Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers

If you’re a fan of crispy, golden chicken fingers, then you’ve likely tasted the deliciousness that is Raising Cane’s. Their chicken fingers are known for their crunchy exterior and juicy interior, making them a hit among chicken lovers everywhere. But what if you could recreate that magic right in your own kitchen? Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy this iconic dish anytime you crave it!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe is a keeper for so many reasons! First, it’s incredibly simple, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Second, the flavor is spot on—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, just like the real deal. Plus, you can customize the dipping sauces to suit your tastes. Whether you love classic ketchup or a zesty homemade mayo, this recipe is versatile enough to satisfy any palate. And let’s not forget about the joy of cooking at home, where you can control every ingredient!

Ingredient Checklist

• 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
• ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Pinch kosher salt
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Must-Have Equipment

• Large bowl: For marinating the chicken in buttermilk.
• Deep frying pot or skillet: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Whisk: For mixing your batter and sauces.
• Cooking tongs: For flipping chicken fingers without losing that coveted breading.
• Cooling rack: To keep your chicken fingers crispy as they cool.

Cooking Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers: The Process

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating your chicken in buttermilk. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Add the chicken breasts or tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight. This step helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare your dipping sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup ketchup, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning. Adjust the ingredients to taste, and set aside.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs. In the second bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon white pepper. Finally, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs in the third bowl.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dip each piece first into the egg mixture, then coat it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully covered. Shake off any excess flour before dipping it back into the egg, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

In a deep frying pot or large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken fingers to a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your homemade dipping sauce and enjoy your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers!

If You’re Out Of…

• Buttermilk: You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but for extra crunch, consider crushing some cornflakes or using crushed crackers.
• Creole seasoning: A mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano can create a similar flavor profile.
• Vegetable oil: Canola oil or peanut oil are excellent alternatives for frying.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

To ensure your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcrowding the frying pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain the heat.
• Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to dry, flavorless meat. Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best.
• Not allowing the oil to heat properly can cause the breading to absorb too much oil. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
• Using old oil can lead to off-flavors. Make sure your oil is fresh for the best taste.

Storage Pro Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here are some storage tips:

• Store cooked chicken fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
• For longer storage, freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken fingers on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the frying time.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier flavor, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a little longer to cook through.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken fingers?

In addition to the mayo-ketchup sauce, consider serving with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick!

Can I bake these chicken fingers instead of frying?

Yes! For a healthier version, place the breaded chicken fingers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these chicken fingers gluten-free without compromising on flavor!

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Easy Chicken Tacos
• Quick Beef Stir-Fry
• One-Pan Pasta
• Vegetable Fried Rice

Bring It Home

With this Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant in the comfort of your home. Not only is it a fun cooking project, but it also brings everyone together for a delicious meal. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a game day feast, these chicken fingers are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fry up some magic. You’ll never want to order takeout again!