Popeyes Chicken Sandwich Copycat

This copycat Popeyes Chicken Sandwich brings the iconic crunch and creamy heat right into your kitchen. Each bite is a juicy, golden piece of fried chicken nestled in a buttery brioche bun with tangy pickles and a spread of spicy mayo. If you have ever craved that perfect balance of crunch and flavor without leaving your house, this recipe is for you.

This recipe became an instant hit the first time I tried it at home. My family now begs for these sandwiches on Sunday nights and no one misses takeout.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Small chicken breasts keep everything a manageable size and fry evenly. Try to select ones with a similar thickness
• Buttermilk: Classic Southern marinade that tenderizes plus adds tang. Use real buttermilk if you can but homemade will work in a pinch
• Flour and cornstarch: Combining them creates that signature craggy crisp texture
• Smoked paprika: For a deep smoky undertone opt for good quality Spanish paprika if possible
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Seasonings that build savory layers
• Salt: Makes every element pop use a fine kosher or sea salt for best flavor
• Fryer oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best for frying
• Mayonnaise: Creamy backbone for the spicy sauce choose full fat for the richest result
• Hot sauce: Brings the zing to the mayo use your favorite brand and adjust heat to taste
• Brioche buns: Lightly toasted these add extra buttery softness
• Pickle chips: Tangy pickles cut through the richness look for thick cut ones that hold up well

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Pour the buttermilk into a baking dish then add chicken breasts and turn to coat. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes so it gets tender and flavorful

Mix the Breading:

Combine the flour cornstarch smoked paprika garlic powder onion powder and salt in another shallow dish. Whisk it well for even seasoning

Create Texture in the Coating:

Take a few spoonfuls of the buttermilk from the chicken dish and drizzle them into the flour mixture. Use a fork to gently toss and create little flour clumps for an extra crispy crust

Bread the Chicken:

Season the marinated chicken with salt on both sides. Press each breast firmly into the flour mixture so every inch is coated thickly. Shake off excess and lay on a rack

Let the Breading Rest:

Allow your breaded chicken to sit out for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the coating stick better during frying

Heat the Oil:

Preheat about three inches of oil in a large heavy skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer so the chicken fries evenly

Fry the Chicken:

Gently slide each breast into the hot oil. Cook undisturbed for five to six minutes on the first side until deeply golden. Flip and fry for another four to five minutes until cooked through and very crispy

Drain and Rest:

Remove cooked chicken onto a cooling rack set over a baking sheet so it stays crisp. Sprinkle with a touch more salt

Make Spicy Mayo:

Stir together mayo and hot sauce in a small bowl until fully blended. Adjust the heat to your preference

Assemble Your Sandwich:

Swipe spicy mayo liberally onto both sides of each bun. Layer with pickle chips on the bottom bun add the hot crispy chicken then cap with the top bun and press gently together. Serve hot

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For me the best part is that spicy mayo. I never thought homemade could match the drive-thru version but once I added my own tweaks it stole the show. My family will not let me serve fried chicken without it anymore

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store the fried chicken pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a hot oven set over a rack to revive as much crispiness as possible. Do not assemble the sandwiches until you are ready to enjoy so the buns and pickles stay fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

No buttermilk on hand Mix regular milk with a touch of lemon juice and let sit for a minute. You can swap smoked paprika for regular or add a dash of cayenne for more heat. Any soft sandwich bun will do but brioche adds that signature buttery finish

Serving Suggestions

Serve your sandwiches with crunchy coleslaw or crispy fries for the full diner effect. Pickled jalapenos can be swapped for classic pickles if you love extra heat. These sandwiches pair well with iced tea or a cold soda on a summer afternoon

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make my own buttermilk if I don't have any?

Yes, simply add one teaspoon of lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for a minute before using.

→ Why add buttermilk to the flour mixture?

Incorporating some buttermilk forms pebbles in the breading, resulting in a crispier and more textured coating.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Change the amount of hot sauce in the mayo or add cayenne pepper to the dredge for extra heat.

→ Can the chicken be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

→ Is it possible to make the spicy mayo in advance?

Absolutely. The sauce can be prepared up to a week in advance and kept refrigerated in an airtight container.