If you’ve ever found yourself craving those crispy, juicy chicken fingers from Raising Cane’s, you’re not alone. With their signature flavor and perfectly seasoned breading, it’s no wonder they’ve garnered a fanbase. But what if you could recreate that deliciousness right in your own kitchen? That’s where this Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe comes in. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy these mouthwatering chicken fingers anytime you want.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

The beauty of this Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe is its simplicity and the incredible flavor it brings to your table. Not only do you get that satisfying crunch, but the buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family dinner, or just indulging yourself on a lazy weekend, these chicken fingers will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, the homemade dipping sauce is the perfect complement, elevating your chicken finger experience to a whole new level.

What Goes Into Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers

To create your own Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (chicken tenders also work)
1 cup buttermilk (see note)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup ketchup
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
Pinch 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
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs

Appliances & Accessories

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the breading.
Whisk: To combine the wet ingredients smoothly.
Frying pan or deep fryer: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Cooking tongs: For safe handling of the hot chicken fingers.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Cook Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into strips if using whole breasts. Place them in a large mixing bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to ensure all chicken pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, Creole seasoning, and a pinch of kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Set the sauce aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, beat the two large eggs. In the second bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground white pepper. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Take each piece out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. First, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for that signature crunch!

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small piece of bread in; if it bubbles and turns golden brown, your oil is ready.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Fingers

Carefully place a few chicken fingers in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the crispy goodness with your favorite sides or all on their own!

Year-Round Variations

Looking to mix things up? Consider these variations:

Spicy Chicken Fingers: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a kick.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Fingers: Toss the cooked chicken in melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
BBQ Chicken Fingers: Brush cooked chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned cooks can make errors when making Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers. Here are a few to watch out for:

Skipping the marinade: Marinating is key for juicy chicken. Don’t rush this step!
Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.
Not allowing oil to heat: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding chicken to prevent greasy results.
Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs yield the best crunch, so ensure they are not past their prime.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Want to prepare your Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers in advance? Here’s how:

Marinate the chicken: You can marinate the chicken overnight to save time on the cooking day.
Freeze uncooked chicken: After breading, you can freeze the chicken fingers. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Store the dipping sauce: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheat leftovers: If you have any leftovers, reheat them in the oven for that crispy texture.

Common Qs About Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for this recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers?

These chicken fingers pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget extra dipping sauce!

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, it’s time to dig in! Whether you’re enjoying them solo with a good movie or sharing them with friends at a gathering, these chicken fingers are sure to impress. Serve them fresh out of the fryer with your homemade dipping sauce, and watch as everyone devours them in seconds.

There’s something special about recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home, and this Copycat Raising Canes Chicken Fingers recipe is no exception. With its crispy coating and tender chicken, you’ll find yourself making these time and time again. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade feast!