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Popeyes Spicy Fried Chicken

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This homemade version of Popeyes Spicy Fried Chicken delivers crispy, flavorful, and perfectly spiced chicken that rivals the fast-food favorite. With a well-seasoned batter and juicy, tender chicken, this recipe is a must-try for fried chicken lovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Serves 4

  • For the chicken marinade:
    • 2 lbs (900 g) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
    • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
    • 2 teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco or Louisiana)
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the coating:
    • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup (30 g) cornstarch
    • 1 tablespoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For frying:
    • Vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill a deep fryer or skillet about 2-3 inches deep)


Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken:
    • In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
  2. Prepare the coating:
    • In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken:
    • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick coating. For an extra-crispy crust, repeat the dredging process by dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
  4. Heat the oil:
    • In a large deep skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the chicken:
    • Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the chicken cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides like biscuits, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

  • For even spicier chicken, add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade and coating.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without over-frying.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.