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Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken

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Enjoy the crispy, flavorful crunch of Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken right at home! This recipe features marinated chicken soaked in a spicy buttermilk bath and coated in a flavorful blend of spices for that signature fried chicken crunch. Perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika, cayenne, and more, this homemade fried chicken rivals the famous Popeye’s version!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 3 cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons Louisiana hot sauce
  • 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
  • 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 mixture. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best flavor and tenderness.

  • Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before frying. This ensures more even cooking.

  • Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a large dish or bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly.

  • Heat the Oil: Heat your frying oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C).

  • Dredge the Chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the flour mixture, coating each piece thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.

  • Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the pieces.

  • Drain and Rest: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor and juiciness.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture (coat, dip back into buttermilk, then coat again in flour).
  • Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your desired heat level.
  • You can use peanut oil for frying, as it has a high smoking point and imparts a great flavor.

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