Crispy Popcorn Chicken Recipe – Perfect for Any Occasion

Imagine biting into crispy, golden popcorn chicken, the crunch echoing in your ears as savory aromas dance around you. This delightful dish is the perfect blend of juicy chicken and crispy coating, guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy little jig. Picture yourself enjoying this flavor explosion on game day, family movie night, or even just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve a treat.

I still remember the first time I made popcorn chicken for my family. It was a chaotic gathering filled with laughter, spilled drinks, and my dog trying to sneak away with a piece. The moment they took their first bite, their faces lit up like it was Christmas morning. From that day on, popcorn chicken became our go-to comfort food for any occasion.

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was and insisted I make it every time we gathered.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many you’re feeding.

• All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crunchy coating; sift it for a smoother texture.

• Eggs: Use large eggs to bind everything together nicely.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide that extra crunch; they’re light and airy compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be used too if preferred!

• Smoked Paprika: A must for that irresistible smoky flavor; regular paprika works too but lacks the depth.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the entire dish.

• Vegetable Oil: Needed for frying; choose one with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. They should be roughly uniform so they cook evenly.

Create the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls – one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and the third filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and smoked paprika.

Coat the Chicken Pieces: Dip each piece of chicken first into flour (shake off excess), then into egg (let it drip), and finally coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Wait until shimmering but not smoking—this is crucial for perfect frying!

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place breaded chicken pieces in hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve!: Remove cooked chicken from skillet using tongs and let drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy every bite as you revel in your culinary success!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy popcorn chicken, start by marinating the chicken pieces for at least an hour. While they soak, prepare your breading station to keep everything organized.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your popcorn chicken by adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. Experiment with dipping sauces like honey mustard or spicy ranch for added flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.

Sometimes, I find myself reminiscing about that one family movie night where my kids devoured my popcorn chicken faster than I could say “pass the ketchup!” Their smiles were worth all the effort.

FAQ

What can I serve with popcorn chicken?

Popcorn chicken pairs well with coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad.

Can I make popcorn chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and freeze them before frying for later use.

Is there a gluten-free option for popcorn chicken?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it suitable for everyone.

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Popcorn Chicken

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Popcorn chicken is a deliciously crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from game days to cozy movie nights. This easy-to-make dish features juicy chicken pieces coated in a savory, crunchy breading that keeps everyone coming back for more. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with this irresistible comfort food. Dive into this flavor-packed recipe and enjoy the delightful satisfaction of homemade popcorn chicken!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and smoked paprika.
3. Dip each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess, then in egg, and finally coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat enough vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
5. Fry the breaded chicken pieces in batches for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg