Bojangles' Fried Chicken features hand-battered, crispy golden chicken seasoned with a blend of bold Southern spices, delivering a juicy, flavorful bite with a crunchy, satisfying crust.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large tray or platter
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 3 lbs (1.4kg) bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Your chicken should be bone-in and skin-on to replicate Bojangles' iconic texture and flavor accurately. The buttermilk marinade combined with hot sauce tenderizes the meat while infusing it with a subtle heat. Use a precise blend of spices including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic, onion powders, thyme, and sage to achieve that bold Southern seasoning profile. Combining flour with cornstarch and a small amount of baking powder ensures an extra crispy, golden crust. Bojangles' Fried Chicken from the copycat menu delivers the same juicy, flavorful bite with a crunchy, satisfying crust you love from the original.
Instructions
- Add chicken pieces, buttermilk, and hot sauce to a mixing bowl. Toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, thyme, sage, and baking powder.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Press to coat well.
- Place coated chicken on a rack set over a baking sheet. Let rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Pour enough vegetable oil into the deep fryer (or large pot) to submerge chicken. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Using tongs, carefully add chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Fry chicken for 12–16 minutes (depending on piece size), turning halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer fried chicken to a platter lined with paper towels to drain.
- Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Bojangles' Fried Chicken from the Bojangles copycat menu is known for its hand-battered crispy coating infused with a bold blend of Southern spices. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve similar tenderness in your chicken. Use a deep fryer for consistent heat but a heavy skillet with a few inches of oil can also work if carefully monitored. A meat thermometer is essential to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption without overcooking. When draining your fried chicken, place it on a baking sheet with a rack to keep the crust crispy, and avoid stacking pieces directly on paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Tips
Make sure your oil maintains a steady temperature of 350degF (175degC) to achieve the perfect crispy crust without undercooking the chicken inside. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken's internal temperature hits 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption and juicy results. Letting the coated chicken rest on a rack before frying helps the flour mixture adhere better, resulting in an even crispiness. You should avoid overcrowding the fryer; frying chicken in batches ensures each piece cooks evenly and maintains temperature.
Nutritions
Bojangles' Fried Chicken offers a flavorful protein source from bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and repair. The buttermilk marinade enhances tenderness while adding calcium and vitamins B12 and D. The coating contains paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, which contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, although the frying process increases fat and calorie content due to absorption of vegetable oil. To keep your meal balanced, consider pairing this crispy, spiced chicken with vegetable sides or a fresh salad to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Storage
Store leftover Bojangles' Fried Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain its crispiness and flavor. When reheating, preheat your oven to 375degF (190degC) and place the chicken on a baking sheet with a rack to ensure even heating and preserve the crunchy crust. Your chicken will stay juicy and delicious while avoiding sogginess through this method.
Variation or Alternatives
Try substituting buttermilk with plain yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice for a tangy marinade that tenderizes your chicken similarly. Swap out vegetable oil for peanut oil to achieve a higher smoke point and a slightly nuttier flavor during frying. For an extra crispy crust, double-dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk after the first flour coating and then coating it again with the seasoned flour mixture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked through, avoiding dryness while maintaining juiciness.
Allergies
Bojangles' Fried Chicken contains common allergens such as wheat from the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, which may affect individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The buttermilk used in the marinade poses a risk for those allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant. You should exercise caution if you have allergies to eggs or certain spices, as the seasoning blend includes paprika, garlic, onion, and cayenne pepper, which can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.
Why this recipe?
Bojangles' Fried Chicken menu is loved for its perfectly seasoned, crispy fried chicken that offers a unique blend of Southern spices and bold flavors. The tender, juicy chicken paired with flavorful sides like their famous buttermilk biscuits creates a satisfying and authentic taste experience. You can replicate this beloved recipe at home to enjoy the same delicious, crave-worthy meals while controlling ingredients and customizing spice levels. Making a copycat allows you to savor Bojangles' iconic flavors anytime, providing great value and convenience.