Popcorn fried chicken is one of those recipes that I make when I want something fun, crispy, and bite-sized. It’s perfect for snacking, serving at parties, or even as a kid-friendly meal. My family loves it because they can grab little pieces, dip them into their favorite sauces, and enjoy them without needing a fork and knife.

The first time I made this, I was trying to recreate the fast-food version at home. I wanted it to be crispy, flavorful, and easy to make in big batches. After a few tries, I figured out the best way to get that perfect crunch—using a mix of buttermilk for tenderness and a light flour coating for crispiness. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes when I need something quick and delicious.

Servings	Total
6	35mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

Like most of my favorite recipes, this one came from trial and error. I had tried different versions of popcorn chicken at restaurants and fast-food places, but I wanted to make it at home with better ingredients.

I started with a basic fried chicken recipe, then adjusted the seasoning and breading to make sure it had the right crunch. After a few attempts, I found the perfect balance of crispy coating and juicy chicken. Now, it’s a family favorite, and I make it whenever we’re craving something crispy and bite-sized.

Why Popcorn Fried Chicken?

Popcorn fried chicken is great because it’s crispy, easy to eat, and packed with flavor. Here’s why I love this recipe:

Bite-Sized and Fun: Perfect for snacking, parties, or kids’ meals.
Crispy and Crunchy: The coating is light but super crispy.
Quick to Make: No need to fry big pieces of chicken—these cook fast!
Great for Dipping: Pair with your favorite sauces for extra flavor.

What Is Popcorn Fried Chicken Made Of?

Popcorn fried chicken has simple ingredients that create a crispy and flavorful result:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small pieces.
Buttermilk Marinade: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
Flour Coating: A mix of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and seasonings for crispiness.
Egg Wash: Helps the coating stick to the chicken.
Frying Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil.

What to Have with Popcorn Fried Chicken

Popcorn fried chicken is great on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and sauces makes it even better. Here are some ideas:

French Fries: A classic pairing for crispy chicken.
Mac and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, it balances the crunch.
Coleslaw: A fresh, tangy contrast to the fried chicken.
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: A comforting side.
Dipping Sauces: Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or spicy mayo.

Is Popcorn Fried Chicken Healthy?

Popcorn fried chicken is a treat, but you can make it a little healthier by air frying instead of deep frying. Using skinless chicken and pairing it with a fresh salad or veggies can also make it a more balanced meal.

Kitchen Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need:

A deep frying pan or Dutch oven
A thermometer for checking oil temperature
Mixing bowls
A whisk for the egg wash
A wire rack for draining fried chicken
Tongs for handling the chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

For the Egg Wash:

2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk

For Frying:

Vegetable or canola oil (enough for frying)

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Honey mustard
Ranch dressing
Buffalo sauce
BBQ sauce

Directions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Make the Egg Wash

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
Dip each piece into the egg wash.
Coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading sticks.
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it sit for 10 minutes—this helps the coating adhere.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of batter—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Fry for about 4-5 minutes per batch or until golden brown and crispy.
Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve hot with dipping sauces and your favorite sides.

Tips

Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch: It makes the coating lighter and crispier.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Frying: This helps the breading stick better.
Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature: Too hot, and the coating burns before the inside cooks. Too cool, and the chicken absorbs too much oil.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works well, but thighs stay juicier.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and replace cornstarch with potato starch.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat popcorn chicken?
For best results, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Conclusion

Popcorn fried chicken is crispy, bite-sized, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to game-day snacks. Whether you’re dipping it in honey mustard or pairing it with fries, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy every crispy bite!

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