Easy Copycat Popeyes Blackened Chicken Sandwich Recipe
This Easy Copycat Popeyes Blackened Chicken Sandwich is bursting with bold Cajun flavors and crispy juicy chicken on buttery brioche buns.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Knife
Ingredients
Brine
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 cups water
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons McCormick Cajun Seasoning
For Cooking and Assembly
- 2 teaspoons softened butter for spreading on the buns
- 2 brioche buns
- 4 tablespoons olive oil for frying the chicken
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sliced dill pickles
Instructions
Brining the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of water, 1/4 cup of kosher salt, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir until dissolved. Add chicken breasts and soak for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Chicken
- Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Rub each breast evenly with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot and sizzling.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook 6-7 minutes on one side until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Preparing the Buns
- Spread 1 teaspoon of softened butter on the cut sides of brioche buns. Toast buns on a pan or grill until golden and slightly crispy.
Assembling the Sandwich
- Spread 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise on each bun. Place the cooked chicken breast on the bottom bun, add sliced dill pickles on top, then cover with the top bun.
Serving
- Slice the sandwich in half if desired and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Brine the chicken for at least 30 minutes for maximum juiciness and flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook chicken in batches if necessary to keep it crispy.
- Spread butter on the buns before toasting to add flavor and prevent sogginess.
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to redistribute juices.
- Customize with seasonal toppings like fresh tomatoes, arugula, or spicy slaw.