Delicious & Crispy Homemade Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn ChickenPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Popcorn Chicken is a delightful snack or appetizer that features bite-sized pieces of chicken, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden brown perfection.

Get Full Recipe Directions Here

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
• Optional: dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
2. • Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
3. Set Up the Breading Station:
4. • In one bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
   • In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
5. Bread the Chicken:
6. • Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Heat the Oil:
8. • In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 1 inch of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature.
9. Fry the Chicken:
10. • Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
    • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
11. Serve:
12. • Serve the Popcorn Chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy this crispy, flavorful treat!

Conclusion:

This Popcorn Chicken recipe is a surefire way to please a crowd. It’s easy to make and incredibly delicious, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade snack that’s better than takeout!

FAQs:

1. Can I bake the Popcorn Chicken instead of frying?
2. • Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Spray the chicken with cooking spray before baking to help it crisp up.
3. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
4. • You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed crackers as an alternative to panko.
5. How do I store leftovers?
6. • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
8. • Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
9. What dipping sauces go well with Popcorn Chicken?
10. • Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and buffalo sauce are all great options. Feel free to get creative with your favorite sauces!

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Popcorn Chicken! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🍗