Popcorn Chicken

Crunchy, fried bites of tender chicken make this popcorn chicken a fun and perfect food to serve at a party or for a lunchtime treat. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior create a delightful contrast that everyone will love. Whether for game day snacking or an afternoon pick-me-up, this dish is sure to impress with its simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious snack in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or gatherings, everyone will enjoy these bite-sized delights.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice level by adding more hot sauce or experimenting with different seasonings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a topping on salads.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love finger foods, making this popcorn chicken an ideal choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start your popcorn chicken journey, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Candy thermometer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: This deep pot is perfect for frying, allowing the oil to maintain a consistent temperature for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature so that your popcorn chicken cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining all your ingredients without any mess.
• Tongs: Ideal for safely handling hot chicken pieces while frying without burning your hands.

Ingredients

Crunchy, fried bites of tender chicken make this popcorn chicken a fun and perfect food to serve at a party or for a lunchtime treat.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)

For the Marinade

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 dashes Cholula hot sauce (or Tabasco hot sauce)

For the Coating

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

For Frying

• Vegetable oil or shortening (for frying – at least 4 cups)

How to Make Popcorn Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken breasts into small bite-size pieces (¾ inch x ¾ inch).

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, stir together the buttermilk and hot sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Set Up Your Coating Station

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.
2. Place the panko breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. In your Dutch oven, heat at least 4 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Allow approximately 15 minutes for it to reach this temperature. Use your candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken Pieces

1. Working with just a few pieces at a time:
2. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, coating on all sides.
3. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture.
4. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully drop just a few coated chicken pieces into heated oil at once.
2. Fry until cooked through (the center should reach 165°F), about 2 to 3 minutes. The outside should be deep golden brown and crispy.
3. Maintain an oil temperature of 350°F throughout cooking.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

1. Once cooked, place fried chicken on paper towels or brown paper bags to soak up excess oil before serving.

Enjoy your homemade popcorn chicken as a delightful snack or meal option!

How to Serve Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn chicken is not just a delicious snack; it’s also versatile enough to be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
• Barbecue Sauce: Smoky and sweet, barbecue sauce adds a delightful flavor contrast.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing enhances the crunchiness of the popcorn chicken.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love heat, buffalo sauce gives an extra kick.

In a Wrap

• Chicken Wrap: Place popcorn chicken in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce for a quick meal.
• Pita Pocket: Stuffed with veggies and popcorn chicken, pita pockets make for a fun and portable option.

As Part of a Salad

• Popcorn Chicken Salad: Toss popcorn chicken on top of mixed greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a hearty salad.
• Caesar Salad Twist: Add crispy popcorn chicken to classic Caesar salad for added protein and texture.

On Skewers

• Chicken Skewers: Thread cooked popcorn chicken onto skewers with peppers or onions for an appealing presentation at parties.

How to Perfect Popcorn Chicken

Making perfect popcorn chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for golden, crispy bites every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken ensures better flavor and texture compared to frozen alternatives.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at 350°F allows for even cooking and prevents greasy textures.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy results.
• Pat Dry Before Coating: Make sure your chicken pieces are dry before dipping; this helps the coatings stick better.
• Let It Rest After Frying: Allowing cooked chicken to rest on paper towels helps absorb excess oil for crispier bites.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for additional flavor in the flour mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Popcorn Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your popcorn chicken can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delightful side options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing side that complements the richness of fried chicken.
2. French Fries: Classic crispy fries make for an irresistible combination with popcorn chicken.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort food goodness alongside your crunchy bites.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These add a hint of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a summery touch that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
6. Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of steamed or roasted vegetables offers a healthy contrast to fried food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making popcorn chicken, it’s easy to make a few simple missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Buttermilk: Don’t skip marinating in buttermilk. It tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating.
• Not Monitoring Oil Temperature: Failing to keep the oil at 350°F can lead to soggy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
• Overcrowding the Fryer: Adding too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for crispier results.
• Inconsistent Coating: Ensure each piece is well-coated with flour, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs. This ensures a crispy texture all over.
• Ignoring Resting Time: Placing cooked chicken directly on serving plates can make it soggy. Letting it rest on paper towels absorbs excess oil.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for best quality.

Freezing Popcorn Chicken

• Place cooled popcorn chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Popcorn Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in less crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to keep it crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Popcorn Chicken?

Popcorn chicken consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that are coated and fried until crispy. It’s a popular snack or party food.

How do I make my popcorn chicken extra crispy?

For extra crunch, double-coat your chicken by repeating the flour and buttermilk steps before applying the panko breadcrumbs.

Can I use different meats for Popcorn Chicken?

Yes! You can use turkey or lamb instead of chicken. Adjust cooking time based on the meat used.

How long does it take to cook Popcorn Chicken?

Cooking popcorn chicken typically takes about 2-3 minutes per batch, ensuring it’s cooked through and golden brown.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, you can bake popcorn chicken at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Conclusion

This popcorn chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that suits any occasion. Whether it’s a party snack or a fun lunch treat, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or dipping sauces. Give it a try, and enjoy these tasty bites with friends and family!

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