2large piecesBoneless, Skinless Chicken BreastsEach piece should be about 6-8 ounces.
Marinade
1cupButtermilkCan substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
2tablespoonsHot SauceChoose your favorite brand.
Dredging Mixture
1cupAll-Purpose FlourFor dredging the chicken.
1/4cupCornstarchAdds extra crispiness.
1teaspoonGarlic Powder
1teaspoonOnion Powder
1teaspoonSalt
1/2teaspoonPepperFreshly ground.
Frying
2-3cupsVegetable OilFor frying, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
Assembly
2piecesBrioche BunsSoft and slightly sweet.
4-6slicesPicklesUse dill pickles for tanginess.
2tablespoonsMayonnaiseCan use spicy mayonnaise for extra kick.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Dredging Mixture: In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Dredge the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken, let excess marinade drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to coat thoroughly.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Drain the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels.
Toast the Buns: Slice the brioche buns in half and toast the cut sides in a skillet until golden brown.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a piece of fried chicken on top, followed by pickles. Top with the other half of the bun.
Serve and Enjoy: Your Popeye’s Chicken Sandwich is ready! Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
For variations, consider adding spicy slaw, different sauces, or cheese. Pair with sides like fries or a salad.