Irresistibly Easy Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken

Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken is an easy-to-make comfort food perfect for gatherings, complete with juicy chicken and a crunchy coating.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 25

Marinating Time 1

Total Time 1 55

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with shrimp or tofu.
1 cup Buttermilk Can be replaced with regular milk.
2 tablespoons Hot Sauce Adjust to taste.

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
½ teaspoon Black Pepper Can be adjusted to taste.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used and reduced.
1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika adds extra flavor.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional.
¼ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional, adjust for spice.
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Can substitute with Italian seasoning.

For the Breading

1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used.
½ cup Cornstarch Essential for crunch.

For Frying

4 cups Vegetable/Canola Oil Ensure oil is hot enough.

For Dipping

Dipping Sauces (Ketchup, Ranch, Honey Mustard, BBQ Sauce) Enhances flavor experience.

Equipment

Large bowl
Frying pan
Slotted Spoon
Baking sheet

Method

Preparation

Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken breasts, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Prepare Breading: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano until mixed.
Dredge Chicken: Remove marinated chicken, allow excess buttermilk to drip, and dredge in flour mixture. Place on a baking sheet.
Fry Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, turning for even browning.
Drain and Serve: Remove chicken from oil using a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra crispiness, double-dredge the chicken. Monitor oil temperature for best results and don't overcrowd the pan while frying. Allow resting time on paper towels to maintain crunchiness.

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