Name: Popeye's Blackened Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1/4 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 4 brioche buns; Dill pickles; Mayonnaise; Cajun spread (optional)

Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich — Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with Popeye’s newest creation.

This mouthwatering sandwich features a succulent blackened chicken breast, perfectly seasoned with bold spices and perfectly cooked. Nestled between two soft brioche buns, you’ll find a medley of crisp pickles, creamy mayo, and zesty Cajun spread that combine to create an explosion of taste in every bite.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy delights or crave a delicious, hearty meal, Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich will satisfy your taste buds. Join us on a culinary adventure that combines the rich heritage of Cajun flavors with the convenience of fast-food dining. Discover why this sandwich has become a favorite among food enthusiasts everywhere.

Stay tuned for more details and a closer look at what makes Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich a must-try menu item! 🌶️🍗🔥

What Is Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich Recipe

The Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich is a popular menu item offered by Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its Southern-style fried chicken and Cajun-inspired cuisine. The Blackened Chicken Sandwich features several key components:

Blackened Chicken Breast: The sandwich star is a boneless, skinless chicken breast seasoned with bold spices and blackened to perfection. Blackening involves coating the chicken with a flavorful spice mixture and cooking until it forms a flavorful crust with a smoky kick.
Brioche Bun: The blackened chicken breast is typically served in a soft and slightly sweet bun. Brioche buns are known for their buttery, rich flavor and tender texture.
Pickles: The sandwich is often garnished with crisp dill pickles. The acidity and crunch of the pickles provide a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the blackened chicken.
Mayonnaise: A creamy mayonnaise-based sauce is commonly spread on the bun to add a touch of richness and coolness to balance the heat of the blackened chicken.
Cajun Spread: Some sandwich versions include a zesty Cajun spread or sauce that adds an extra layer of flavor and a bit of heat.

The combination of the spicy blackened chicken, the sweetness of the brioche bun, the tanginess of the pickles, and the creamy sauces creates a delicious and satisfying sandwich that has gained a following among fans of bold and flavorful cuisine.

Please note that specific ingredients and variations may vary depending on the restaurant’s menu and regional preferences. If you’re interested in making a Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich at home, you can look for copycat recipes that attempt to recreate the flavors of this popular fast-food item.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Bold and Spicy Flavor: The blackened chicken breast is seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices that give it a smoky, spicy, and savory taste. If you enjoy dishes with a kick of heat and a depth of flavor, you’ll appreciate the boldness of this sandwich.
Tender and Juicy Chicken: The chicken breast is typically cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy interior with a crispy, flavorful exterior. The contrast in textures makes each bite satisfying.
Buttery Brioche Bun: The choice of a brioche bun adds a touch of sweetness and richness to the sandwich. Brioche buns are known for their softness and buttery flavor, making them an excellent complement to spicy chicken.
Pickles for Balance: Adding dill pickles provides a refreshing and crunchy element that balances the chicken’s spiciness. The pickles’ tangy and slightly sour flavor contrasts nicely with the heat.
Customizable: You can often customize your sandwich with condiments and toppings to suit your preferences. You can make it your own if you like it with extra mayo, a Cajun spread, or other additions.
Satisfying Fast Food: If you’re a fan of fast-food classics, Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich offers a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional chicken sandwich.

Ingredients Needed For Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich

The ingredients for Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich come together to create a bold and flavorful fast-food favorite. With a perfectly seasoned and blackened chicken breast, a soft brioche bun, tangy pickles, and creamy condiments, this sandwich offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that many enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of spicy cuisine or crave a delicious and indulgent meal, this sandwich will surely delight your taste buds.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Chicken Breast: You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the main protein for the sandwich.
Blackening Seasoning: A flavorful blend of spices, including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano, is used to season and blacken the chicken.
Brioche Bun: A soft and slightly sweet brioche bun is typically used as the sandwich’s base.
Dill Pickles: Crisp dill pickle slices add a tangy and crunchy element to the sandwich.
Mayonnaise: Creamy mayonnaise is often spread on the bun to provide richness and moisture.
Cajun Spread (Optional): Some sandwich versions include a zesty Cajun-inspired spread or sauce for added flavor and heat.

