Get ready to experience popcorn chicken like never before, with a perfectly seasoned, shatteringly crisp crust and incredibly juicy, tender meat inside. This recipe uses a simple buttermilk marinade to ensure every bite is packed with flavor and moisture. Forget the frozen aisle or takeout, because making these irresistible bites at home is surprisingly easy and so much more rewarding.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins (includes 15-minute marinating time)
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 1 tsp Hot Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 1/2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs
- 2 Large Eggs
- 2 tbsp Water
- 2 tsp Salt, divided
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- Vegetable or Canola Oil, for frying (about 2-3 inches)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and 1 tsp of salt. Add the chicken pieces and stir to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, whisk together the flour, the remaining 1 tsp salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and water together. In the third dish, place the Panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Bread the Chicken: Working with a few pieces at a time, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, and finally, press it firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs to create a thick, even coat.
- Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot (this is key for maximum crispiness!). Fry in batches for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is a deep golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked popcorn chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain. This keeps them crispy all around. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.
Recipe Notes:
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: The buttermilk marinade is a game-changer! Its slight acidity helps to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
- Panko is King for Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, which means they absorb less oil and create a superior, crunchier crust.
- Maintain Your Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil between 350-365°F (175-185°C). If the oil is too cool, the chicken will be greasy; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Air Fryer Instructions: For a lighter version, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken in a single layer in the basket and spray generously with cooking oil spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Dipping Sauce Fun: Get creative! These are fantastic with a classic ranch or honey mustard, but also try a spicy aioli, sweet chili sauce, or a simple cheese dip.
There you have it – a platter of perfectly golden, irresistibly crispy, and wonderfully juicy popcorn chicken that will be a massive hit with everyone. This recipe is perfect for game day, a fun family movie night, or whenever you need a delicious and satisfying comfort food fix. We hope you enjoy every single crunchy bite!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 485; Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 4g); Carbohydrates: 35g; Sugar: 3g; Sodium: 1150mg; Protein: 36g;
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
