Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

If you’re a fan of crispy, crunchy, golden fried chicken with a juicy, tender interior, you’ve just found your next favorite recipe! This Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken brings all the flavor of your favorite fast-food chicken right into your kitchen, and trust me, it’s a game-changer.

The secret to this fried chicken’s irresistible crunch? A seasoned flour coating that’s perfectly spiced, plus a double-dip technique that ensures a crispy, flavorful crust with each bite. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a fried chicken feast, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

Crispy Perfection

The crispiness of the fried chicken is unmatched. The outer crust is golden and crunchy, while the inside stays incredibly juicy. It’s the kind of fried chicken you’ll crave, no matter the occasion.

Full of Flavor

Packed with the perfect blend of spices, this chicken has just the right amount of heat and seasoning to keep your taste buds excited without being overwhelming. It’s all about that balance!

Easy to Make

Don’t let the thought of deep frying intimidate you. The process is straightforward, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality fried chicken in your own kitchen.

Customizable

If you want to take it up a notch, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking! You can make it spicier with extra cayenne, or keep it mild and flavorful for the kids. You’ve got the control!

Ingredients for Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Pieces (Drumsticks, Thighs, Wings): The star of the show! Bone-in, skin-on pieces give you that juicy, flavorful chicken that stays tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
• Buttermilk: A must for tenderizing the chicken and giving it that classic southern flavor. It helps create the perfect batter.
• Hot Sauce: Adds a subtle kick and enhances the flavor profile of the chicken.
• Salt & Pepper: For basic seasoning, ensuring the chicken is well-flavored.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples bring a depth of flavor to the chicken, balancing out the spices.

For the Coating:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the crispy coating that will give your chicken that crunchy texture.
• Cornstarch: Helps the coating become extra crispy. It’s the secret ingredient for that perfect crunch.
• Paprika: Adds smokiness and color to the crust.
• Cayenne Pepper: For just the right amount of heat.
• Dried Oregano & Thyme: Adds an herby flavor that enhances the overall seasoning.
• Baking Powder: This helps make the crust light and crispy, giving it the perfect lift during frying.

For Frying:

• Vegetable Oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection. Make sure you have enough to submerge the chicken in the pan.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to combine.
2. Add your chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, making sure they’re fully submerged.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a large shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and baking powder. This seasoned flour mixture will give your chicken that signature crispy crust.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
2. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour for a double coating.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). There should be enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
2. Working in batches, carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve your crispy Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 25g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 6%
Iron: 15%
Potassium: 350mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinate Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (or overnight with marinating)

How to Serve Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

Classic Southern Meal

Pair this fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, corn on the cob, and a side of biscuits for a true southern feast.

Sandwich Style

For a quick and tasty lunch, turn your fried chicken into a sandwich. Add some lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite sauce between two soft buns.

On Its Own

Sometimes, the best way to enjoy fried chicken is all on its own. With its crispy exterior and juicy inside, this chicken is perfect for snacking or serving as the main course for dinner.

Additional Tips

• Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: If you love an extra-crunchy coating, dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour twice before frying.
• Adjust the Spice Level: You can easily adjust the heat of the chicken by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the marinade.
• Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: It’s important to maintain a temperature of around 350°F (175°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly.
• Frying in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry the chicken in batches to prevent the temperature from dropping too much.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this fried chicken in the oven? A1: While this recipe is meant for frying, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture won’t be the same, but it’s a healthier alternative!

Q2: Can I use boneless chicken? A2: Yes, you can use boneless chicken breast or thighs, but the frying time will be shorter since boneless chicken cooks faster.

Q3: How can I store leftovers? A3: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for best results.

Q4: Can I freeze the chicken? A4: Yes! After frying, let the chicken cool completely and freeze it in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven.

Q5: How do I make the chicken spicier? A5: To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the buttermilk marinade.

Q6: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A6: Yes! Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the coating. Be sure to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Q7: Can I use skinless chicken? A7: Skinless chicken can be used, but the skin adds flavor and texture. For a similar result, you may want to use a batter to create a crisp exterior.

Q8: What oil is best for frying? A8: Vegetable oil works best for frying chicken, but you can also use peanut oil or canola oil.

Q9: How do I know when the chicken is done frying? A9: The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

Q10: Can I use this recipe for chicken tenders? A10: Absolutely! Just reduce the frying time since chicken tenders cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken, crispy, flavorful, and totally irresistible. With just the right balance of spices, this recipe brings that famous fried chicken taste right to your kitchen. Whether it’s for dinner, a party, or just a craving, this dish is sure to satisfy. So go ahead, fire up the fryer, and treat yourself to a homemade fried chicken feast!

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