Craving that delicious Publix chicken tender sub but don't want to make a special trip? This recipe brings the familiar flavors of that iconic sandwich right to your kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a satisfying lunch. Get ready for a taste of restaurant-quality deliciousness, homemade and healthier! This easy recipe offers a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 6 sub rolls
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup shredded tomato
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced pickles
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken Tenders:
- Cut the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips, about 1-inch thick.
- Season the chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken strip in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the chicken: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken tenders in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Subs:
- Prepare the rolls: Slice the sub rolls lengthwise.
- Spread the mayo: Spread mayonnaise evenly on both halves of each roll.
- Layer the ingredients: Add lettuce, tomato, pickles, and the crispy chicken tenders to the bottom half of each roll.
- Top and serve: Top with the other half of the roll and serve immediately.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the skillet when frying will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for best results.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings such as cheese, bacon, or different sauces to customize your sub.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken Sub: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of mayonnaise.
- Honey Mustard Chicken: Mix honey and Dijon mustard for a tangy and sweet twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This delicious and easy recipe provides a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy your homemade Publix copycat chicken tender sub! It's a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a family meal or a quick lunch. This homemade cooking experience offers a delicious alternative to takeout, letting you control the ingredients and enjoy a healthier option. Making this recipe is a great way to explore homemade cooking and improve your cooking skills, creating delicious dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen.