Description
This Crispy Popcorn Chicken recipe features tender, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a flavorful flour and garlic powder mixture, dipped in buttermilk, and rolled in crunchy panko breadcrumbs before being deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this dish offers a satisfying crunch with juicy chicken inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 3 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt, plus more to serve
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Frying
- 1 cup vegetable or canola oil, for frying
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1½ teaspoons of salt, and garlic powder to create the seasoned flour mixture.
- Prepare wet ingredients: Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl, which will be used to dip the chicken and help the breadcrumbs stick.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a plate, ready for coating the chicken.
- Coat chicken with flour: Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly coated for optimal texture.
- Dip in buttermilk: Dip the floured chicken pieces into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off before breadcrumbing.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll each buttermilk-coated chicken piece in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange coated chicken: Place the fully coated chicken pieces on a platter to rest momentarily before frying.
- Heat oil: In a deep frying pan, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), optimal for frying.
- Fry chicken in batches: Fry the chicken pieces in small batches, ensuring there is enough space between pieces to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Cook thoroughly: Fry, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the fried chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil for a healthier finish.
- Season and serve: While still warm, lightly sprinkle additional salt over the chicken if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature stays at 350°F for even frying and crispy texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent sogginess.
- Use a thermometer to check chicken internal temperature for safe consumption.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to help retain crispiness.
