Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

This Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It features bite-sized pieces of chicken that are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This recipe is simple to make, and it’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, game day snack, or party appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

  • Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s fun to eat and perfect for dipping.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a main course with your favorite sides, or as a delicious appetizer for your next gathering.
  • Simple and Satisfying: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a breeze to make.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and snacking.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Creates a light coating that helps the breading adhere to the chicken.
  • Salt and Garlic Powder: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
  • Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
  • Panko Bread Crumbs: Provide a light and crispy coating.
  • Oil: Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.

How to Make Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and garlic powder. Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally, coat in panko bread crumbs.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Fry the chicken in small batches until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Serve

Remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for Making Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

  • Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350°F for optimal frying.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying the chicken in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and ensures even cooking.
  • Serve Immediately: Popcorn chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

How to Serve Easy Popcorn Chicken

Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe
  • With Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
  • As a Main Course: Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve as a fun and delicious appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked popcorn chicken for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work well in this recipe.

2. Can I bake the popcorn chicken instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Easy Popcorn Chicken. I hope you enjoy it!

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Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

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  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: appetizers
  • Method: deep frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Easy Popcorn Chicken recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy bite-sized pieces of crispy, juicy chicken. Perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or even a fun main course.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, plus more to serve
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups panko bread crumbs
  • 1 cup vegetable or canola oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare breading stations: In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and garlic powder. Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl. Place panko crumbs on a plate.
  2. Bread chicken: Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, and finally coat in panko crumbs. Transfer to a platter.
  3. Fry chicken: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in small batches until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
  4. Serve: Remove chicken from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Be sure to not overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken.
  • You can use different types of oil, such as peanut oil or vegetable shortening.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 Serving
  • Calories: 450kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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