Irresistibly Crunchy Popcorn Chicken Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Ready to Dip

Popcorn chicken is the ultimate comfort food – tender, juicy bites of chicken wrapped in a perfectly seasoned, ultra-crispy coating. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it irresistible for parties, snacks, or even a family dinner. Whether you’re craving something to dip into your favorite sauces or looking for a crispy snack to munch on, this popcorn chicken recipe is just what you need.

Photo byNick Davies

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s a dish that I often made for gatherings and movie nights – the perfect finger food that keeps everyone coming back for more. There’s something nostalgic about enjoying these bite-sized crispy pieces, reminding me of my first experience with homemade fried chicken. I found this amazing recipe at Insanely Good Recipes and couldn’t wait to share it with you!

If you’ve ever wondered about popcorn chicken’s origins, it became popular in fast food restaurants as a snack-sized alternative to larger chicken cuts. Known for its crispy exterior and tender meat, it’s perfect for dipping in sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or sweet chili sauce. With this recipe, you can bring that same restaurant-quality crunch home – and the best part? It’s super easy to make!

The Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2-3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

How to Make Perfectly Crispy Popcorn Chicken at Home:

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
2. Prepare Your Coating: In one shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, remaining salt, and pepper. In a second dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if you like an extra kick).
3. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg, and finally coat it in the seasoned panko crumbs. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to make sure they stick well.
4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pot, for about 3-4 minutes per batch. Each piece should turn golden brown and crispy. For an extra-crispy result, you can fry the chicken pieces a second time for 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, drain the popcorn chicken on a wire rack placed over paper towels. Sprinkle a little extra salt on top for added flavor, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you go for ranch, honey mustard, or a sweet chili sauce, every bite will be packed with crispy goodness.

Tips for the Best Popcorn Chicken:

• Marinate for Juiciness: Letting the chicken sit in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes will make the meat incredibly tender and full of flavor.
• Double-Coating for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier result, press the panko crumbs firmly onto the chicken and double-coat it in the egg and panko mixture.
• Fry Twice for Maximum Crispiness: The double-frying technique gives the chicken that deep golden crunch you’d expect from a restaurant, while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings. Adding paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne to the panko breadcrumbs gives the coating a flavorful kick, making each bite unforgettable.

Perfect Pairings for Your Popcorn Chicken:

Popcorn chicken is incredibly versatile and can be paired with just about anything. Serve it as a snack on its own with a variety of dipping sauces, or elevate it with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even in wraps. For a fun twist, toss the crispy bites in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick or honey BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory treat.

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