Description
Craving the crispy, spicy goodness of Popeye’s fried chicken? This copycat fried chicken recipe brings the perfect crunch and flavor to your kitchen! Made with a buttermilk marinade and a blend of savory Cajun spices, this homemade fried chicken is golden, juicy, and absolutely delicious. Skip the drive-thru and enjoy restaurant-quality fried chicken at home!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Seasoned Flour: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or large skillet and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then coat in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place chicken into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove fried chicken from the oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat by dipping the floured chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350°F for perfect frying.
- Serve with coleslaw, biscuits, or mashed potatoes for the ultimate meal!
