Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe

This copycat Bojangles fried chicken recipe captures everything you know and love about the famous Southern-fried chicken. It's extra crispy and crunchy with juicy, marinated meat with a one-of-a-kind flavor. 

A Spot On Copycat Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe

Bojangles fried chicken has always been my favorite fast-food fried chicken to get. I think its perfect blend of crunch and spice is unmatched, so whenever I'm in an area with a Bojangles, I take advantage of it.

Since there are no Bojangles where I live, I had to recreate their famous crispy fried chicken at home. After trying a bunch of different versions, I’m thrilled with how this copycat recipe replicates that iconic crispy texture and flavor. The buttermilk and hot sauce marinade make each bite juicy, while the seasoned flour mix delivers just the right kick.

It’s become a go-to recipe whenever I’m craving authentic fried chicken, and this is one of those recipes that always impresses when it's served at gatherings. My best friend and his wife are obsessed with this chicken, so I'm always making it when they come over for dinner.

Ingredients Needed

For The Chicken Marinade:

• 1-2 lbs bone-in chicken (wings, legs, or thighs)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoon hot sauce

For The Seasoned Flour:

• 1 ⅓ cup self-raising flour
• 2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For The Wet Batter:

• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup seasoned flour
• ¼ cup buttermilk marinade

How to Make Bojangles Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl, then submerge the chicken pieces in it. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate and tenderize the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare Seasoned Flour and Wet Batter

In a deep dish, combine all the seasoned flour ingredients. That will be the salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

For the wet batter, mix ⅓ cup of the seasoned flour you just mixed, ¼ cup of the buttermilk marinade, and the eggs in a large bowl. Whisk well until everything combines.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, then dip it in the wet batter, and dredge again in the seasoned flour for a double coating. This is what makes the chicken extra crispy!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Now heat frying oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels. Then serve hot with your favorite sides!

Expert Tips for This Recipe 

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Marinating longer—up to 4 hours or overnight—deepens the flavor and ensures extra tender chicken.
• Double Dredge for Crunch: The double coating of flour and wet batter is key to achieving Bojangles’ signature crispiness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the oil is at 350°F and check that the internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F to avoid undercooking.
• Avoid Overcrowding The Pan: Fry in batches to prevent the oil from cooling, which ensures evenly crispy chicken.
• Rest After Frying: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes helps the crust stay crispy, and will allow the chicken to retain it's juiciness.

Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs

Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken breasts or tenders work well but adjust the cooking time since they cook faster.

What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil works well due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes on a wire rack or until golden and fully cooked, though it won’t be as crispy.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven on a wire rack or air fryer at 400F for about 10 minutes to maintain the crispiness.

What are some good side dishes for Bojangles fried chicken?

I love serving this Bojangles fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a complete Southern meal! However, I HAVE to recommend making this copycat Bojangles biscuit recipe to go with the chicken. Because, I mean, how could I not.

More Copycat Recipes To Try Next

• Chicken Big Mac
• Dave's hot chicken
• Popeyes Fried Chicken
• Church's chicken
• Raising Cane's chicken and sauce
• Popeye's chicken tenders