Crispy Popcorn Chicken

🍗 Crispy Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks

1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Optional: dash of hot sauce

For the Breading:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat

For Frying:

Vegetable oil for deep frying

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🔥 Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a bowl, mix chicken with buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and hot sauce if using.

Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).

2. Prepare the Breading:

In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and all seasoning ingredients.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Remove chicken from the marinade (shake off excess).

Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing it in well for a thick coating.

For extra crispy results: dip in buttermilk again and re-coat in flour mixture.

4. Fry:

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.

Fry chicken in small batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces: ranch, honey mustard, buffalo, or sweet chili.