Name: Homemade Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice); 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness); 2-3 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Perfection: Utilizing panko breadcrumbs ensures an extra-crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.
Flavorful Seasoning: A seasoned flour mixture imparts savory notes, elevating the overall taste.
Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit various flavor preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
All-purpose flour
Salt
Garlic powder
Buttermilk
Panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels to help the breading adhere better.
Set Up Dredging Station: In separate shallow bowls, place the seasoned flour mixture (flour, salt, and garlic powder), buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge the Chicken: Working in batches, dredge the chicken pieces first in the seasoned flour, then dip them into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat them in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.
Heat the Oil: Fill a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with 2-3 inches of oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season immediately with extra salt if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a kick of heat.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate dried herbs like parsley, oregano, basil, or thyme into the breading for an aromatic twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Alternative Protein: Substitute chicken thighs for an even juicier result.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Place any leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes or in a preheated oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I bake this popcorn chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Note that the texture may be less crispy compared to frying.

How do I keep popcorn chicken warm and crispy for serving?

Keep it in a 200°F (90°C) oven while frying batches. Alternatively, reheat in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes to re-crisp.

Can I make popcorn chicken ahead and reheat?

For best results, cook it fresh. However, you can reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven until hot and crispy again.

What dipping sauces go well with popcorn chicken?

Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, and marinara are all excellent choices.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may result in juicier pieces.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to buttermilk?

You can use a dairy-free milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute for buttermilk.

How can I ensure the breading stays on the chicken?

Pat the chicken pieces dry before dredging and press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere better.

Can I freeze the breaded chicken before frying?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What oil is best for frying popcorn chicken?

Vegetable or canola oil are good choices due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.

How can I add more flavor to the breading?

Experiment with different spices and herbs in the flour mixture or add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade popcorn chicken is a delightful treat that combines tender, juicy chicken with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Its versatility allows for various flavor adaptations, making it a dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.