How to Make Crispy Chicken Popcorn at Home

Chicken popcorn is a bite-sized, crispy, and juicy snack that is loved by people of all ages. These golden, crunchy chicken bites are perfect for parties, evening snacks, or even as a side dish for your meals. Instead of relying on fast-food versions, why not make them at home with fresh ingredients and full control over the flavors?

In this detailed recipe, we’ll show you how to make crispy and juicy chicken popcorn that tastes just like your favorite restaurant-style version—if not better!

Ingredients for Chicken Popcorn

For the Chicken Marinade:

2 boneless chicken breasts (cut into small bite-sized cubes)
½ cup buttermilk (or ¼ cup yogurt mixed with ¼ cup milk)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon paprika (for a smoky flavor)
½ teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for extra spice)

For the Crispy Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornflour (for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Final Coating & Frying:

2 eggs (beaten)
2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Oil for deep frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix buttermilk (or yogurt-milk mixture), garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, paprika, and red chili powder.
Add the chicken cubes and coat them well in the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornflour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
In another bowl, beat 2 eggs and set aside.
Pour breadcrumbs into a separate plate.

Step 3: Coating the Chicken

Take a piece of marinated chicken, dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s well coated.
Dip it into the beaten egg to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Frying the Chicken Popcorn

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy.
Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serving and Enjoying

Serve the hot and crispy chicken popcorn with ketchup, garlic mayo, ranch dressing, or spicy dip.
Garnish with chopped parsley or extra chili flakes for added flavor.
Enjoy with a refreshing drink or a side of crispy fries!

Baking & Air Fryer Option

If you want a healthier version of chicken popcorn, try baking or air frying them:

source

Baking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spray lightly with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Air Fryer Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Spray with a little oil and air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

source

Tips for the Best Chicken Popcorn

Marinate for at least 1 hour to ensure the chicken is juicy and flavorful.
Use cornflour and panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Double coat for extra crispiness—dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice!
Maintain oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
For a spicy kick, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mix.

source

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor
✔ Easy to make at home with simple ingredients
✔ Healthier than store-bought versions
✔ Perfect for snacks, kids' lunchboxes, or party appetizers

Make this delicious homemade chicken popcorn today and enjoy a crispy, flavorful snack that’s better than takeout!

source