Are you tired of making do with mediocre chicken dishes at home? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering copycat chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From crispy fried chicken to juicy grilled breasts, we’ve got the best of the best right here.
From beloved fast food chains like Chick-fil-A and Popeyes to family favorites like Cracker Barrel and Olive Garden, our list features a range of copycat recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank or sacrifice flavor for convenience. With these 20 delicious copycat chicken recipes, you can indulge in your favorite takeout flavors without ever leaving home.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into our list of mouthwatering copycat chicken recipes and get ready to shake up your meal routine with some serious flavor!
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
Get the taste of Chick-fil-A’s iconic chicken sandwich at home with this easy-to-make copycat recipe. Tender and juicy chicken, crispy breading, and a hint of pickle flavor will have you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 pickle slices, thinly sliced
– Breaded buns and lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and crispy.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried chicken on buns, topping with pickle slices, lettuce leaves, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Copycat KFC Original Fried Chicken
Get ready to taste the iconic flavor of KFC’s original fried chicken at home! This recipe is a perfect replica of the classic recipe, with a secret blend of herbs and spices that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic salt
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic salt, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Copycat Popeyes Spicy Chicken Tenders
Get the authentic taste of Popeyes’ famous spicy chicken tenders at home with this easy recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying finger-lickin’ good tenders in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Copycat Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make copycat recipe of Zaxby’s famous chicken fingers! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy the same crispy, juicy goodness in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into finger-shaped strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry chicken fingers for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Experience the flavors of Buffalo Wild Wings at home with this simple recipe that replicates their iconic Garlic Parmesan Chicken wings. With a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy, savory chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken strips into the flour mixture, then panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle melted butter and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Satisfy your cravings with this beloved restaurant’s iconic dish, now easily replicable at home. Tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, flavorful broth will transport you to the heart of Southern hospitality.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add garlic, chicken broth, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings have risen to the surface.
4. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, indulgent copycat recipe inspired by Olive Garden’s famous Chicken Alfredo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
Recreate the popular Chinese-American dish at home with this simple recipe that captures the flavors of Panda Express’ iconic Orange Chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until coated.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same wok or skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add orange marmalade, soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the wok. Stir until combined.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the wok and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken Tenders
Bring the flavors of Raising Cane’s home with this easy-to-make copycat recipe for chicken tenders. Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in that signature secret sauce – your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Secret Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Fry coated tenders in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Secret Sauce (see below).
Secret Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Copycat Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken
This copycat recipe brings the bold and spicy flavors of Nando’s famous Peri-Peri Chicken to your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy this mouth-watering dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup Peri-Peri sauce (or substitute with a similar hot sauce)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and Peri-Peri sauce.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Copycat McDonald’s McChicken Sandwich
Recreate the classic McChicken sandwich from the comfort of your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the same great taste and texture as the original.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried chicken on hamburger buns and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Copycat Boston Market Rotisserie Chicken
Get ready to experience the authentic flavor of Boston Market’s famous rotisserie chicken at home. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying juicy, tender, and mouthwatering chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, quartered (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan or large baking dish.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Copycat Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl
Recreate the flavors of Chipotle’s famous burrito bowl at home with this easy recipe. This copycat version combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and crunchy veggies in a delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
– Salsa, shredded cheese, and cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Marinate chicken in lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Heat bell peppers in a skillet with a little oil until tender.
6. Assemble bowls by placing chicken, rice, bell peppers, and black beans in each bowl.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Copycat TGI Fridays Cajun Chicken Pasta
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic pasta with this copycat recipe inspired by TGI Fridays’ iconic Cajun Chicken Pasta. This dish combines spicy kick, rich flavors, and satisfying textures in just one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) until cooked through.
3. Add butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Copycat TGI Fridays Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Copycat P.F. Chang’s Kung Pao Chicken
This recipe brings the bold flavors of P.F. Chang’s famous dish to your own kitchen, with crispy chicken, peanuts, and a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In same skillet, add garlic, ginger, peanuts, and scallions. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soy sauce, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional peanuts and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Copycat El Pollo Loco Grilled Chicken
Get the authentic taste of El Pollo Loco’s grilled chicken at home with this easy-to-make copycat recipe. Marinated to perfection, these juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a tangy and slightly sweet glaze that will transport your taste buds to California.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and soy sauce.
7. Brush glaze over chicken during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Copycat Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Recreate the classic fast food favorite at home with this simple and flavorful copycat recipe. This spicy chicken sandwich is a staple of many, and now you can make it in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Soft bun and lettuce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Serve on a soft bun with lettuce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Grilled BBQ Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering copycat recipe of Texas Roadhouse’s famous grilled BBQ chicken, featuring tender and juicy chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Texas Roadhouse-style or your favorite brand)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Copycat Outback Steakhouse Alice Springs Chicken
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Australia with this mouthwatering copycat recipe of Outback Steakhouse’s iconic Alice Springs Chicken. This dish is a game-changer, combining crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy honey mustard sauce on top of juicy chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, honey, Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the mixture.
4. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese (if using) and cooked bacon on top of each breast.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Chicken
Get ready to taste the magic of Red Lobster’s famous Cheddar Bay Chicken at home! This copycat recipe brings together the perfect blend of crispy, buttery goodness and creamy cheddar flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together softened butter, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the best of the fast food world with these 20 delicious copycat chicken recipes that everyone loves! From Chick-fil-A’s signature sandwich to Popeyes’ spicy tenders, and from KFC’s original fried chicken to Olive Garden’s creamy Alfredo sauce, this collection of recipes has got you covered. With a variety of flavors and cooking methods, there’s something for every taste bud. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy your favorite restaurant dishes at home!
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