Hey y'all! If you're craving a bite-sized snack that's crispy, juicy, and oh-so-irresistible, you're going to love this Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken recipe. Perfect for game day gatherings, quick family dinners, or after-school snacks, these golden nuggets deliver big flavor with less oil, making them a healthier way to enjoy your fast food favorite. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Crispy and golden on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—pure deliciousness in every bite!
- Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthier than fried takeout—uses minimal oil thanks to the air fryer.
- Kid-approved and perfect for parties, snacks, or even your lunchbox.
- Customizable spices and coatings to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless Chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crunch)
- Cooking spray
Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, mixing to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge for best flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper mixed together; the second with a beaten egg; and the third with panko breadcrumbs tossed with olive oil.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Pieces
Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour, then the egg, then the panko, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Air Fry the Popcorn Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in a single layer, leaving space between them. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 9-11 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a serving plate and let cool slightly before digging in. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed for the crispiest results.
- For added spice, stir ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper into the flour mixture.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if preferred.
Variations
- Buffalo Popcorn Chicken: Toss cooked pieces in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan Ranch Style: Add ⅓ cup grated Parmesan and 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Gluten-Free: Swap flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free alternatives.
Required Equipment
- Air fryer
- 3 shallow bowls
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer (optional)
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warmed and crispy again. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ.
- Pair with crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Pack into wraps or tuck into sliders for a fun spin.
Pro Tips
- For even browning, shake or turn the chicken bites halfway through air frying.
- Mist chicken with a little oil spray before cooking for maximum crispiness.
- Let the cooked chicken rest a couple of minutes before serving to lock in juiciness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just be sure to trim excess fat and cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Do I have to marinate the chicken?
Marinating gives the chicken extra tenderness and flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, a quick 10-minute soak works too.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer and ensure crispiness.
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil spray
Instructions
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1In a bowl, marinate the chicken pieces with buttermilk for at least 10 minutes.
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2In a separate bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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3Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
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4Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
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5Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket and lightly spray the tops with oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
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6Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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