Craving a delicious and comforting snack that’s perfect for cozy nights in? Look no further than this Homemade Popcorn Chicken recipe! These bite-sized pieces of crispy, golden goodness are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure they’re cooked to perfection every time. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Homemade Popcorn Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, place the chicken pieces and pour the buttermilk over them. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed. This seasoned flour will give your popcorn chicken a flavorful and crunchy coating.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature for best results.
4. Take a piece of chicken from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour and carefully place it into the hot oil. Repeat with a few more pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the popcorn chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Continue frying the remaining chicken pieces, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain the oil temperature. Remember, frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken, so work in batches for the best crunch!
7. Once all the popcorn chicken is cooked, serve it hot and crispy alongside your favorite dipping sauce or on a bed of mixed greens for a tasty twist. Enjoy the crunchy exterior giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken with every bite – perfect for snacking or as part of a cozy meal.
Making Homemade Popcorn Chicken is a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic fast-food favorite from the comfort of your own kitchen. Experiment with different seasonings or try a spicy version by adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Whether you’re hosting a movie night or looking for a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So next time you’re in the mood for a tasty treat, whip up a batch of these crispy delights and get ready to savor every bite!
