Description:
This air fryer popcorn chicken is crispy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, these bite-sized chicken pieces are easy to make and even easier to devour.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ketchup
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Popcorn Chicken:
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a plate and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Notes:
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating mixture.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free option.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Enjoy your crispy and delicious air fryer popcorn chicken, a surefire crowd-pleaser! 🍗✨