Making the Popeye’s Chicken Sandwich involves a few straightforward steps that are easy to follow:

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Flour Mixture: In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring even coverage.
4. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in vegetable oil to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the hot oil. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, remove the chicken pieces and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
7. Toast Buns: Optionally, place the sandwich buns in the skillet for a minute or two to toast them lightly.
8. Assemble Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place the fried chicken breast on top, followed by dill pickles and lettuce if using. Cover with the top half of the bun.
9. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious Popeye’s Chicken Sandwich while it’s still crispy!