Print

Crispy Popcorn Chicken Bites

crispy popcorn chicken bites - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy popcorn chicken bites are an easy homemade snack with a crunchy coating and juicy interior, perfect for any occasion and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) fresh skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice as substitute)
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt, or to taste
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • About 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable oil for frying
  • Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for heat
  • Optional: ¼ cup (25 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese mixed into panko

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breast into 1 to 1½ inch bite-sized pieces, keeping pieces uniform.
  2. Place chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk, stir to coat, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  3. In another bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. For extra crispiness, double-dip by dipping back into buttermilk briefly, then again into the dry mix.
  6. Fry chicken bites in small batches for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
  7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bites to a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, spicy mayo, or ketchup.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to keep coating crispy and avoid greasy bites. Use a cooling rack instead of paper towels to keep bites crunchy. Marinate chicken up to 2 hours ahead for best flavor and tenderness. For a healthier option, use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn chicken, crispy chicken bites, homemade snack, easy chicken recipe, fried chicken, kid-friendly snack

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/crispy-popcorn-chicken-bites-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-ideas/