Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken – Irresistible Delight!

There’s something irresistibly delightful about crispy, golden-brown Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Imagine biting into a piece that crunches just right while juicy chicken bursts with flavor, sending your taste buds into a frenzy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone within a three-block radius to come running for a taste.

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Now, let me take you back to a family movie night when I first made this dish. My kids were glued to the screen, captivated by their movie while I was secretly wishing I had made more popcorn chicken. Each bite elicited delighted squeals and requests for “just one more piece.” It was an explosion of flavor and happiness – perfect for any gathering or simply those days when you need a little extra joy.

I remember the first time my friends tasted this recipe; their faces lit up like fireworks! They couldn’t stop raving about how crispy yet tender it was.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.

• Buttermilk: This ingredient ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful; opt for fresh buttermilk if possible.

• All-Purpose Flour: A classic choice for breading that creates a beautiful crunch; use whole wheat for added nutrition.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra level of crunch; feel free to use seasoned panko for added flavor.

• Garlic Powder: This gives a warm depth of flavor; don’t be shy—garlic is your friend here!

• Onion Powder: This adds sweetness and depth; it’s essential in achieving that classic fried chicken taste.

• Smoked Paprika: For a subtle smoky flavor; it brings the zing without overpowering the dish.

• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate everything; always season well to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: To achieve that golden crispiness without excess oil; choose your favorite oil for added taste.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and soak them in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat while infusing flavor.

Create the Breading Mixture: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Dredge the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk bath and coat it generously with the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly so the coating sticks well; nobody likes soggy breading.

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. A preheated air fryer ensures those lovely pieces turn out crispy!

Cook the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil before cooking for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Shake halfway through for even crispiness!

Enjoy! Once done, let them cool slightly before diving in! Serve these crunchy delights with your favorite dipping sauce—trust me; they’ll disappear faster than you can say “popcorn chicken.”

Now grab some napkins because you’re going to want them handy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect air fryer popcorn chicken, marinate the chicken first, then coat it in seasoned breading before air frying. This ensures maximum flavor and crispiness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your air fryer popcorn chicken with different spices or sauces. Try adding garlic powder, paprika, or even parmesan cheese for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes to restore crispiness.

Cooking this dish always reminds me of family game nights where everyone gathered around to munch on my crunchy popcorn chicken while cheering loudly at the TV.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for air fryer popcorn chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating and breading for best results.

What dipping sauces pair well with popcorn chicken?

Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard are all delicious options!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for coating.

Print

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

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• Author: homerecipeseasy
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 4 servings 1x

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Description

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that offers a perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown coating and juicy, flavorful chicken. This delightful dish is easy to prepare and customizable, making it a favorite for family movie nights or casual gatherings. With minimal effort, you can create a mouthwatering snack that will have everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for drizzling)

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking oil.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken pieces in the breading. Customize by adding spices like cayenne pepper or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture.