Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe —Indulge in the ultimate crispy and flavorful snack with our Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken recipe.
These bite-sized pieces of tender chicken are perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, making them the ideal finger food for any occasion.
Today, I will show you one of the easiest ways to make homemade Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken so you can skip the drive-thru!
Today, I made a traditional popcorn chicken that will rival anyone, including the big chains, so if your child (or you) is a big fan of KFC, Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Wendy’s, or even Burger King, you can create this in your own air fryer, saving you some cash and some calories as well.
So, within about 30 minutes, you can have a popular recipe that is perfect for any lunch, dinner, snack, or appetizer. Everyone loves popcorn chicken, which is why it’s found at almost every fast-food restaurant in America.
If you are looking for even more Air Fryer Chicken Recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER GENERAL TSO’S CHICKEN RECIPE, AIR FRYER CHICKEN WINGS WITH BUFFALO SAUCE, AIR FRYER HONEY BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS, and AIR FRYER WENDY’S SPICY CHICKEN SANDWICH.
Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is a delightful and addictive snack for kids and adults. These bite-sized chicken pieces are not only incredibly flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. The secret to their irresistible crunch lies in the magic of the air fryer, which delivers perfectly crispy results without the need for deep frying.
To prepare this crowd-pleasing treat, marinate bite-sized chicken pieces in a seasoned buttermilk mixture to ensure they are juicy and flavorful. Then, coat them with a seasoned breading mixture, creating a golden and crispy crust when air-fried. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a batch of piping hot, golden-brown popcorn chicken perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces or enjoying. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or a simple snack craving, Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is a quick and delicious choice to satisfy your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Recipe
You’ll love this Air Fryer recipe for homemade popcorn chicken because it combines the irresistible flavors and crunch of your favorite fast-food treat with the convenience and health benefits of air frying. Here’s why you’ll be delighted with this recipe:
- Healthier Alternative: Unlike traditional deep-fried popcorn chicken, this recipe uses the air fryer to achieve the same crispy texture with significantly less oil. It’s a healthier choice for indulging in a beloved comfort food.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu snack cravings. You can have a batch of delicious popcorn chicken ready in no time.
- Customizable Seasonings: You have full control over the seasonings and spices, allowing you to tailor the flavor to your liking. Experiment with different spice blends to create your unique twist on classic popcorn chicken.
- Perfectly Bite-Sized: The bite-sized chicken pieces are fun to eat and ideal for sharing or portion control. They’re great as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a larger meal.
- No Grease Splatters: Using the air fryer eliminates the mess and potential hazards of deep frying. You can enjoy the crispy goodness of popcorn chicken without worrying about hot oil splattering.
- Versatile Dipping Options: Popcorn chicken is fantastic with various dipping sauces, from classic ketchup and ranch dressing to spicy sriracha mayo or honey mustard. You can switch up the flavors with different sauces to suit your mood.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this homemade popcorn chicken. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s sure to become a favorite among all age groups.
- Perfect for Snacking and Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a game day get-together, a movie night, or a casual gathering with friends, this popcorn chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare in batches.
In summary, this Air Fryer recipe for homemade popcorn chicken offers all the joys of a beloved comfort food with the added benefits of being healthier, quick to make, and customizable to your taste preferences. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a crispy and satisfying snack without the guilt or fuss of deep frying.
Ingredients Needed For Homemade Popcorn Chicken
Before making this irresistible homemade popcorn chicken in your air fryer, look at the key ingredients to bring this snack to life. With a few simple components, you can create bite-sized pieces of crispy and flavorful chicken that are perfect for dipping and snacking.
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs: The star of the show, chicken breast or thighs are cut into small, bite-sized pieces. These lean cuts of poultry provide the tender and juicy center of your popcorn chicken.
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk serves as the base for marinating the chicken pieces. It imparts a subtle tangy flavor and helps tenderize the meat, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful.
- All-Purpose Flour: Flour is used for coating the marinated chicken. When air-fried, it creates a crisp outer layer, adding the desired crunch to your popcorn chicken.
- Seasonings and Spices: A combination of seasonings and spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper infuse the chicken with delicious flavor. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, making your popcorn chicken mild or spicy.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder is a secret ingredient that enhances the crispiness of the chicken’s coating. When heated, it creates tiny air pockets, resulting in a lighter and crunchier texture.
- Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: A light coating of cooking spray or olive oil promotes even browning and crispiness when air frying the popcorn chicken.
- Dipping Sauces: While not a part of the popcorn chicken itself, dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are often served alongside to add extra flavor and variety to your snacking experience.
These simple yet essential ingredients combine to create a delightful homemade popcorn chicken full of flavor and satisfying crunch. Now, let’s dive into the process of making this mouthwatering snack!
How to Make Popcorn Chicken in Your Air Fryer
Making crispy and flavorful popcorn chicken in your air fryer is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious snack:
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a medium bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well-coated in the buttermilk. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or 2 hours.
Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness), salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Coat the Chicken:
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Roll each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
Air Fry the Popcorn Chicken:
Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray or use an oil mister to coat it with a thin layer of olive oil. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer has a smaller capacity. Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) f and set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown, crispy, and cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy: Once the popcorn chicken is cooked perfectly, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve your homemade popcorn chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
This simple and delicious air fryer popcorn chicken recipe allows you to enjoy a crispy and flavorful snack or appetizer anytime. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or a satisfying treat for yourself and your loved ones.
