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. It’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, ensuring that everyone will be asking for more. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a casual weekday meal, popcorn chicken stands out with its crispy texture and flavor-packed seasoning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or gatherings; everyone loves crispy chicken bites.
• Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices and sauces to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Any Occasion: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main dish—it’s versatile!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids absolutely adore these bite-sized nuggets.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need for preparing your popcorn chicken.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Candy thermometer
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow dishes
• Tongs

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Ideal for frying; it retains heat well and ensures even cooking.
• Candy thermometer: Helps you achieve the perfect frying temperature for crispy chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Shallow dishes: Great for breading the chicken, allowing easy access when coating.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 ounces each)
• 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

For Breading

• 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, about ¾ inch by ¾ inch.

Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Mixture

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

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder.

Step 4: Prepare the Panko Breadcrumbs

1. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

1. Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven to at least 350°F (ideally around 350°F). It typically takes about 15 minutes to reach this temperature.
2. Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy before frying.

Step 6: Bread the Chicken Pieces

1. Working with just a few pieces at a time:
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
3. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture.
4. Finally, coat it in panko breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully drop just a few breaded chicken pieces into the heated oil.
2. Fry until cooked through; ensure that each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
3. The outside should be deep golden brown and crispy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes per batch.

Step 8: Drain Excess Oil

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

Enjoy your homemade popcorn chicken as a delightful snack or main course!

How to Serve Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn chicken is an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a tasty snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your popcorn chicken experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Barbecue Sauce: Smoky and rich, this sauce adds depth to each bite.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and flavorful, ideal for those who love a classic dip.
• Sriracha Mayo: A spicy and creamy blend that gives an extra kick to your chicken.

In a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Toss popcorn chicken on top of romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing for a filling meal.
• Cobb Salad: Add it to a hearty Cobb salad for a protein-packed lunch option.

As Sliders

• Mini Sandwiches: Serve popcorn chicken in slider buns with lettuce, pickles, and your favorite sauce for fun finger food at gatherings.

With Rice or Noodles

• Sticky Rice: Serve alongside sticky rice for a delicious fusion of textures and flavors.
• Noodle Bowl: Create a noodle bowl topped with popcorn chicken, fresh vegetables, and soy sauce.

How to Perfect Popcorn Chicken

Making perfect popcorn chicken involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure crispy and flavorful bites every time.

• Bold seasoning: Season the flour mixture generously to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Buttermilk soak: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before frying for tender meat.
• Proper oil temperature: Always ensure the oil is at 350°F before cooking; this helps achieve that golden-brown crunch.
• Small batches: Fry only a few pieces at a time; overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
• Drain properly: After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels or brown paper bags to absorb excess oil.

Best Side Dishes for Popcorn Chicken

Pairing side dishes with popcorn chicken can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. French Fries: Classic crispy fries are always a hit alongside popcorn chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw adds crunch and balances out the flavors.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort food vibes that everyone loves.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness and nutrition.
6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Fresh veggies paired with hummus offer a healthy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making popcorn chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Buttermilk: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. This step helps tenderize and add flavor, so don’t skip it!
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying the chicken at too low or high a temperature can result in greasy or burnt pieces. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature drastically, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for best results.
• Not Using Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t provide the same crunch as panko. Opt for panko for a crispy texture that makes popcorn chicken irresistible.
• Inadequate Draining: Failing to drain fried chicken on paper towels can leave it soggy. Always let your cooked chicken rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Popcorn Chicken

• Place cooled popcorn chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Popcorn Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°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: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to maintain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Popcorn Chicken?

Popcorn chicken consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that are breaded and deep-fried until golden brown. They are perfect as snacks or appetizers.

How do I make Popcorn Chicken crispy?

To ensure your popcorn chicken is crispy, use panko breadcrumbs and maintain the oil temperature at 350°F during frying.

Can I customize my Popcorn Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! You can add various spices or herbs to the flour mixture or even try different dipping sauces to enhance flavor.

How long does it take to cook Popcorn Chicken?

Cooking time is typically between 2-3 minutes per batch when frying at the right temperature, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

This popcorn chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, and feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!