Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! I remember the first time I took a bite; the crunch of the golden-battered chicken paired with the creamy spicy mayo was nothing short of a revelation. It was a busy weeknight, and I was craving something both indulgent and satisfying. That’s when I decided to recreate the magic of the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich at home, bringing the flavors of that iconic sandwich right into my kitchen.

As I gathered the ingredients, I felt a rush of excitement. There’s just something about frying that transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. The aroma of the chicken frying, the sound of the oil bubbling away, and the anticipation of that first crispy bite were all part of the experience. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings but also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual gathering or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors is unmatched, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can recreate this fast-food favorite that’s truly finger-licking good! Join me in this culinary adventure and let’s make the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich together!

What Goes Into Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

The ingredients for the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich are simple yet effective, coming together to create a dish that’s packed with flavor. The key players include the chicken, which is the star of the show, and the rich buttermilk that tenderizes and flavors it beautifully. Then there’s the crispy coating, made with flour and cornstarch, ensuring each bite is a satisfying crunch.

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The heart of this sandwich, these chicken breasts are perfect for frying and yield a juicy interior.
• 4 cups vegetable oil – Essential for deep frying, this oil ensures the chicken gets crispy without burning.
• 1 cup buttermilk – This tangy liquid not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds incredible flavor.
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce – A must for that spicy kick that makes this sandwich unforgettable.
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and depth to the breading.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the flavor of the chicken with its fragrant taste.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Provides an extra layer of flavor that complements the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of heat and seasoning to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in all the ingredients.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the crispy outer layer of the chicken.
• ½ cup cornstarch – Helps create a light and crispy texture in the breading.
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper – For those who love a bit of heat in their sandwiches.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – The base for our spicy mayo, it adds creaminess to the sandwich.
• 1 teaspoon honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the spice in the mayo.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Used for toasting the buns to perfection.
• 4 brioche buns – Soft and slightly sweet, these buns are perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
• 16 dill pickle slices – Adds a refreshing crunch and tang to each bite.

Recipe Directions for Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

Making the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is not only rewarding but also a fun cooking adventure. Let’s get started with these deliciously detailed steps to guide you through the process of creating this crispy masterpiece.

1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Cover them with a piece of plastic wrap to avoid any mess. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures a juicy texture. Once done, remove the wrap and cut each breast in half to fit the bun.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. This marinade is key to adding flavor to your chicken, so make sure to mix it well. Once combined, add the chicken into the mixture and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want to infuse even more flavor.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the breading. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together until evenly mixed, creating a flavorful coating for the chicken.
4. After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator. Add about ¼ cup of the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture and stir with a fork until small clumps form. This will help create a thicker crust when frying.
5. Now, take each piece of chicken and thoroughly coat it in the flour mixture, pressing it onto the chicken to ensure a good crust forms. Lay the coated chicken pieces on a tray and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This chilling step is important as it allows the breading to adhere better while frying.
6. While the chicken chills, heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer for precise measurement. This temperature ensures the chicken will fry crisply without absorbing too much oil.
7. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully add the chicken, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the chicken for about 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Turn the chicken occasionally for even cooking, then set it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. While the chicken fries, prepare the spicy mayo. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, honey, and garlic powder until smooth. This creamy mixture will complement the chicken and add an extra kick of flavor.
9. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the brioche buns, toasting them until they are golden brown. The buttery flavor adds another layer of deliciousness.
10. To assemble the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, take a toasted bun and spread the spicy mayo generously on the bottom. Lay down 4 slices of dill pickles on the mayo, followed by the crispy fried chicken. Drizzle a bit more spicy mayo on top before placing the top bun. Enjoy your homemade Popeyes Chicken Sandwich!

Tips for Success

Making the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich can be a rewarding experience, especially when you have these tips in mind. Let’s ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly every time!

• Storage: After enjoying your Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Serve your Popeyes Chicken Sandwich with crispy fries or a fresh side salad for a delightful meal.
• Additional Flavors: If you like a little more heat, try adding sliced jalapeños to your sandwich for an extra kick!
• Bun Choices: While brioche buns are classic, feel free to experiment with other types of bread like whole wheat or ciabatta for different textures.
• Meal Prep: For easy meal prep, marinate the chicken ahead of time and freeze it in the buttermilk mixture for a quick weeknight dinner option.
• Make it a Platter: Consider making a platter of mini sandwiches for game day or parties. Everyone loves a crispy treat they can grab and go!

Pairing Suggestions for Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

When it comes to serving the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich, there are countless options that can enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Crispy French Fries: You can never go wrong with a side of crispy fries. They are the perfect accompaniment to the crunchy sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad makes for a great side dish that pairs well with fried foods.
• Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables can elevate the flavors and add brightness to your meal.
• BBQ Sauce: A side of your favorite BBQ sauce can be a delicious dip for those who enjoy a smoky flavor.
• Seasonal Salads: During summer months, consider a light salad with seasonal fruits to add a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s game day, a picnic, or a casual family gathering, the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is always a hit!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is truly a standout recipe that brings the flavors of fast food right to your kitchen. With its crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and a delightful spicy mayo, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings in the best way. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s an easy and fun way to impress family and friends while indulging in a classic comfort food. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious sandwich with others!

Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

The ultimate comfort food, the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich delivers a crispy, juicy bite with every mouthful. Easy to make at home, this sandwich is perfect for satisfying your cravings any night of the week. Don’t miss out on this delicious experience tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 540

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups vegetable oil for frying
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick)
• 4 brioche buns
• 16 dill pickle slices

Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Deep Fry Oil Thermometer

Method

 

1. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with a piece of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken into an even thickness.
2. Remove the wrap and cut each breast in half to fit the bun.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
4. Add in the chicken and toss to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour, or up to overnight.
5. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Add in ¼ cup of the buttermilk mixture from the chicken and use a fork to stir until small clumps form.
7. Bread the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it into the chicken to create a thick crust.
8. Refrigerate battered chicken pieces for 10 minutes.
9. While the chicken chills, heat the oil in a Dutch oven or other heavy-bottomed pot until it reaches 350°F.
10. Fry the chicken, in batches if needed, until crisp and golden on both sides and the chicken is cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
11. Set on a paper towel lined plate to drain.
12. While the chicken cooks, stir together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, honey, and garlic powder to make the spicy mayo.
13. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toast the buns until golden.
14. To assemble, spread spicy mayo on the bottom bun, top with 4 dill pickle slices, fried chicken, and another drizzle of spicy mayo.
15. Add the top bun and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: I like to marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator in preparation for frying, but 1 hour is enough.
• Tip 2: Once breaded, let the chicken chill for at least 10 minutes. This helps the batter adhere to the chicken, so it stays put while frying.
• Tip 3: Allowing frying oil to come back to temp. between batches ensures every piece cooks fully and evenly. If the oil is too cool, you’ll end up with soggy breading.
• Tip 4: Properly cooked chicken should be 165°F internally when checked with an instant-read thermometer.
• Tip 5: To keep the already cooked chicken warm while frying the rest, lay the pieces on a wire rack set in a rimmed baking sheet in a 200°F oven. This will help keep the chicken crisp.

Previous PostCoconut Cream Pie

Next Post Instant Pot Chicken Fajita Pasta

Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!