Sorry, Not Sorry – These 13 Copycats Put the Originals To Shame

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Sorry, Not Sorry – These 13 Copycats Put the Originals To Shame

When it comes to reinventing classic dishes, the concept of copycats has a charm all its own. These 13 new versions often take a familiar favorite and tweak it just enough to bring a refreshing change without losing the essence that made it loved in the first place. It’s like meeting an old friend who has learned a few new tricks, keeping the comfort but adding a spark of novelty.

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bringing a touch of Italian American dining right to your kitchen, this recipe nails the creamy sauce and comforting feel Olive Garden is known for. Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is rich without being too heavy. Perfect for those evenings when you want to treat yourself, it’s a dish that proves home cooking can outshine dining out.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving that crunchy, spicy bite of a KFC Zinger Burger? Look no further. You can make it in the comfort of your own kitchen, tweaking it to suit your spice level. It’s a fun experiment in recreating a fast-food favorite that might just end up being your go-to recipe for burger night.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who love their pasta with a bit of a kick, Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta brings the heat in the best way possible. It’s as fulfilling as the dish you queue up for at your favorite chain, but with the joy of customizing it to your heart’s content. Serving up this dish will definitely get everyone excited for dinner, proving that great flavors don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Chipotle black beans cooked and in a serving bowl.
Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ever noticed how the Black Beans at Chipotle somehow always taste better? With Copycat Chipotle Black Beans, you can capture that same rich, slightly smoky taste at home. Perfect for meal prep or for making a batch to use throughout the week, it’s a versatile recipe that enhances any meal with a familiar but replicated comfort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Roasted air fryer whole chicken served on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who knew making a Whole Chicken could be so effortless? This air fryer recipe not only simplifies the process but also ensures you end up with a bird that’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. It’s a game changer for weeknight dinners or when you’re entertaining and want to make a statement without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mushroom Birria Tacos

A plate of tacos with a sauce on it.
Mushroom Birria Tacos. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Taking the food world by storm, Birria tacos have everyone talking, and this Mushroom Birria Tacos variant is no exception. It’s a hearty, plant-based take on the trend that doesn’t skimp on the rich, deep flavors or the messy eating experience. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to mix things up, these tacos offer a unique and delicious twist that’s bound to impress.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Birria Tacos

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Marinated to perfection and grilled to achieve that smokiness everyone loves, Chipotle Grilled Chicken might make you skip the line at Chipotle next time. The best part is how easy it is to recreate that restaurant-quality taste at home, proving that sometimes, simple ingredients and techniques really are the best.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget about bland side dishes; Cilantro Lime Rice brings tang and freshness to any table. Whether you’re pairing it with Mexican cuisine or just looking for something different to serve with dinner, this rice promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a small touch that can make a big difference in elevating a meal.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Hash Browns

Hash Browns on a white plate with an egg and avocado.
Hash Browns. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Starting your day with the perfect crispy Hash Browns can easily become a morning ritual after you try this recipe. Ideal as a side for your breakfast or brunch, they’re also incredibly versatile, matching well with a range of toppings and accompaniments. Who needs the drive-thru when you have this recipe up your sleeve?
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those nights when you’re craving takeout but want something homemade, this Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s a quick and easy way to bring a bit of that fast-food magic to your dining table without the added MSG. Pair it with rice or noodles for a simple, yet fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside.
Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Finding the secret to that addictive Chick-fil-A Sauce might just change your dipping game forever. This copycat recipe allows you to slather, dip, and dollop with abandon, knowing you can always whip up more. It’s surprisingly simple to make and goes well with everything from fries to chicken to burgers.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says comfort food quite like Chicken and Dumplings, especially when it’s a dish that reminds you of Cracker Barrel. This copycat recipe captures the essence of that comfort, making it easy to recreate those warm, cozy vibes at home. It’s hearty, filling, and just like the original, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Copycat Smash Burger

Close-up of a copycat smash burger with lettuce, tomato, and a thick beef patty on a sesame seed bun.
Copycat Smash Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Perfecting the art of the Smash Burger at home means you can indulge in that crispy, juicy, and utterly fulfilling burger experience anytime the craving strikes. This recipe takes all the guesswork out, ensuring you get that iconic crust and tender interior with every bite. It’s a fun way to bring some of that fast-food charm into your kitchen, proving that great burgers don’t always require a trip out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Smash Burger

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