Popeyes is a popular fast food chain known for its Louisiana-style fried chicken. Many customers wonder if Popeyes offers skinless chicken options for those looking for a healthier alternative. In this article, we’ll take a look at what skinless chicken options are available at Popeyes.
The Basics of Popeyes Chicken
Popeyes is renowned for its hand-battered and breaded chicken. Their standard chicken offerings consist of bone-in fried chicken that is seasoned with a proprietary blend of Louisiana-inspired spices. The signature fried chicken comes with the skin on to maintain moisture and flavor.
The standard Popeyes chicken menu includes the following main options:
- Bone-in chicken – offered in 2 piece, 3 piece, 4 piece, and family meal sizes
- Tenders – crispy all white meat chicken strips
- Wings – breaded chicken wings
- Nuggets – bite-sized breaded and fried pieces of chicken
Popeyes proudly advertises their use of fresh, never frozen chicken. The chicken is delivered to locations daily and hand-breaded to order. The skin helps keep the chicken moist and juicy during the frying process.
Does Popeyes Offer Skinless Chicken?
Originally, Popeyes did not offer any skinless chicken options. All of their fried chicken selections came with the skin on. However, due to customer demand for healthier alternatives, Popeyes began testing skinless chicken offerings on a limited basis in 2021.
During the test phase, two locations in Tennessee offered skinless chicken. This consisted of bone-in fried chicken without the skin. Customers had the option to order a 2 piece or 3 piece meal with a choice of side and buttermilk biscuit.
The test locations received positive feedback on the new skinless chicken. In early 2022, Popeyes rolled out skinless fried chicken as a permanent menu item nationwide. All locations now have the ability to offer fried chicken without the skin upon request.
How to Order Skinless Chicken at Popeyes
To order the skinless chicken, guests can simply ask for it when placing their fried chicken order. Some tips for ordering include:
- Request the skinless option when choosing bone-in chicken pieces, tenders, or nuggets
- Specify the number of pieces or quantity of skinless chicken desired
- Indicate whether you want a combo meal or just the chicken a la carte
- Be aware the skinless chicken may take a few extra minutes to prepare
It’s a good idea to confirm with the cashier that your order will be prepared skinless. Politely request that they make a note so the cooks prepare it properly.
Nutrition Info for Popeyes Skinless Chicken
Ordering skinless chicken is a way to reduce fat, calories, and sodium at Popeyes. But how much healthier is it compared to their regular fried chicken?
Here is a nutrition comparison of Popeyes bone-in fried chicken with and without the skin (3 piece meal with mashed potatoes, biscuit, and coleslaw):
| Chicken Type | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| With skin | 980 | 59 | 57 | 38 | 1770 |
| Skinless | 620 | 17 | 57 | 38 | 1670 |
Going skinless saves you 360 calories and 42 grams of fat per 3 piece meal. It also reduces sodium slightly. However, the carb and protein content stays the same.
Tips for Enjoying Skinless Chicken at Popeyes
Here are some tips to enhance your experience when ordering Popeyes skinless chicken:
- Ask for an extra splash of Louisiana hot sauce or dipping sauce to boost flavor
- Try the blackened tenders for a skinless option with bold seasoning
- Order a side salad instead of fries to cut more calories
- Use their mobile app to order ahead when getting skinless to avoid waiting
- Drink water or unsweetened tea rather than soda for a healthier beverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the skinless chicken more expensive?
No, Popeyes charges the same price for skinless chicken as their regular bone-in fried chicken. Only available as an add-on option, not a separate menu item.
How long has Popeyes offered skinless chicken?
Popeyes launched skinless chicken nationwide in early 2022 after a successful test in 2021. It is now available at all locations in the U.S.
Does the skinless chicken taste as good?
Reviews are mixed on the taste. Some say it is slightly less juicy and flavorful than the standard chicken with skin. But dipping sauces can help enhance the flavor.
Can you get grilled chicken at Popeyes?
No, grilled chicken is not on the Popeyes menu. Their only healthy chicken option is the boneless, skinless fried chicken.
Is Popeyes chicken good for Keto or Paleo diets?
The skinless chicken can fit into a Keto or Paleo diet, but the breading makes it not strictly compatible. Going without the biscuit and fried sides helps.
The Bottom Line
Popeyes now offers skinless fried chicken nationwide for a lower fat alternative. While not as juicy or flavorful as the chicken with skin, it cuts a significant amount of calories and fat. Ordering the skinless option and skipping fried sides can provide a healthier fast food fried chicken meal.