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The Ultimate Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind

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This crispy, flavorful fried chicken recipe replicates the iconic Popeye’s fried chicken, with a secret blend of spices and a perfectly seasoned batter. Enjoy this restaurant-quality fried chicken at home!

Ingredients

Scale
  1. For the Chicken:

    • 3 lbs of chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on)
    • 3 cups buttermilk
    • 2 tablespoons Louisiana hot sauce

    For the Breading:

    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon white pepper
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

    For Frying:

    • Oil, for frying (canola or peanut oil works well)

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken:
    In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Louisiana hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor and tenderness.

  • Prepare the Breading:
    In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir to combine.

  • Fry the Chicken:
    After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before frying. This step helps in even cooking.
    Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
    While the oil heats up, dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks well.

  • Cooking the Chicken:
    Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

 

  • Serve:
    Serve your crispy, flavorful Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken hot and enjoy! It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, double dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
  • Make sure to fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper for more or less heat, depending on your preference.

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