01 -
Combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Submerge chicken breasts in the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, up to 4 hours to tenderize and flavor.
02 -
While chicken marinates, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a wide shallow dish.
03 -
Remove chicken breasts from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the breading adheres, and transfer to a wire rack.
04 -
Pour approximately 1 inch of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F.
05 -
Carefully lower breaded chicken breasts into oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 6 to 8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, verifying an internal temperature of 165°F.
06 -
Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel–lined wire rack to drain any excess oil.
07 -
Whisk mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper together. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until smooth and emulsified.
08 -
Spread Caesar dressing on each brioche bun base, layer with chopped romaine, fried chicken, and shaved Parmesan. Place bun tops and serve immediately.