Recipe Variations
Certainly, various ways exist to customize and create delicious variations of air fryer popcorn chicken. Here are some recipe variations to try:
- Spicy Popcorn Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading mixture for an extra kick of spice. You can also incorporate hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade for a fiery flavor.
- Honey Mustard Popcorn Chicken: Serve your popcorn chicken with a homemade honey mustard dipping sauce. Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and a dash of mayonnaise for a sweet, tangy dip.
- Parmesan Popcorn Chicken: After air frying, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot popcorn chicken for a cheesy twist. The heat will melt the cheese, creating a delightful topping.
- BBQ Popcorn Chicken: Toss the cooked popcorn chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce before serving. It adds a smoky and tangy flavor that complements the crispy coating.
- Buffalo Popcorn Chicken: Drizzle buffalo sauce over the cooked popcorn chicken for a spicy and tangy twist. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Lemon Pepper Popcorn Chicken: Mix lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper into the breading mixture for a zesty and aromatic flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken before serving.
- Sweet and Sour Popcorn Chicken: Create a sweet and sour sauce by combining pineapple juice, vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Dip the popcorn chicken in this sauce for a delightful, sweet, and tangy experience.
- Teriyaki Popcorn Chicken: Make a teriyaki glaze using soy sauce, white pepper, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Toss the cooked chicken in this glaze for a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
- Ranch Seasoned Popcorn Chicken: Add ranch seasoning to the breading mixture for a burst of ranch flavor. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.
- Garlic Parmesan Popcorn Chicken: Season the breading mixture with garlic powder and grated cheese for a savory and cheesy twist.
- Cajun Popcorn Chicken: Create a Cajun-inspired breading by adding Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture. The result is a spicy and flavorful popcorn chicken.
- Sesame Popcorn Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken in toasted sesame seeds for a nutty and aromatic coating. Serve with a sesame dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Mix and match these variations or create unique combinations to suit your taste preferences. Air fryer crispy popcorn chicken is incredibly versatile, making experimenting with different flavors and ingredients easy.
Pro Tips
Achieving the perfect homemade air fryer popcorn chicken involves a few pro tips to ensure your snack is crispy, flavorful, and delicious. Here are some tips to elevate your popcorn chicken game:
- Evenly-Sized Pieces: Cut chicken pieces into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. This helps all the chicken pieces cook to perfection at the same time.
- Proper Marination: Give your chicken pieces enough time to marinate in the buttermilk mixture. Marinating for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to infuse and helps tenderize the meat. Marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for even better results.
- Shake Off Excess Flour: After coating the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, gently shake them to remove any excess flour. This prevents the coating from becoming too thick and doughy during cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken. This helps create a crispier exterior from the start and ensures even cooking.
- Use an Oil Mister: Instead of drenching the chicken in oil, use an oil mister or cooking spray to mist the chicken pieces lightly. This promotes browning and crispiness without adding excess oil.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch or overlap. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Flip Halfway Through: Flip the chicken pieces halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on all sides. This step is crucial for achieving an evenly crispy texture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on the cooking time, as air fryers can vary slightly. It’s better to check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time to prevent overcooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe.
- Rest and Serve Hot: Allow the cooked popcorn chicken to rest outside the air fryer for a minute or two. This helps the coating set and stay crispy. Serve your homemade popcorn chicken hot for the best experience.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair your popcorn chicken with dipping sauces for added flavor. Popular choices include ketchup, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasoning blends to create unique flavors. Add herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the breading mixture for a personalized touch.
By following these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making homemade air fryer popcorn chicken that’s crispy and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your delicious snack!
Faq’s
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs can be juicier and offer a slightly different flavor.
How long does the buttermilk marination need to be? Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for even better flavor and tenderness.
Can I make this recipe without buttermilk? While buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness to the chicken, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar as a buttermilk alternative.
What should the internal temperature of the chicken be when it’s done? The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Can I use pre-made breading mix for popcorn chicken? You can use pre-made breading mixes or seasoned flour if you prefer a quicker option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Can I freeze air fryer popcorn chicken? Yes, you can freeze air fryer popcorn chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer or oven when ready to enjoy.
How do I reheat leftover popcorn chicken to keep it crispy? To reheat leftover popcorn chicken and maintain its crispiness, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for a few minutes until it’s heated through and crispy again.
Can I make gluten-free popcorn chicken? You can make gluten-free popcorn chicken by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs in the breading mixture. Check that all other ingredients, including the buttermilk, are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with homemade popcorn chicken? Popcorn chicken pairs well with various sides such as fries, coleslaw, a side salad, or even as part of a wrap or sandwich. It’s a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many ways.
Can I make a larger batch for a party or gathering?– Absolutely! You can easily scale the recipe to make a larger batch for a party or gathering. Ensure you have enough space in your air fryer to cook them in batches if necessary.
More Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER TYSON CHICKEN WINGS
- AIR FRYER HONEY BBQ CHICKEN TENDERS
- EASY AIR FRYER CHICKEN WINGS
- AIR FRYER GENERAL TSO’S CHICKEN RECIPE
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN WINGS WITH BUFFALO SAUCE
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Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust for spice level
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, place the bite-sized chicken pieces and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well-coated in the buttermilk. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness), salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Roll each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
- Lightly mist the air fryer basket with cooking spray or use an oil mister to coat it with a thin layer of olive oil.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. You may need to cook in batches if your air fryer has a smaller capacity.
- Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown, crispy, and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once the popcorn chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Serve your homemade popcorn chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
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