Popcorn Chicken | SaraTasty

Popcorn Chicken

This homemade Popcorn Chicken recipe is a crispy, flavorful twist on the famous KFC version. With a simple buttermilk marinade and a seasoned flour coating, this easy shallow-fried chicken delivers perfectly crispy bites of juicy chicken in just 2 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy & Juicy: Coated in a seasoned flour mix, this popcorn chicken turns out crispy on the outside while staying tender inside.
  • Quick & Easy: A quick 2-minute shallow fry makes it faster and less messy than deep-frying.
  • Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish served with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or tenderloin, cut into small cubes
  • 180ml (3/4 cup) buttermilk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the buttermilk, egg, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken cubes, coat them, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Flour Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the flour with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
  3. Coat the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour until well-coated.
  4. Shallow Fry the Chicken: Heat a shallow layer of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 2 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve with dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus marination)
  • Cooking Time: 2 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
  • Herb Additions: Add thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and are slightly juicier.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or yogurt mixed with milk.

3. Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 400°F for 7-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be golden brown, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I freeze these?

Yes, freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to cook.

6. Can I bake these instead of frying?

For a healthier option, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15 minutes.

7. How can I make the coating extra crispy?

Double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and the flour mixture for extra crunch.

8. Can I use non-dairy milk for the marinade?

Yes, use any non-dairy milk like almond milk mixed with vinegar to create a similar effect.

9. What dipping sauces go well with popcorn chicken?

Try honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for dipping.

10. How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is well-coated in the flour mixture and don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.

Conclusion

This homemade popcorn chicken is crispy, tender, and packed with flavor. It’s a great snack, appetizer, or meal option that’s easy to make and loved by everyone!

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Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn Chicken


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This homemade Popcorn Chicken recipe is a crispy, flavorful twist on the famous KFC version. With a simple buttermilk marinade and a seasoned flour coating, these easy shallow-fried chicken bites deliver crispy on the outside and tender on the inside in just 2 minutes.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast or tenderloin, cut into small cubes
  • 180ml (3/4 cup) buttermilk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
Combine buttermilk, egg, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken cubes, coat them, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Flour Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.

3. Coat the Chicken:
After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour until well-coated.

4. Shallow Fry the Chicken:
Heat a shallow layer of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Drain and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
  • Herb Additions: Add thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marination)
  • Cook Time: 2 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Shallow Frying
  • Cuisine: American
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