Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers
If you’ve ever treated yourself to the crispy, juicy goodness of Raising Cane’s chicken fingers, you know that no fast-food experience quite compares. But what if I told you that you can recreate that very same mouthwatering delight in the comfort of your own kitchen? With this recipe for Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a batch of these deliciously addictive chicken tenders. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s reminiscent of your favorite chicken spot!
Reasons to Love Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers
– **Crispy Perfection**: The breadcrumb coating gives you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
– **Juicy Inside**: Marinating in buttermilk ensures the chicken remains moist and tender.
– **Customizable Dipping Sauce**: Pair with your favorite sauces for a personalized taste experience.
– **Quick Preparation**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this meal ready in no time!
– **Budget-Friendly**: Making it at home is not only fun but also easier on the wallet compared to eating out.
What’s in the Bowl
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chicken tenders also work)
- 1 cup buttermilk (see note)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- A pinch of kosher salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowls – for marinating and coating the chicken.
- Whisk – to mix the buttermilk and eggs.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Cooking tongs – for easy handling of chicken during frying.
- Cooling rack – to maintain crispiness after frying.
Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers Cooking Guide
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into tenders if you’re using whole breasts. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, Creole seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the ingredients to your taste. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, beat the eggs. In the second bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and white pepper. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess buttermilk to drip off, then dip each piece into the flour mixture, followed by the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for that signature crunch.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully add the chicken fingers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the chicken fingers to a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness. Serve them hot with your prepared dipping sauce and enjoy!
Seasonal Twists
- Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful twist.
- Incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
- Serve with seasonal sides like sweet potato fries or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
- Skipping the marination process: It’s crucial for flavor and tenderness.
- Not properly heating the oil: Ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent greasy chicken.
- Overcrowding the pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs yield the best texture.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Leftover chicken fingers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, maintaining their crispy exterior.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What can I do if my chicken fingers are soggy?
Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Soggy chicken can occur if the oil temperature is too low, causing the chicken to absorb more oil instead of frying quickly.
Can I bake the chicken fingers instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the breaded chicken on a lined baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
How can I make the breading stick better?
Make sure to shake off excess buttermilk before breading. You can also double dip in the egg and breadcrumbs for a thicker coating.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs or even plant-based alternatives can be used. Just adjust cooking times according to the thickness of the pieces.
Desserts to Finish
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat to balance the savory meal.
- Classic Cheesecake – Creamy and rich, the perfect end to your feast.
- No-Bake Vegan Cheesecake – A lighter option for a refreshing finish.
- Ultimate Brownies – Fudgy and decadent, an indulgent treat.
Make It Tonight
With this easy recipe for Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, you can turn your kitchen into a mini chicken joint! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious meal that rivals the beloved fast-food chain. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these chicken fingers are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into tenders if you’re using whole breasts. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, Creole seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the ingredients to your taste. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
- In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, beat the eggs. In the second bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and white pepper. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess buttermilk to drip off, then dip each piece into the flour mixture, followed by the egg wash, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for that signature crunch.
- In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully add the chicken fingers in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken fingers to a cooling rack to maintain their crispiness. Serve them hot with your prepared dipping sauce and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for added fun!
