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If you're a fan of crispy, flavorful chicken bites that are easy to make and healthier than traditional fried chicken, then you're in for a treat! In this article, we'll share with you a mouthwatering recipe for air fryer popcorn chicken. This recipe combines the convenience of an air fryer with the irresistible taste and texture of popcorn chicken. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Recipe Tips:
• Before diving into the recipe, here are a few tips to ensure that your air fryer popcorn chicken turns out perfectly every time:
• Use boneless, skinless chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs work well for this recipe. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to resemble popcorn chicken.
• Marinate the chicken: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a seasoned mixture of your choice for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator. This will help tenderize the meat and enhance its taste.
• Preheat your air fryer: To achieve a crispy exterior, preheat your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes before cooking the chicken.
• Shake the basket: While cooking, shake the air fryer basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken from sticking together.
• Serve immediately: Popcorn chicken is best enjoyed right out of the air fryer when it's still hot and crispy.
The Recipe:
Now let's get to the star of the show – the air fryer popcorn chicken recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray
Instructions:
• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
• In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly.
• Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't touch each other.
• Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help achieve a golden brown color.
• Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Once the chicken is crispy and golden brown, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Substitutes:
If you'd like to add some extra flavor or try different variations, here are a few substitutes you can consider
• Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning to give your popcorn chicken a unique twist.
• Coating: If you prefer a lighter coating, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Air fryer popcorn chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you
• Dipping Sauces: Serve your popcorn chicken with an array of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or buffalo sauce. This adds an extra layer of flavor and allows everyone to customize their chicken bites to their liking.
• Salad Topping: Add the air fryer popcorn chicken to a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite dressing for a satisfying and protein-packed salad.
Wraps or Tacos: Fill tortillas or taco shells with the crispy chicken, along with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of sauce. This creates a delicious handheld meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.• Slider Sandwiches: Place the popcorn chicken between mini burger buns, and add some pickles, lettuce, and a dollop of sauce. These bite-sized sliders are great for parties or as a fun meal option for kids.
• Game Day Snack: Serve the air fryer popcorn chicken as a crowd-pleasing appetizer during game days or gatherings. Pair it with other finger foods like potato wedges, onion rings, or mozzarella sticks for a delicious spread.
Air fryer popcorn chicken is a fantastic recipe that brings together the crispy goodness of traditional popcorn chicken with the convenience and health benefits of air frying. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a flavorful and guilt-free snack or appetizer that will satisfy your cravings.
Remember to marinate the chicken for extra tenderness and flavor, and don't forget to preheat your air fryer for optimal results. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and coatings to add your own personal touch to the recipe.
Whether you're enjoying it on its own or exploring various serving suggestions, this air fryer popcorn chicken is sure to be a hit. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to indulge in crispy perfection with this delicious recipe!
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