Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers

If you’ve ever craved the crispy, tender goodness of Raising Cane’s chicken fingers but didn’t want to make the trip to the nearest location, you’re in luck! This Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe brings the flavor of that beloved fast-food dish right to your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can recreate those iconic chicken fingers that are sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the world of homemade fried chicken perfection!

Top Reasons to Make Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers

• Flavorful Experience: Enjoy that irresistible taste of crispy chicken fingers without leaving your home.
• Customizable: Tailor the seasoning and dipping sauces to your personal preference.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These chicken fingers are a hit at parties, game days, or family dinners.
• Cost-Effective: Save money by making a large batch at home instead of purchasing them from a restaurant.
• Fun Cooking Activity: Cooking with family or friends can turn into a memorable experience.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chicken tenders also work)
• 1 cup buttermilk (see note)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ 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
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Must-Have Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken in buttermilk.
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
• Whisk: Helpful for mixing the egg wash and dry ingredients.
• Wire Rack: Ideal for draining excess oil from the fried chicken.

Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers: How It’s Done

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into strips or use chicken tenders. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken marinates, you can prepare the dipping sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, ground black pepper, Creole seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Set Up a Breading Station

In three shallow dishes, set up your breading station. In the first dish, beat the eggs. In the second dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground white pepper. In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Take each piece and coat it first in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is thoroughly covered at each step for maximum crunch!

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, being careful 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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once fried, transfer the chicken fingers to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your homemade dipping sauce and enjoy the deliciousness of your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers!

Year-Round Variations

• Spicy Chicken Fingers: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
• Herb-Infused Chicken: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
• Buffalo Chicken Fingers: Toss the fried chicken in buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
• Chicken Sandwich: Serve the chicken fingers on a bun with lettuce and tomato for a delicious sandwich.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade: Don’t skip marinating the chicken; it’s crucial for tenderness and flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.
• Inaccurate Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure oil is at the right temperature for frying.
• Not Draining Properly: Allow chicken to drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken fingers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispiness compared to microwaving.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and breading. This will ensure even cooking.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Absolutely! While vegetable oil is great, you can also use oils with high smoke points like canola oil or peanut oil for frying.

How do I make sure my chicken fingers are crispy?

Ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying and allow the chicken to drain on a wire rack after frying. This prevents steam from making them soggy.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Quick Chicken Tenders – A faster version for busy nights.
• Easy Chicken Strips – A simple, no-fuss recipe.
• Oven-Baked Chicken Fingers – A healthier take on the classic.
• Buffalo Chicken Fingers – For those who love a spicy kick!

In Closing

If you’ve been searching for a way to bring the taste of Raising Cane’s chicken fingers into your home, this Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe is your answer. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or a late-night snack, they will surely become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the satisfying crunch of homemade chicken fingers today!