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DIY Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

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This DIY Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor—featuring a crunchy seasoned coating, buttery brioche buns, tangy pickles, and a creamy, spicy mayo. It’s a fast-food favorite made even better at home.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved and pounded evenly
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 2–4 brioche buns
  • 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
  • Dill pickle slices
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1–2 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  2. Mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
  3. Remove chicken from marinade, dredge in flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Let rest 10 minutes.
  4. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (165°F internally).
  5. Drain chicken on a wire rack.
  6. In a small bowl, mix mayo, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using) to make spicy mayo.
  7. Butter and toast brioche buns in a skillet until golden.
  8. Assemble sandwich: spread spicy mayo on both bun halves, add fried chicken and pickle slices, then top with bun.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Add coleslaw or cheese for variation.
  • Can be baked or air-fried as a lighter option.
  • Reheat chicken in air fryer or oven at 375°F to maintain crispiness.
  • Make spicy mayo ahead—it keeps for up to a week in the fridge.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/diy-popeyes-chicken-sandwich/