Popcorn Chicken
I remember the first time I made Popcorn Chicken. It was a rainy weekend, and I craved something crispy and satisfying. I gathered all the ingredients, my heart bubbling with excitement. As I chopped the chicken into bite-sized pieces, the aroma of the fresh buttermilk hit me. It felt like a warm hug, promising comfort and happiness. Frying those little nuggets until they were golden brown brought me back to childhood memories of enjoying crispy snacks on lazy afternoons. The crunch of cornflour and the spiciness of smoked paprika made each bite a delight. Every time I serve Popcorn Chicken, it feels like sharing a piece of joy with friends and family.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
10 mins
15 mins
Easy
350 kcal
20 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
18 g
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet
There are countless reasons to love this dish! From its crispy exterior to the juicy tender chicken within, Popcorn Chicken is a sensational treat that never fails to impress. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.
What’s Great About This Popcorn Chicken
Irresistible Crunch
The moment you bite into a piece of Popcorn Chicken, you’re greeted with an incredible crunch. The secret lies in the double coating of cornflour and spices, giving it an addictive texture. It’s a texture that makes you want to keep reaching for more.
Versatile Snacking
One of the things I adore about Popcorn Chicken is its versatility. It can be served as an appetizer at parties, enjoyed as a quick snack, or even as a delightful main dish paired with your favorite sides. You can style it in countless ways, from spicy to savory, ensuring there’s a version for everyone.
Easy to Make
This recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make! With simple ingredients like buttermilk and cornflour, you can whip this up even on your busiest days. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something satisfying without too much fuss.
Family-Friendly Fun
Popcorn Chicken is a hit with kids of all ages! They love the bite-sized pieces and the fun of dipping them in sauces. I love making this for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy something that brings smiles all around.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Another reason this recipe stands out is that it’s excellent for meal prep. You can make a big batch, freeze them, and pop them in the oven or air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week.
What You Need for Popcorn Chicken
When it comes to making Popcorn Chicken, the ingredients are the stars of the show. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect flavor and texture. We’re using tender chicken, creamy buttermilk, and a blend of spices to set our dish apart. Let’s take a closer look at these key players!
- 2 small chicken breasts chopped into bite-sized pieces, about 3/4 pounds – The star of this dish, providing the juicy tenderness we crave.
- 3/4 cup buttermilk – This ingredient helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – A necessary seasoning to enhance the overall taste.
- 3/4 cup cornflour – This gives our Popcorn Chicken its signature crispiness.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – Adds a wonderful smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano – This herb gives a fresh and aromatic touch.
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder – Provides a bit of tang and depth to the flavor.
- 1/2 cup oil – Essential for frying and achieving that golden color.
Popcorn Chicken Instructions
Making Popcorn Chicken is a joyous experience that will have you craving more! Follow these simple steps to create crispy, delicious morsels that everyone will love.
- Start by taking a large bowl and combine the diced chicken breasts, buttermilk, and salt. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer the chicken marinates, the better it will taste.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornflour, smoked paprika, oregano, and mustard powder. This dry mixture will give the chicken its killer flavor and crunch.
- Next, heat up the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Wait patiently until the temperature reaches between 350 to 375°F. This is important as it ensures the chicken cooks properly and becomes crispy.
- Once the oil is ready, drain the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and move quickly to coat the pieces in the dry mixture. Make sure every piece is evenly coated.
- Now, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; you want perfect color!
- After frying, drain the Popcorn Chicken on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Season with more salt to taste if desired, and enjoy while they’re hot!
Things Worth Knowing
- Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A thermometer helps to achieve the right cooking temperature.
- Coating Technique: For even crispiness, make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the dry mixture.
- Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Storage: You can store leftover Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Substitutions and Tips
Cooking Popcorn Chicken can be a fun and creative process! Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for optimal crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the breaded chicken pieces before frying. Just ensure they’re in a single layer, then transfer them to a ziplock bag once frozen.
- Pairing: Serve your Popcorn Chicken with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices. Adding chili powder, cayenne, or even five-spice powder can give your chicken a unique twist.
- Cooking Method: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake or air fry the chicken instead! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for each method.
- Enjoying with Friends: These little nuggets are perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings. Make a big batch and watch them disappear!
What to Pair With Popcorn Chicken
Pairing Popcorn Chicken with delicious sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
- Fries: You can never go wrong with crispy fries! They are the perfect companion.
- Salads: Light salads with a vinegar-based dressing can cut through the fried flavor, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Wraps: Use Popcorn Chicken in wraps with fresh veggies and sauces for a quick lunch option.
- Buffalo Sauce: Try drizzling some buffalo sauce over the chicken for a spicy twist.
- Occasions: This dish is a hit at parties, game days, or even as a fun family dinner. Its versatility makes it suitable for any gathering.
FAQ
Conclusion
This Popcorn Chicken recipe truly shines with its crunchy texture and juicy flavor. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game nights. I encourage you to try it out and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite!
Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken breasts, buttermilk, and salt. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer the chicken marinates, the better it will taste.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornflour, smoked paprika, oregano, and mustard powder. This dry mixture will give the chicken its killer flavor and crunch.
- Next, heat up the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Wait patiently until the temperature reaches between 350 to 375°F. This is important as it ensures the chicken cooks properly and becomes crispy.
- Once the oil is ready, drain the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and move quickly to coat the pieces in the dry mixture. Make sure every piece is evenly coated.
- Now, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; you want perfect color!
- After frying, drain the Popcorn Chicken on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Season with more salt to taste if desired, and enjoy while they're hot!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for optimal crispiness.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the breaded chicken pieces before frying. Just ensure they're in a single layer, then transfer them to a ziplock bag once frozen.
- Tip 3: Serve your Popcorn Chicken with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with spices. Adding chili powder, cayenne, or even five-spice powder can give your chicken a unique twist.
- Tip 5: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake or air fry the chicken instead! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for each method.
- Tip 6: These little nuggets are perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings. Make a big batch and watch them disappear!
