Copycat Raising Cane's Chicken & Sauce

why make this recipe

Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce brings the restaurant’s beloved flavors right to your kitchen. This recipe gives you crispy, juicy chicken tenders and a delicious creamy sauce to dip them in. It’s perfect for a family meal, a casual gathering, or whenever you crave some comfort food. Making it at home means you can enjoy this tasty dish anytime you want!

how to make Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce

Ingredients :

1 large egg
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
5 tsp. kosher salt, divided
Freshly ground black pepper
2 lb. chicken tenders
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
Vegetable oil for frying (4 to 6 cups)
3/4 cup mayonnaise
3 Tbsp. ketchup
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. onion powder
Crinkle fries for serving

Directions :

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, 2 tsp. of salt, and a few grinds of pepper.
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor.
In a large shallow bowl, whisk the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, a few grinds of pepper, and the remaining 3 tsp. of salt.
Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Toss the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it back into the marinade, and finally toss it in the flour mixture again. Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet.
Fry the chicken in small batches, adjusting the heat to keep the oil at the correct temperature. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to cool slightly.
To make Cane’s Sauce, stir together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and onion powder in a medium bowl.
Serve the chicken on a platter with the sauce and crinkle fries.

how to serve Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce

This dish is best served hot and fresh. Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a plate and serve them with a side of the Cane’s Sauce for dipping. Pair it with crinkle fries for a classic touch. This meal is great for sharing, so gather your friends or family around to enjoy!

how to store Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce

If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. The sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat the chicken, place it in an oven set to 375°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the chicken crispy.

tips to make Copycat Raising Cane’s Chicken & Sauce

For extra crispy chicken, double-dip in the flour mixture and marinade as instructed.
Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature to prevent burning or undercooking the chicken.
Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying to keep it crispy.

variation (if any)

You can try different seasonings in the flour mixture to customize the flavor. Spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian herbs for a twist, can be fun experiments. If you prefer baked chicken, you can bake the coated chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is the sauce spicy?
No, the sauce is mild and creamy. You can add a bit of hot sauce if you like it spicy.

3. Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked chicken tenders. Just make sure they are well-wrapped in freezer-safe bags. Thaw before reheating.