drizzle some honey for an extra layer of sweetness. On the other hand, adding a spicy aioli could provide a fiery twist.

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FAQs About the Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Fried Chicken Sandwich isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s indulgent, it’s bold, and it’s a little wild (in the best way possible). Whether you’re making it for brunch, dinner, or just because you can’t stop thinking about it, one thing’s for sure: this sandwich will blow your mind.

So, go ahead and treat yourself. Life’s too short to not eat something this epic. And hey, if you make it, let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your thoughts (and see your photos)!