Copycat Popeyes Pickle Sandwich Recipe

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Join me as we delve into the secrets behind the crispy coating, the bold spices, and the simple yet effective tricks that can turn your home into your neighborhood’s newest sandwich hotspot. Let’s begin this flavorful journey to create your Popeyes Pickle Sandwich masterpiece!

What Is Popeyes Pickle Sandwich?

This sandwich consists of a crispy battered chicken fillet glazed with a pickle-flavored sauce, topped with thick-cut pickles, and served on a toasted brioche bun.

Ingredients:

For The Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to about ½ inch thickness for even cooking and maximum juiciness)
• 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking the chicken, ensuring it’s tender and well-marinated)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to season

For The Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for that irresistible crunch)
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (this helps create a light, crispy coating)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For The Assembly:

• Dill pickle slices (the star ingredient that adds the tangy kick)
• Brioche buns (toasted for extra flavor and texture)
• Mayonnaise or a spicy mayo blend, depending on your preference

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour or, for best results, overnight.
2. Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove a piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breading mixture until well coated. For an extra crispy layer, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and then into the flour mix again.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s done (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Transfer to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
5. Assemble the Sandwich: Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread your chosen mayo or spicy mayo on the bottom bun. Place the fried chicken on top, followed by a generous layer of pickle slices. Cap it with the top bun.

Tips For The Perfect Popeyes Pickle Sandwich:

• Pounding the Chicken: Ensuring the chicken is an even thickness helps it cook evenly and tenderizes it, creating the perfect base for your sandwich.
• Double-Dipping: For those who desire an extra crispy coating, don’t hesitate to double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture. This builds up layers that crisp up beautifully when fried.
• The Right Temperature: It is crucial to maintain the oil at the correct temperature. Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside is done; too cool, and your chicken absorbs excess oil, becoming greasy.
• Resting the Chicken: Instead of paper towels, let the chicken rest on a wire rack. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy and keeps the crust crispy.
• Customization: Don’t be afraid to make this sandwich your own. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, or add a slice of your favorite cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

What To Serve With

Classic Southern Sides:

• Cajun Fries: For a spicy kick, pair your Popeyes pickle sandwich with homemade Cajun-seasoned fries. Slice up some potatoes, season with Cajun spices, and bake or fry until golden and crispy.
• Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy nature of coleslaw balances the spicy and savory notes of the sandwich. Plus, it adds a fresh crunch that’s hard to resist.
• Baked Beans: A side of sweet and smoky baked beans makes for a hearty addition, offering a side dish with depth that stands up to the bold flavors of the sandwich.

Lighter Options:

• Pickled Vegetables: If you love the tanginess of the pickles in the sandwich, why not extend that flavor profile with a side of assorted pickled vegetables like carrots, onions, and cucumbers?
• Garden Salad: Opt for a light, refreshing garden salad with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the fried chicken. Include fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a healthy and balanced side.

Comforting Additions:

• Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs delightfully with the crispy chicken sandwich for a truly indulgent meal.
• Cornbread: Serve up a slice of moist cornbread on the side. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs well with the savory sandwich, a staple in Southern cuisine.

Drinks:

• Iced Tea: A glass of sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a Southern staple that provides a refreshing beverage to complement any spicy meal.
• Lemonade: Homemade lemonade, whether classic or spiked for adults, provides a sweet and tart balance that cuts through the sandwich’s richness.

Desserts:

• Pecan Pie: After the savory delight of a Popeyes Pickle Sandwich, a slice of pecan pie offers a sweet and nutty close to the meal.
• Peach Cobbler: Serve up some warm peach cobbler and perhaps a scoop of vanilla ice cream to end on a sweet note that echoes the comforts of Southern cooking.

Health Benefits

• Probiotics in Pickles: If the pickles used in the sandwich are naturally fermented, they can contain probiotics that help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This could contribute to improved digestive health and a strengthened immune system.
• Low-Calorie Option: Pickles are low in calories, adding flavor and texture to the sandwich without significantly increasing the calorie count. Please note, though, that the chicken and buns contribute more calories, so the sandwich overall is not necessarily low-calorie.
• Hydration and Electrolytes: Pickles contain water and electrolytes like sodium, which can help you stay hydrated. These electrolytes are vital for maintaining fluid balance and can be helpful for rehydration after exercise.

Final Thoughts

While the Popeyes Pickle Sandwich may not be heralded as a beacon of health food, the occasional indulgence in such delectable pleasures often brings unmatched joy to our meals. The delight of sinking your teeth into that perfect blend of textures and flavors is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that invokes the comfort of Southern hospitality and the zest of Louisiana spice.

More Carb Recipes:

• Buldak Ramen Recipe
• Copycat Ina Garten’s One-Pot Pasta Recipe
• Mochi With Sweet Filling Recipe