Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Crispy and golden-brown Popeye's CopyCat fried chicken with a spicy Cajun seasoning crust and juicy interior.

Popeye’s CopyCat Fried Chicken


  • Author: iyma hernandes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Recreate the crispy, juicy, and flavorful Popeye’s fried chicken at home with this easy-to-follow recipe featuring bold Cajun spices and a crunchy texture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 pieces bone-in chicken (thighs, drumsticks, wings)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, Cajun seasoning, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat well. For an extra crispy texture, dip back into the buttermilk and dredge again in the flour mixture.
  4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully place breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  6. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for best results.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Popeye’s fried chicken, crispy chicken, Cajun fried chicken, homemade fried chicken