Popcorn Chicken: A Delicious Snack for Any Occasion

Popcorn chicken is a popular snack that is loved by people of all ages. It’s a crunchy and delicious bite-sized chicken that is easy to make and goes well with any dip. In this article, we will teach you how to make popcorn chicken, KFC-style, at home. Our recipe is easy to follow and will give you a delicious result that will rival any restaurant.

What is Popcorn Chicken?

Popcorn chicken is a type of fried chicken that is cut into small pieces and coated with seasoned flour or breadcrumbs. The name “popcorn chicken” comes from the fact that the chicken looks like small pieces of popcorn. This snack is often served with a dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

The History of Popcorn Chicken

Popcorn chicken has been around for many years. It was first introduced by KFC in the 1990s as a way to appeal to younger customers. The snack was an instant hit and has since become a popular menu item at many fast-food restaurants.

Why Make Popcorn Chicken at Home?

If you’re a fan of KFC’s popcorn chicken, making it at home can save you time and money. Plus, you can control the ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Our recipe uses common pantry staples and is easy to customize based on your preferences. Additionally, making popcorn chicken at home can be a fun activity to do with family or friends, and the end result is a delicious snack that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 3 cups vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, then into the flour mixture, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
6. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve the popcorn chicken with your favorite dip.

Tips and Tricks: Popcorn Chicken

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful popcorn chicken.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from becoming greasy.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
• Serve the popcorn chicken immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Popcorn Chicken

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn chicken, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Baked Popcorn Chicken: Instead of frying your chicken, try baking it in the oven. Simply coat your chicken in a mixture of whole wheat breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Then, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
2. Air-Fried Popcorn Chicken: Another way to enjoy crispy popcorn chicken without the added oil and fat is to air-fry it. To do this, simply coat your chicken in a mixture of almond flour, spices, and egg, and then cook it in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Cauliflower Popcorn “Chicken”: For a vegetarian twist on traditional popcorn chicken, try using cauliflower instead. Simply cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized pieces, coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and tender.
4. Grilled Popcorn Chicken: Grilling your chicken is another great option for a healthier version of this classic snack. Simply marinate your chicken in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice, and then grill it until cooked through. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a flavorful and satisfying snack.

By choosing healthier cooking methods and ingredients, you can enjoy the delicious taste and texture of popcorn chicken without all the added calories and fat. Give one of these options a try and see for yourself how easy it is to make a healthier version of this popular snack.

Tips for Success: Popcorn Chicken

To ensure the best possible outcome for your homemade popcorn chicken, here are a few additional tips:

1. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
2. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb option.
3. If you want a crispier coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the dipping process in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
4. You can experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of your popcorn chicken. Some great additions include chili powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning.
5. Serve your popcorn chicken with a variety of dips, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce, to add extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Popcorn chicken at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy this delicious snack without having to go to a restaurant. Our recipe is simple and uses basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. By following our tips and tricks, you can create a perfect batch of KFC-style popcorn chicken that will impress your family and friends. So what are you waiting for? Grab some chicken, turn on the stove, and get ready to enjoy some crispy, flavorful bites!

See also: Chicken Pakodi The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious

Popcorn Chicken: A Delicious Snack for Any Occasion

Recipe by SAYEDCourse: SnacksCuisine: Other world cuisineDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

405

kcal

Total time

25

minutes

Popcorn chicken is a popular snack that consists of bite-sized pieces of chicken that have been breaded and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. The name “popcorn chicken” comes from the fact that the small pieces of chicken resemble popcorn in size and shape. The chicken is typically seasoned with a variety of spices and served with dipping sauce, making it a flavorful and satisfying snack that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. While traditional popcorn chicken is often high in calories and fat due to the deep-frying process, there are plenty of healthier alternatives that can be made using alternative cooking methods and ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• Oil for frying

Directions

• In a bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
• In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
• Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
• Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs.
• Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
• Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken pieces from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Nutrition Facts: Calories: 405 | Total Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 1054mg | Total Carbohydrates: 39g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Protein: 34g

FAQs

1. Is popcorn chicken healthy?

• Popcorn chicken is not the healthiest snack option as it is usually deep-fried and high in calories and fat. However, you can try healthier alternatives such as baked or grilled popcorn chicken to reduce the fat and calorie content.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs have a higher fat content, which can make the popcorn chicken more flavorful and juicy.

3. How long can I store leftover popcorn chicken?

• You can store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer until it is heated through and crispy.

4. Can I freeze popcorn chicken?

• Yes, you can freeze popcorn chicken. Place the cooked and cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place the frozen chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer until it is heated through and crispy.

5. What dipping sauces go well with popcorn chicken?

• Some popular dipping sauces that go well with popcorn chicken are ketchup, ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and sweet chili sauce.