Craving that ultra-crispy, spicy fried chicken from Popeyes but can’t swing by the drive-thru? This Popeyes Fried Chicken Copycat Recipe brings the flavor right into your kitchen — and the results are downright legendary.
Using the same method fast food giants like KFC and Popeyes rely on, this recipe locks in the juiciness and builds layers of crunch you can actually hear. The result? Crispy golden chicken with bold, spicy flavor and that tender, fall-off-the-bone interior.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping for a picnic, or just trying to master fried chicken at home, this recipe is a must-try. It uses everyday ingredients but delivers restaurant-level results.
So grab your spices, fire up the fryer, and get ready for your best homemade fried chicken yet—this one’s going to become a regular in your comfort food rotation.
- More recipes:
- How To Perfectly Make Italian Zucchini Boats Recipe
- How to make An Instant Pot Fig Jam Recipe
- Chocolate Swiss Roll Cake Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups whole buttermilk
- 3 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco), divided
- 1 (2 1/2- to 3-lb.) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup water
- 4 cups (about 17 oz.) all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Peanut oil
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 ) Stir together buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of the hot sauce in a large bowl. Submerge the chicken in buttermilk mixture; cover and refrigerate overnight.
2 ) Whisk together eggs, water, and remaining 1 tablespoon hot sauce in a medium bowl. Stir together flour, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
3 ) Pour oil to a depth of 2 1/2 inches in a large Dutch oven, and heat to 325°F over medium-high. Remove chicken from buttermilk mixture; discard buttermilk mixture.
4 ) Dip chicken pieces in egg mixture, and dredge in flour mixture; shaking off excess flour. Dip in egg mixture, and dredge in flour again; shaking off excess flour.
5 ) Carefully add chicken to hot oil, 4 pieces at a time; fry until golden brown and cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes, maintaining oil temperature of 325°F. Drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
TIPS: Make sure to leave the skin on, and if there are minor pieces of fat that’s fine. it’ll add some extra flavor. Once it’s cut wash the chicken thoroughly with water and lemon juice, or some white vinegar.
Now, this is the most important part of this process, bringing the chicken and buttermilk tenderizes the meat and keeps it nice and juicy. Add 4 cups of milk to a bowl followed by 5 tablespoons of white vinegar, or lemon juice, and let it set for about 10 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Popeyes Copycat Fried Chicken
- Soak in Buttermilk Overnight
Marinate your chicken in buttermilk + hot sauce for extra juiciness and tender texture. - Add Cayenne & Paprika for Heat
These spices give the chicken that signature Popeyes-style spicy kick. - Double Dredge for Extra Crunch
Dredge in seasoned flour, dip back in buttermilk, and dredge again. This ensures that crispy, flaky coating. - Use Cornstarch in Your Flour Mix
Cornstarch lightens the batter and makes it extra crispy, just like Popeyes. - Fry at the Right Temp
Maintain oil between 325°F–350°F for even cooking. Don’t overcrowd the pan! - Season the Flour & the Chicken
Add salt and spices directly to both your marinade and flour mixture—flavor every layer. - Let It Rest Before Frying
After dredging, let the chicken rest on a rack for 10–15 minutes to help the coating set.
- SHOP ON AMAZON:
- All-Clad Hard-Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan
- AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned
- Aluminum Nonstick Frying Pan
FAQ – Popeyes Fried Chicken Copycat Recipe
What oil is best for frying chicken?
- Use oils with high smoke points like peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil.
Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, but bone-in, skin-on pieces give the best flavor and texture—just like the real thing.
What makes Popeyes chicken so crispy?
- Their technique includes double breading and the use of cornstarch or rice flour in the batter for maximum crunch.
How do I make it less spicy?
- Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. It’ll still be flavorful without too much heat.
Can I bake or air-fry this chicken instead?
- Yes! For a lighter version, spray with oil and air fry at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What sides go well with this chicken?
- Serve with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, biscuits, or mac and cheese for a full Southern-style feast.
How long can leftovers last?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
