Popcorn Chicken

Whenever I crave something crispy and comforting, Popcorn Chicken comes to mind. There’s just something absolutely delightful about those bite-sized pieces of fried chicken that can turn an ordinary day into a special occasion. I still remember the first time I made them for my family; the excitement in the kitchen was palpable. As the aroma filled the air, I could hear the anticipation as my loved ones gathered around, eagerly waiting to indulge in this scrumptious treat. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can bring everyone together, and that’s exactly what Popcorn Chicken does for us. Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner, this dish has become a staple in our home, always met with smiles and satisfied bellies. So, let’s get cooking and discover how to make this beloved dish!

Essential Ingredients for Popcorn Chicken

The ingredients for Popcorn Chicken are simple yet effective, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players here are the chicken, buttermilk, and corn flakes, which together form a crispy coating that is irresistible. Each ingredient has its role, making this dish not just another fried treat, but a celebration of flavors.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main star of the dish, it offers tenderness and juiciness.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken while imparting a slight tang.
• 2 tsp dried oregano, divided: Provides a subtle herbaceous note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 cup corn flakes, finely crushed: Creates the signature crunchy coating that makes Popcorn Chicken so delightful.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken and adds a bit of structure.
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: For an added kick, this spice brings heat to the dish.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness to the coating.
• 1/2 tsp sea salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spice; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Oil to fry: Choose canola or peanut oil for frying to get that perfect crispy finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Popcorn Chicken

Making Popcorn Chicken is a delightful journey that results in crispy, golden pieces of heaven. I love the whole process from preparing the marinade to frying those delicious bites. Each step is filled with anticipation and joy as the flavors meld together. Let’s dive into the details!

1. First, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat. Place these pieces into a medium-sized bowl.
2. Next, add the buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of the oregano, a pinch of sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix it all together, making sure every piece is well-coated. Then, tightly cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
3. While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating. In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the crushed corn flakes, flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the remaining oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each piece out of the buttermilk and gently press it into the dry mixture to coat. Make sure to rotate each piece, ensuring it’s covered on all sides. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Now it’s time to heat the oil. In a large, deep pan, heat approximately 16 ounces of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches between 350 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, or simply drop a small piece of the coating into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
6. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each batch for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully browned and crispy. The sound of sizzling is music to your ears!
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it immediately onto a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any excess oil, keeping your Popcorn Chicken crispy.
8. Finally, serve the Popcorn Chicken hot. You can enjoy it on its own or with your favorite dipping sauces. The crispy texture and flavorful seasoning will have everyone coming back for more!

Expert Tips about Popcorn Chicken

Making the perfect Popcorn Chicken is an art, and I’ve gathered some tips over the years that can help you achieve the ultimate crispy goodness. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time!

• Storage: Any leftover Popcorn Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked coated chicken for up to three months. Simply place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve Popcorn Chicken with a variety of dips like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard for an extra flavor kick. It’s perfect for parties!
• Variations: Get creative with your coatings! Try using crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for different textures and flavors. You can even experiment with adding different spices to the mix!
• Healthier Alternatives: If you want a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes.
• Flavor Infusion: Get adventurous with your marinades! Try adding different sauces or seasonings to the buttermilk marinade to infuse unique flavors into the chicken.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Popcorn Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here’s how you can elevate your dish to new heights:

• Side Dishes: Pair your crispy Popcorn Chicken with a fresh garden salad or crispy fries. You can also serve them with creamy coleslaw for a delightful crunch.
• Dipping Sauces: Consider offering a trio of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, and spicy sriracha for a fun, flavorful experience.
• Occasions: Perfect for game day snacks, family gatherings, or casual dinners. Popcorn Chicken makes any meal feel like a celebration!
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain the crispiness!
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, enjoy Popcorn Chicken with light, refreshing sides like watermelon salad. In colder months, serve with hearty sides like mashed potatoes.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Popcorn Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy texture with mouthwatering flavor, making it a favorite for many. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-try in your kitchen. I encourage you to give this recipe a shot; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Popcorn Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Popcorn Chicken is crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 tsp dried oregano divided
• 1 cup corn flakes finely crushed
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper if you love the pepper flavor, increase to 1/2 tsp
• Oil to fry Oil Canola or peanut works well

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite size chunks and transfer to a medium size bowl. Add buttermilk, 1 teaspoon oregano, a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper. Mix and make sure all chicken is covered. Tightly cover bowl and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
2. In a shallow bowl or plate, mix together corn flakes, flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and remaining salt, pepper and oregano. Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade and gently press into the dry mixture to coat, making sure to rotate chicken to cover all sides.
3. Heat approximately 16 oz of oil in a large deep pan to somewhere between 350 and 375 degrees fahrenheit. Fry coated chicken in batches, making sure to not overcrowd the pan, until nicely browned on both sides. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from oil and place immediately onto a plate that has been lined with paper towels to soak up excess oil. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can make Popcorn Chicken in large batches to keep them on hand for a few days or freeze. Your family will never go back to processed chicken nuggets again!
• Tip 2: Change up the flavors of your Popcorn Chicken by switching up the marinade recipe. Add BBQ sauce or use ranch dressing as your marinade.
• Tip 3: You can bake these instead of frying them. Just heat your oven to 425 F | 210 and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes on a nonstick baking sheet. If it is a darker nonstick sheet – lower the temperature by 25 degrees to prevent burning.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.