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popeyes spicy chicken sandwich recipe

Popeyes Spicy Chicken Sandwich Recipe

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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (divided)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp white pepper
  • Neutral oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
  • 2 brioche buns
  • 8 dill pickle chips
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tsp honey

Method
 

  1. Combine the 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp hot sauce, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder in a bowl. Add the 2 chicken thighs and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Whisk together the 1 cup flour, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp smoked paprika, remaining 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp white pepper in a wide shallow bowl.
  3. Remove each thigh from the brine, dredge firmly in the flour mixture, and rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy pan, fry each thigh for 6 to 7 minutes per side until deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), then transfer to a wire rack.
  5. Stir together the 3 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tsp honey, spread on both bun halves, layer 4 pickle chips on the bottom bun, place the fried chicken on top, and serve immediately with the sandwich layers facing up.

Notes

These sandwiches are best eaten right after assembly. If you're cooking for more than 2 people, keep finished chicken pieces on a wire rack in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you fry the remaining pieces; they'll hold for up to 15 minutes without losing too much crunch. The spicy mayo recipe above makes enough for 4 sandwiches, so you can double the chicken and coating without adjusting it.