Homemade Popcorn Chicken is a delightfully crispy and tender bite-sized chicken that’s perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer. It’s not heavy or overly greasy either. I think it’s a perfect game day or party snack, and if you’re not a fan of deep-frying, feel free to bake them.
They will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a light & crispy chicken snack that’s not overly greasy, you’ve come to the right place. When you make tender chicken pieces and coat them with a perfectly seasoned crispy breading, you get the perfect bite-sized treat. The addition of your favorite dipping sauce just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for some fun and tasty snacks, and this homemade popcorn chicken is just what I needed. Not a fan of frying? Don’t worry, they’re still delicious baked!
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet or deep fryer
- Parchment paper (if baking)
- Tongs
- Paper towels (for draining if frying)
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying (if frying)
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with the buttermilk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the flour, dip in the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Frying Method: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
Cook Time:
- 15-25 minutes (depending on frying or baking)
Total Time:
- 65 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Enjoy your delicious and crispy Homemade Popcorn Chicken!
Homemade Popcorn Chicken
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet or deep fryer
- Parchment paper (if baking)
- Tongs
- Paper towels (for draining if frying)
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko for extra crunch
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying if frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with the buttermilk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the flour, dip in the egg, and then coat with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Frying Method: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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