Popeyes Spicy Fried Chicken

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Crispy, golden fried chicken with a kick of spice—this recipe brings the flavors you love from Popeyes straight to your kitchen. Perfect for a family meal or your next gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken (drumsticks, thighs, wings)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp white pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, white pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground mustard, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well.
  2. Add the chicken to the mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Flour Coating:

  1. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, white pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground mustard, dried oregano, and dried thyme.

Coat the Chicken:

  1. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing to ensure the coating sticks.

Fry the Chicken:

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve:

  1. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes per batch
Total Time: 35 minutes + marinating time

Tips and Variations

Tips:

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  • Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
  • Double Dredge: For extra crispy chicken, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then the flour mixture a second time.
  • Temperature Control: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking.

Variations:

  • Extra Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
  • Herbaceous: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the flour mixture for a different flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How to Store

Refrigerator:

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes to regain some crispiness.

Freezer:

  • To freeze, place cooled chicken on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as boneless pieces cook faster.

Q: Can I bake this instead of frying?
A: Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.

Q: What can I serve with this fried chicken?
A: Classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread are great choices. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad.

Enjoy your homemade Popeyes Spicy Fried Chicken!

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