Popeyes Chicken Recipe (Crispy & Juicy Copycat)

Popeyes Chicken Recipe (Crispy & Juicy Copycat)

This homemade Popeyes fried chicken recipe replicates the iconic crunch and juicy flavor you know and love. Marinated in seasoned buttermilk and fried to golden perfection, it’s the ultimate comfort food you can make right at home.

Ingredients

• For the Buttermilk Marinade:
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tsp hot sauce (like Louisiana or Tabasco)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 6–8 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, legs, breasts)
• For the Seasoned Flour Coating:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to spice level)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Optional: ½ tsp MSG (for authentic flavor)
• For Frying:
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken
2. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, and all spices. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
3. Prepare the Dredge
4. In a separate bowl, combine all the flour coating ingredients. Mix thoroughly.
5. Coat the Chicken
6. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mix, pressing firmly to coat. For extra crunch, dip back into buttermilk, then flour again.
7. Heat the Oil
8. Heat oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 325–350°F (165–175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
9. Fry Until Golden
10. Fry 2–3 pieces at a time for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through. Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
11. Drain & Rest
12. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let rest a few minutes before serving.