Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
User Reviews
5
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
Description
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken provides a convenient way to enjoy crisp chicken bites using basic pantry ingredients. The process starts by toasting panko breadcrumbs with salt to boost their flavor and crunch. Chicken breasts are cut into roughly ¾-inch cubes, seasoned, then coated first with flour and then egg wash to ensure the spiced panko adheres well. The breading mixture is flavored with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and a hint of cayenne pepper for subtle heat. Air frying at 400 degrees F gives a crisp crust without deep frying, making cleanup easier while maintaining a satisfying texture.
The popcorn chicken pieces cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer basket, which should be sprayed with oil and shaken halfway through to promote even browning. This finger food is versatile, pairing well with classic condiments or as an addition to salads or wraps. Because the chicken is cubed and breaded carefully, it crisps nicely while remaining juicy inside.
For storage, uncooked popcorn chicken can be frozen in a single layer separated by parchment to prevent sticking, then cooked from frozen. This makes for a handy make-ahead snack option. Cooked pieces are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly to restore crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- 1 pound boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 egg large
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- black pepper freshly ground
- olive oil spray form
- ketchup Optional, for dipping, low fat ranch dressing
- ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
- honey mustard
- marinara sauce
Instructions
- Add oil to a medium skillet over medium low heat. Add the panko and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Place flour and ¼ teaspoon salt on a large plate.
- Toast panko for about 4 minutes or until just golden, stirring every 30 seconds to evenly brown. Transfer crumbs to a plate.
- Place egg in a bowl, add 1 teaspoon water and beat until uniform.
- Cut chicken into ¾-inch cubes (about the size of a small dice), season with ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper, to taste, then set up your dredging station. You should have about 60 cubes.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano and cayenne (if using) and black pepper, to taste, to the toasted panko and place the plate on the other side of the egg bowl.
- Working with about 15 pieces at a time, dredge in flour, lightly coating all sides.
- Then, egg, allowing excess to drip off (I like to use tongs and wipe the excess off on the side of the bowl). Next add the pieces to the panko mixture and coat all sides evenly, pressing crumbs to make sure they adhere evenly. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F. Spray the basket with olive oil.
- Add about 30 pieces to the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each piece so they get crispy. Spray the top with oil.
- Cook for 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cook time. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Freeze the uncooked chicken pieces in a single layer separated by parchment paper for easy storage and cooking later.
- Cook chicken pieces in batches without overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping.
- Shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to promote uniform browning on all sides.
- Use a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, ranch, BBQ, honey mustard, or marinara to accompany the popcorn chicken.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 283 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 15 pieces | |
| Calories | 283kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 21g | 7% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 8g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g | 8% |
| Cholesterol | 129mg | 43% |
| Sodium | 385mg | 16% |
| Fiber | 1.5g | 6% |
| Sugar | 2g | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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