Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

Love Popeye’s Chicken Tenders? This homemade copycat recipe captures that signature spicy flavor and crispy coating you crave. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy dinner at home, these tenders are marinated to perfection and fried to golden bliss. You’ll love their juicy texture and the satisfying crunch that makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up these tenders without fuss.
• Flavorful Kick: The combination of buttermilk and Creole seasoning gives a unique zest.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course with your favorite sides.
• Perfect for Dipping: Pair with sauces like honey mustard or ranch for extra flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Popeye’s Chicken Tenders, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large ziplock bag
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Deep fryer or large pot
• Wire rack or paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large ziplock bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for preparing batters and dry mixtures separately.
• Deep fryer or large pot: Ensures even cooking and proper temperature control for crispy tenders.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup hot sauce
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• ½ tsp MSG (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• ½ tsp MSG (optional)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup flour
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• 1+ cup club soda

How to Make Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add the chicken strips into a large ziplock bag.
2. Pour in buttermilk, hot sauce, 1 tablespoon of Creole seasoning, and optional MSG. Seal the bag and massage the chicken until well coated.
3. Marinate for at least 4 hours, up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Mixture

1. In a large dish, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and remaining Creole seasoning.
2. Whisk thoroughly to ensure an even blend.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Batter

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and club soda until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Lightly coat each chicken piece with the dry mixture first for a base layer.
2. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture, then coat again in the dry dredge for extra crunch.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add coated chicken tenders into hot oil.
3. Fry for about 8–10 minutes until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Drain and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from oil using tongs; let it drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.

Enjoy your homemade Popeye’s Chicken Tenders fresh from the fryer!

How to Serve Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

Serving Popeye’s Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable. These tenders are versatile and pair well with various dips and sides, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the spicy flavor of the chicken.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a rich taste that balances the heat of the tenders.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love extra spice, buffalo sauce provides a fiery kick.
• Barbecue Sauce: Smoky barbecue sauce brings a delicious depth to the meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Caesar Salad: Tossed greens with Caesar dressing create a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw complements the crispy texture of the tenders beautifully.

In a Sandwich

• Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place tenders in a bun with lettuce and tomato for an easy-to-eat meal.
• Wrap It Up: Use tortillas to create a tasty wrap filled with chicken, veggies, and your favorite sauce.

How to Perfect Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

Creating perfect Popeye’s Chicken Tenders at home is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips to achieve that signature flavor and crispiness.

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Double Dredge: Coating in both dry mixture and wet batter gives you that extra crispy crust everyone loves.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350°F is crucial for achieving golden-brown tenders without being greasy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and seasonings will enhance the final dish significantly.
• Rest After Frying: Letting the chicken rest on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing excess oil to drain away.

Best Side Dishes for Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with your Popeye’s Chicken Tenders can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fries: Crispy French fries are a classic companion that everyone enjoys. Consider seasoning them with Cajun spices for added flavor.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and pairs well with the tender chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, adding freshness to your meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative that adds sweetness and crunch, perfect for dipping.
5. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans provide richness that complements the spicy flavors of the chicken.
6. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes can balance out the meal nicely.
7. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside juicy chicken tenders.
8. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can add variety and freshness to your plate, making it perfect for warm days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Popeye’s Chicken Tenders can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Bold Marinating Time: Not marinating long enough can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you marinate for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight for maximum flavor.

• Bold Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature can result in soggy tenders. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F for a perfect golden crust.

• Bold Skipping the Dry Dredge: Failing to coat the chicken in the dry mixture before the wet batter can affect texture. Always dredge first for that signature crispiness.

• Bold Overcrowding the Fryer: Placing too many tenders in the fryer at once lowers oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets evenly cooked and crispy.

• Bold Using Old Ingredients: Expired spices or flour can diminish flavor. Always check freshness before starting your recipe for the best results.

• Bold Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

• Place fully cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals, checking frequently. This method may not retain crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Popeye’s Chicken Tenders that might help enhance your cooking experience:

How do I make my Popeye’s Chicken Tenders spicier?

To increase spice, add more hot sauce during marination or incorporate cayenne pepper into your dry dredge mix.

Can I bake Popeye’s Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier option, bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy, turning halfway through.

What dipping sauces pair well with Popeye’s Chicken Tenders?

Popular choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Are Popeye’s Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

Popeye’s Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize spices and dips according to your taste! Give this homemade recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Popeye’s Chicken Tenders

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Satisfy your cravings for crispy and flavorful Popeye’s Chicken Tenders right at home with this easy copycat recipe. These homemade chicken strips are marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is tender and juicy on the inside while boasting a perfectly crunchy coating outside. Ideal for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner, these tenders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch, or serve them alongside classic sides for a complete meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• Club soda
• 1 tbsp Creole seasoning
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1+ cup club soda
• ½ tsp MSG (optional)

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Instructions

1. 1. Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasoning for at least 4 hours.
2. 2. Combine flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and seasoning in a dish.
3. 3. Whisk eggs and club soda in another bowl.
4. 4. Coat chicken first in the dry mixture, then dip in egg mixture before dredging again in the dry mix.
5. 5. Fry in heated oil until golden brown and cooked through.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 pieces (170g)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: For extra spiciness, increase the amount of hot sauce or add cayenne pepper to the dry mixture. Bake instead of frying by placing coated tenders on a baking sheet and cooking at 400°F for about 25 minutes.