Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Imagine biting into perfectly crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, where the crunch meets tender, juicy chicken bliss. It’s a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds and leaves you begging for more. The aroma wafting through the kitchen is so mouthwatering that even the neighbors will be knocking at your door asking for a taste. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a reason to gather everyone around. For more inspiration, check out this appetizer recipes recipe.

Now, let me take you back to a memorable movie night with friends. We had our popcorn ready, but when I pulled out this Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, it instantly stole the show! Picture everyone’s delighted expressions as they devoured these crunchy bites, dipping them into their favorite sauces. Trust me, this recipe will turn any occasion into a celebration filled with laughter and good times.

I still remember my niece’s face lighting up when I served this crispy delight during her birthday party—it was truly priceless!

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Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless Chicken Thighs: These stay juicier compared to breasts and offer a richer flavor in every bite.

• Buttermilk: This helps tenderize the chicken while adding a delightful tangy flavor that enhances the overall dish.

• All-Purpose Flour: Use regular flour for coating; it creates that satisfying crispiness we all love in fried foods.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra crunch factor—trust me, you want panko for that perfect texture!

• Paprika: For color and flavor; smoked paprika gives an added depth that elevates your popcorn chicken experience.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for seasoning; it adds a punch of flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your popcorn chicken.

• Cooking Spray: A light coat ensures everything gets crispy without drowning in oil—your waistline will thank you!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Marinate the Chicken: Start by combining boneless chicken thighs and buttermilk in a bowl. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge so the flavors can develop beautifully.

Prepare the Coating Mixture: In another bowl, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination creates that irresistible crust we all crave.

Dredge the Chicken: Remove each piece of marinated chicken from buttermilk and dip it into your flour mixture. Ensure every inch is coated; this step is key for maximum crunch!

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking right from the start.

Air Fry the Chicken Bites: Arrange your coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to ensure they become golden brown and crispy.

Cook Until Perfectly Crisped: Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Shake halfway through for even crispiness—trust me; it makes a difference!

Now sit back and let that tantalizing aroma fill your kitchen as you anticipate devouring these amazing bites of joy! Enjoy these delectable nuggets straight out of the air fryer or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce—you can’t go wrong either way!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the crispiest Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, coat your chicken pieces in seasoned flour, then spray them lightly with oil before air frying. This sequence ensures an even cook and a delightful crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix up the spices! Add cayenne for heat, garlic powder for a savory kick, or even parmesan cheese for an Italian twist. Customize it to reflect your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Air Fryer 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 brings back memories of family movie nights! Everyone gathered around, munching on these crispy bites while enjoying our favorite flicks made it extra special.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken?

Absolutely! Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time.

How do I make Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken spicier?

Add more cayenne or toss with buffalo sauce after cooking.

What’s the best way to serve Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken?

Serve it hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.

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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

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• Author: Teprod
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the crispy delight of Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, where juicy chicken meets a perfect crunchy coating. This easy-to-make dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration starter that will have everyone reaching for more. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these flavorful bites paired with your favorite dipping sauces are sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken thighs and buttermilk in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Coating: In another bowl, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat in the flour mixture thoroughly.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Air Fry: Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking spray.
6. Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown, shaking halfway through.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 pieces (110g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added heat, mix cayenne pepper into the coating or toss the cooked chicken with buffalo sauce. Customize flavors by adding Parmesan cheese or herbs to the breadcrumb mix. Ensure even cooking by cutting chicken into uniform pieces.