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Homemade Popcorn Chicken

Deliciously crispy and seasoned, homemade popcorn chicken is the perfect snack for gatherings, game days, or family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups buttermilk Can substitute with regular milk and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Oil for frying to fry the chicken Use enough to cover about an inch in the skillet.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place chicken breast pieces in a large bowl and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
Create the Coating
  1. In another bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the coating mixture.
Heat the Oil
  1. Heat about an inch of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until a small drop of batter sizzles upon contact.
Coat the Chicken
  1. Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then return to buttermilk briefly before coating again in the flour mixture.
Fry the Chicken
  1. Carefully place coated chicken pieces into hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent lowering the oil temperature.
Drain and Serve
  1. Remove popcorn chicken from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.