Description
This Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe is a delicious snack or appetizer that is sure to please both kids and adults. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bite-sized chicken pieces are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, and hot sauce if using. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture, coat well in the flour mixture.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double dip: return the flour-coated chicken to the buttermilk, then coat again in flour before frying.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
