Popeyes Fried Chicken

Nothing beats the crunch of perfectly seasoned, crispy fried chicken. This Popeyes-style recipe delivers juicy, tender meat encased in an ultra-crispy, flavorful coating that brings the best of Southern comfort food right to your kitchen. The secret to achieving that signature crunch? A buttermilk marinade that keeps the chicken moist and a carefully blended flour mixture with cornstarch and spices for the ultimate crispiness. Serve it with biscuits, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for a meal that tastes just like your favorite fast food spot only better!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, black pepper, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and baking powder. Mix well.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat well.
5. Carefully place chicken in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
6. Remove and drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Marination Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

What Makes Popeyes Fried Chicken So Good?

There’s a reason why Popeyes’ fried chicken is considered one of the best in the fast-food world. It’s not just about deep-frying there’s a science to achieving that signature crunch and juiciness. Here’s what makes Popeyes-style fried chicken stand out:

1. The Buttermilk Marinade – Buttermilk is key to achieving juicy and flavorful chicken. It tenderizes the meat while allowing the seasoning to penetrate deep into the chicken. This results in a juicy, flavorful bite every time.
2. The Perfect Flour Coating – The flour mixture is more than just flour. It includes cornstarch, baking powder, and a blend of seasonings that help create that crunchy, textured coating. The cornstarch is the secret ingredient that enhances the crispiness.
3. Double Dredging for Extra Crunch – Popeyes chicken gets its crispy, flaky texture by being dredged in the seasoned flour mixture not just once but twice. This technique creates those irresistible craggy bits that crisp up beautifully when fried.
4. The Right Temperature for Frying – The key to perfect fried chicken is frying at the right temperature. Cooking at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, achieving a golden-brown crust while remaining tender inside.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Popeyes Fried Chicken

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Chicken

The best fried chicken starts with fresh, high-quality chicken pieces. Bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs and drumsticks work best because they stay moist and flavorful during frying.

2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

A good marinade makes all the difference. Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk mixture for at least four hours, or overnight if possible. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

3. Season Every Step of the Way

Great fried chicken is all about layers of seasoning. Don’t just season the flour—season the buttermilk marinade too. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

4. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch

Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture creates an extra crispy texture. It helps develop those signature crunchy ridges that make Popeyes fried chicken so irresistible.

5. Use the Right Frying Oil

Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are the best choices for deep-frying. They have high smoke points, meaning they can handle the high frying temperature without burning.

6. Fry in Batches

Overcrowding the frying pot lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy chicken. Always fry in small batches to keep the oil hot and ensure a crispy finish.

7. Drain Properly for Crispiness

After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from making the crust soggy.

What to Serve with Popeyes Fried Chicken

Popeyes-style fried chicken is a complete indulgence on its own, but pairing it with classic Southern sides makes for an unforgettable meal. Here are some perfect side dishes to serve with your homemade crispy chicken:

• Buttermilk Biscuits – Flaky, buttery, and slightly sweet, these biscuits are the perfect complement to crispy fried chicken.
• Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy coleslaw balances out the richness of fried chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes with Gravy – Creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich, savory gravy make for a comforting side.
• Mac and Cheese – Cheesy, creamy mac and cheese adds a deliciously indulgent touch.
• Corn on the Cob – Sweet, buttery corn on the cob pairs beautifully with crispy fried chicken.
• Cajun Fries – Spicy, crispy fries seasoned with Cajun spices make a great addition.

How to Store and Reheat Fried Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this chicken is so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them while keeping them crispy:

Storing Fried Chicken

• Let the fried chicken cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Fried Chicken

• Oven Method (Best for Crispiness): Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Air Fryer Method: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid the Microwave: The microwave will make the coating soggy instead of crispy.

Conclusion:

Making Popeyes-style fried chicken at home is easier than you think, and the results are absolutely worth it. With a few simple techniques marinating in buttermilk, using a well-seasoned flour mixture, and frying at the right temperature you can achieve that perfect crispy, juicy chicken right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re making it for a weekend treat, a special gathering, or just to satisfy your fried chicken cravings, this recipe will never disappoint. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that rivals any fast-food joint. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Now that you have all the secrets to making the perfect homemade Popeyes-style fried chicken, it’s time to get cooking. Let us know how it turns out and what sides you paired it with!