How To Make Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich -3 Methods, Blackstone Griddle, Air Fryer, and Skillet

Method 1: Blackstone Griddle

Preheat your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts generously with the blackening seasoning on both sides.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the griddle and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they are fully cooked and have a blackened appearance.
While the chicken is cooking, toast the brioche buns on the griddle until they are lightly browned.
Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise and Cajun spread (if using) on the toasted buns. Add a slice of dill pickle on the bottom bun.
Place the blackened chicken breast on top of the pickles, and then add the top bun.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Method 2: Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts generously with the blackening seasoning on both sides.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
Air fry the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a blackened appearance.
While the chicken is cooking, toast the brioche buns in a toaster or on a griddle until they are lightly browned.
Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise and Cajun spread (if using) on the toasted buns. Add a slice of dill pickle on the bottom bun.
Place the blackened chicken breast on top of the pickles, and then add the top bun.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Method 3: Skillet

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts generously with the blackening seasoning on both sides.
Add a bit of oil to the skillet, and then add the seasoned chicken breasts.
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they are fully cooked and have a blackened appearance.
While the chicken is cooking, toast the brioche buns in a toaster or on another skillet until they are lightly browned.
Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise and Cajun spread (if using) on the toasted buns. Add a slice of dill pickle on the bottom bun.
Place the blackened chicken breast on top of the pickles, and then add the top bun.
Serve hot and enjoy!

These methods allow you to enjoy the delicious Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich at home with your preferred cooking equipment. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips For Making Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich

Here are some pro tips for making a delicious copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich:

Marinate the Chicken: Before applying the blackened seasoning, marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.
Uniform Chicken Thickness: Try to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and are not too thick for the sandwich.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the blackened seasoning. Coat the chicken breasts generously and press the seasoning onto the meat to create a flavorful crust.
Use a Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Fry at the Right Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) while frying. Using a thermometer helps in keeping the oil at the correct temperature.
Drain Excess Oil: After frying the chicken, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep the sandwich from becoming too greasy.
Toast the Buns: Toast the brioche buns until they are lightly browned. This step adds a nice texture to the sandwich.
Add Cajun Spread: If you like an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a Cajun spread to the sandwich. You can make your own or use store-bought Cajun sauce.
Serve Hot: The sandwich is best enjoyed right after assembly while the chicken is still hot and crispy.
Pair with Pickles: Dill pickles add a tangy and crunchy contrast to the spicy chicken. Don’t skip them!

Following these pro tips, you can create a copycat of Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich that’s flavorful, crispy, and satisfying. Enjoy your homemade sandwich!

Faq’s

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer. Thighs will have a slightly different texture and flavor than breasts, but they can work well for this sandwich.

What type of oil should I use for frying the chicken? For frying, You can use vegetable, peanut, or canola oil. Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken.

Can I make the blackened seasoning milder or spicier? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and other spices in the blackened seasoning to control the level of spiciness to your preference. For a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper; for more heat, increase it.

How do I make the Cajun spread for the sandwich? Mix mayonnaise with Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and a dash of lemon juice to make a Cajun spread. Adjust the ingredients to taste, and add a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Can I make the chicken in an air fryer instead of frying it in oil? You can make the chicken in an air fryer for a healthier option. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What are some side dishes that go well with this sandwich? Some great side dishes to pair with the Copycat Popeye’s Blackened Chicken Sandwich include coleslaw, french fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.

Can I make the blackened seasoning in advance and store it for later use? Yes, you can prepare the blackened seasoning in advance and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for several weeks, and you can use it for other recipes.

How do I reheat leftover chicken to keep it crispy? To reheat leftover chicken and maintain its crispiness, use an oven or toaster oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until warmed.

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