Some meals just hit all the right notes—crispy, creamy, spicy, and a little sweet. That’s exactly what you get with this Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich. The chicken is brined in pickle juice for extra juiciness, coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, and seared to golden perfection.
But the real magic? A rich, homemade pimento cheese spread, infused with sharp cheddar, mild jalapeños, and velvety avocado mayo. A drizzle of honey over the top adds just the right touch of sweetness, making every bite irresistible.
This sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Inspired by Southern comfort food, it’s perfect for game nights, weekend cookouts, or when you just want something indulgent yet balanced.
And if you’re looking for the perfect pairing, Baked Apple Fritters add a warm, cinnamon-kissed contrast, while Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes make this a next-level brunch option. Crunchy, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, this sandwich is a must-try for spice lovers and cheese fanatics alike. If you’re ready to elevate your sandwich game, let’s get cooking!
The Secret to Loving Every Bite!
- Crispy, Juicy Chicken – Brining in pickle juice makes the chicken incredibly tender, while the breadcrumb coating keeps it ultra-crunchy.
- Homemade Pimento Cheese – Freshly grated sharp cheddar, creamy mayo, and diced pimentos create an irresistible cheesy spread.
- Sweet & Spicy Kick – A drizzle of honey balances out the jalapeños and smoky paprika, making every bite pop.
- Healthier Twist – Using whole wheat buns and avocado oil keeps this sandwich lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a cozy dinner, game-day treat, or a crowd-pleaser at brunch, this sandwich always delivers.
Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 small chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pickle juice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups cauli crunch or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 Tablespoons avocado oil divided
Pimento Cheese:
- 1 8- ounce block sharp cheddar cheese grated
- 2 Tablespoons avocado mayo
- 1 4- ounce jar pimentos drained
- 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon chopped tame jalepenos
For the Sandwiches:
- 6 whole wheat buns
- 1/3 cup pickled tame jalepeno slices
- 2 teaspoons honey
Instructions
- Brine the Chicken: Soak chicken breasts in a mixture of pickle juice and milk for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Coating: In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another, mix tapioca starch, cauli crunch (or panko), paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip the brined chicken in egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
- Make the Pimento Cheese: Mix grated cheddar, avocado mayo, chopped pimentos, salt, and jalapeños in a bowl until smooth.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread pimento cheese on toasted whole wheat buns, place crispy chicken on top, and add pickled jalapeños.
- Drizzle with Honey: Finish with a light drizzle of honey for a sweet-spicy contrast.
- Serve & Enjoy: Pair with Baked Apple Fritters or Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes for a complete meal.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 554kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 51g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 1279mg |
Flavor-Packed Variations You Haven’t Tried Yet!
- Buttermilk Brined Chicken – Swap pickle juice for buttermilk in the brine for extra tenderness and a subtle tang that complements the pimento cheese beautifully.
- Cornflake Crunch Coating – For an ultra-crispy texture, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes. This adds a satisfying crunch and a slightly sweet contrast to the spice.
- Hot Honey Glaze – Instead of drizzling plain honey, mix it with a pinch of cayenne and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bolder, more complex heat.
- Charred Jalapeños for Depth – Instead of pickled jalapeños, char fresh jalapeños over an open flame, then slice them for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Pimento Cheese with a Kick – Blend in roasted garlic or a dash of smoked paprika to deepen the flavor of the pimento cheese, making it even more indulgent.
- Brioche or Pretzel Buns – Swap whole wheat buns for buttery brioche for a richer bite or pretzel buns for a slightly salty, chewy contrast to the creamy cheese.
- Crispy Bacon Addition – A slice of thick-cut crispy bacon takes this sandwich to the next level, adding a smoky-savory balance to the sweet honey drizzle.
- Spicy Slaw Topping – Layer on a quick slaw made with shredded cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of hot sauce for a fresh crunch that cuts through the richness.
- Grilled Instead of Fried – If you love a smoky, charred flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of frying—it keeps the sandwich lighter while still delivering bold flavor.
- Extra-Cheesy Pimento Spread – Mix in a bit of cream cheese or Monterey Jack for a creamier, meltier spread that oozes into every bite.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
