Introduction

Crispy Popcorn Chicken is a tasty treat that everyone loves. These little bites of joy are perfect for snacks, parties, or a fun family dinner. They are crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them hard to resist!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Crispy Popcorn Chicken at home is a great way to enjoy a classic dish without any preservatives or unwanted ingredients. You can customize the spices to fit your taste. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that can be shared with friends and family. Everyone will enjoy this crispy goodness!

How to Make Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions:

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for best results.
In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Shake off any excess flour.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even frying.
Fry the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per batch or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve the crispy popcorn chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard. Enjoy the crunchy goodness!

How to Serve Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Crispy Popcorn Chicken can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard. You can also serve it with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Crispy Popcorn Chicken

To store leftover Crispy Popcorn Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a hot oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness.

Tips to Make Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Let the chicken marinate for longer for more flavor.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the chicken from soaking up too much oil.
Dredging the chicken twice in the flour mixture can make it extra crispy.

Variation

For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. You can also try adding different seasonings like Italian herbs or BBQ spices to the flour mixture.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: You can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Just coat it with the flour mixture and place it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before and fry it just before serving for the best results.