North Bay Hot Chicken Sandwich Recipe

1. Dry brine the chicken by seasoning it with salt and placing it on a rack in the fridge for at least 4 hours to overnight.
2. In a saucepan, add the chilis and syrup. Warm the maple syrup to just before it comes to a simmer. Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the vinegar and salt. Allow it to cool to room temperature before straining out the chilis. Store the syrup in an airtight container until needed. The chilis are now considered candied and can be used as a garnish for drinks and desserts.
3. Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, garlic, and onion powder. Whisk to combine. In a separate bowl combine the buttermilk, pickle brine, and hot sauce – add more to taste, and beat in the egg. Drizzle some of the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture. Dip the dry brined chicken into the flour, then coat thoroughly in the buttermilk mixture and then back in the flour mixture. Set the dredged chicken onto a wire rack. Rest the coated chicken for at least 15 minutes, while the grill and oil are heating.
4. Place a stainless steel wok, cast iron dutch oven, or other heat-safe vessel for frying, onto your side burner and add 4 cups of oil.
5. Preheat the oil to 325°F to 350°F (163°C to 177°C). Preheat the main burners on the barbecue to 350°F (177°C) preparing for indirect heat. Into a small heat-safe pot or vessel, add some of the hot maple sauce. Place it over indirect heat to warm.
6. Fry the chicken for 12 to 18 minutes, or until golden and crisp. If they are not completely cooked through, but the coating is getting dark, they can finish on the grill while you cook the rest.
7. While the chicken is frying, combine the cayenne, maple flakes, garlic, and paprika. Whisk to combine. Once you have finished frying the chicken, while the oil is still hot, carefully spoon about ½ a cup of oil into the cayenne mixture.
8. Brush the hot and crispy chicken with the hot spicy oil mix. Then layer the chicken on a toasted bun with pickles and a drizzle of the maple sauce.

Indulge in the fiery flavors of the North Bay Hot Chicken Sandwich and let your taste buds soar. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe promises to ignite your passion for flavorful creations. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary journey like no other. What is your favorite grilled sandwich creation? Share your barbecue sandwich recipes, ideas, and photos on our social pages like Facebook and TikTok, using the hashtags #NapoleonEats and #NapoleonGrill.

Happy Grilling!