Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Flavor: A perfect replica of Popeye’s signature seasoning.

• Juicy & Tender Meat: The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and tender.

• Crispy Golden Coating: Double dredging creates that extra-crispy crust.

• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking.

• Homemade Delight: Skip the drive-thru and enjoy fresh fried chicken from home!

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 4–6 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, wings, or breasts)

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for extra kick)

For the Seasoning Blend:

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp white pepper (optional, for authentic flavor)

For the Coating:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Blend

1. In a small bowl, mix all the seasoning blend ingredients. Set aside.

Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and half of the seasoning blend. Reserve the rest of the seasoning for later.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

1. Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture, coating it well.

2. Dip it back into the marinade, then dredge it again in the flour mixture to create a double coating for extra crunch.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat (or use a deep fryer) to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

3. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

• Adjust the heat: Add more or less cayenne pepper depending on your spice preference.

• Gluten-free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

• Add seasoning to the coating: You can add more seasoning to the flour mixture if you prefer a more intense flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Yes, you can use any cut of chicken you prefer, but cooking times may vary depending on the size and type of the chicken.

Can I bake this fried chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, but it won’t be as crispy as the fried version.

Can I freeze the fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken after frying. Let it cool completely, then wrap it in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness.

Conclusion

This Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try for fried chicken lovers. The juicy meat, crispy coating, and flavorful seasoning will make this homemade version a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or preparing for a gathering, this fried chicken is sure to impress!