Popeyes Chicken Sandwich Recipe, Calories & Price [2025]
The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich has become a true game-changer in fast food. Juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor, it’s everything you could want in a sandwich. With its golden fried chicken fillet, soft buttery bun, and creamy sauce, each bite is a perfect mix of crunch, tenderness, and spice.

How Popeyes’ Chicken Sandwich Changed Fast Food
When Popeyes launched its chicken sandwich, it sparked a nationwide craze. Lines wrapped around blocks, social media exploded with reviews, and it quickly became one of the most talked-about fast food items ever. Today, it remains one of the most popular menu choices across Popeyes outlets worldwide.
Calories & Nutrition
| Item | Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 690–750 kcal |
| Serving Size | 1 sandwich |
| Protein | 28–32g |
| Carbs | 48–55g |
| Fat | 35–42g |
Allergens in Popeyes Chicken Sandwich
The sandwich may contain:
- Soy (used in frying oil)
- Milk (from buttermilk batter)
- Wheat (in bun & breading)
- Eggs (in mayonnaise & coating)
Popeyes Chicken Sandwich Recipe (Copycat Version)
Want to enjoy the Popeyes sandwich at home? Here’s a recipe that brings you close to the real deal.
Ingredients
For the Bun
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp bread flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm whole milk
- 3 ¼ cups bread flour
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 egg + 1 yolk
- 3 tbsp butter
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water)
For the Spicy Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped chives
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Crispy Chicken Fillet
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup potato/corn starch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Frying oil
- Dill pickles (for topping)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Buns
- Heat ¼ cup milk and water, whisk in flour until thick (tangzhong starter).
- In a bowl, mix sugar, yeast, and warm milk. Rest for 5–10 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, eggs, and tangzhong. Mix into dough.
- Knead with butter until smooth, rest 1½ hours.
- Divide into 8 balls, proof again 15 minutes.
- Brush with egg wash, bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes until golden.
Spicy Sauce
- Mix mayo with hot sauce, paprika, cayenne, salt, lemon zest, and chives.
- Stir until creamy and slightly pink.
Crispy Chicken
- Flatten chicken breasts to ¾ inch.
- Marinate with pickle juice, buttermilk, and spices (overnight for best results).
- Mix flour, starch, and salt for dredge.
- Coat chicken, fry at 325°F for 3–4 minutes. Rest.
- Re-fry at 375°F until golden and crisp.
Assemble Sandwich
- Spread spicy mayo on both bun halves.
- Add crispy chicken fillet.
- Top with dill pickles.
- Serve hot.
Chicken Sandwich Variations
- Deluxe – Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese for freshness.
- Extra Crispy – Add bacon for a salty crunch.
- Sauce Lovers – Try with BBQ or Ranch for more zing.
Best Sides to Pair With It
- Cajun Fries – Perfectly seasoned and crispy.
- Coleslaw – Refreshing balance to the richness.
- Onion Rings – Sweet, crunchy, and delicious with spicy sauce.
- Popeyes Biscuits – Fluffy, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth good.
FAQs
Q1: What comes on a Popeyes chicken sandwich?
A crispy chicken fillet, pickles, mayo or spicy mayo, and a toasted brioche bun.
Q2: Why is it so popular?
Its crunch, juiciness, and perfect balance of spice make it stand out from competitors.
Q3: How many calories are in one sandwich?
Around 690–750 kcal depending on variant.
Q4: How much does it cost?
Usually $4.49–$5.50 in the U.S., higher in meal combos.
Q5: Is the Popeyes sandwich halal?
Depends on the country and location—always check with your local Popeyes.
Conclusion
The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a fast-food icon. Whether you’re grabbing one at your local Popeyes or recreating it at home with our recipe, you’re guaranteed crispy, juicy perfection in every bite. So next time the craving hits, you know exactly what to order—or how to make it yourself!
