[[{“value”:”There’s a lot of competition in the fast-food chicken category, but Popeyes has carved out a strong place for itself. The chain ranked No. 2 among chicken chains in U.S. sales, according to the QSR 50 2026 report, trailing only Chick-fil-A. Known for its Louisiana-inspired menu, Cajun and Creole seasonings, and signature fried chicken, Popeyes offers plenty of options beyond its famous chicken sandwich. But which menu items are worth ordering? Therese Buchanan, home chef, food blogger & recipe developer at Tessie’s Table, shares five picks to try on your next visit.
Signature Chicken
Fried chicken is the foundation of Popeyes’ menu, and its signature bone-in chicken is a natural choice for anyone who wants the classic experience. “Popeyes Signature Chicken is marinated for 12 hours in Louisiana seasonings before being hand-battered and breaded,” explains Buchanan. “That seasoning is a big part of what makes the chicken stand out, along with the thick, craggy coating that gets especially crispy when fried.”
Classic Chicken Sandwich
Popeyes helped reignite the fast-food chicken sandwich wars when its chicken sandwich debuted in 2019, drawing widespread attention and long lines at locations across the country. The sandwich remains one of the chain’s defining menu items, making it an obvious pick for anyone visiting Popeyes for the first time. “Popeyes Chicken Sandwich became hugely popular when it launched, and the thick piece of fried chicken is a big reason why,” says Buchanan. “It’s served on a toasted brioche bun with pickles and mayo, and the crunchy breading against the soft bun and juicy chicken gives it a great texture.”
Chicken Tenders
For an easy but tasty finger food without the mess, Popeyes’ tenders are a must-try. “Popeyes Chicken Tenders have the same Louisiana-style seasoning and crunchy breading as the chain’s signature fried chicken,” says Buchanan. “They’re especially good with one of the dipping sauces, and the thinner pieces give you plenty of crispy coating in every bite.”
Cajun Fries
You can order fries almost anywhere, but Popeyes’ stands out for its Cajun flair. “Popeyes Cajun Fries are seasoned with a blend of spices that gives them much more flavor than plain salted fries,” Buchanan shares. “The thin-cut fries get crispy around the edges, and the seasoning has a little warmth and peppery flavor that works really well alongside the fried chicken.”
Red Beans & Rice
Red beans and rice is a satisfying dish on its own, but pairing it with Popeyes’ fried chicken makes for an even heartier meal. “Popeyes Red Beans & Rice is one of the chain’s most recognizable sides,” says Buchanan. “The beans have a smooth, creamy texture with a savory, smoky seasoning, while the rice adds a little texture. It’s a particularly good side to order with the spicy fried chicken.”
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