Regular Popcorn Chicken®
Regular Popcorn Chicken®
Enjoy Regular Popcorn Chicken®, crispy and seasoned to perfection. Perfect for snacking or sharing, this bite-sized delight is a crowd-pleaser!
$3.25/ Kcal: 1006KJ
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Ingredients and Calories
| Ingredient | Calories |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast (1 lb) | 480 |
| Buttermilk (1 cup) | 150 |
| All-purpose flour (1 cup) | 455 |
| Cornstarch (1/2 cup) | 60 |
| Salt (1 tsp) | 0 |
| Black pepper (1 tsp) | 6 |
| Paprika (1 tsp) | 6 |
| Garlic powder (1 tsp) | 5 |
| Onion powder (1 tsp) | 8 |
| Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp) | 1 |
| Baking powder (1 tsp) | 0 |
| Oil (for frying, 2 cups) | 400 |
| Total Calories | 1,571 |
Step 1: Cutting the Chicken
Begin by slicing the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and are easy to enjoy. The smaller pieces will also absorb the marinade better, enhancing the overall flavor. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure consistent cooking. Once cut, set the pieces aside to prepare for marination.
Step 2: Marinating in Buttermilk
Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. Season the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and black pepper for added flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. For optimal taste, marinating overnight is even better, allowing the chicken to fully absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Preparing the Coating Mixture
While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. This mixture will create a crispy, flavorful crust for the chicken. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined to ensure every piece will be evenly coated.
Step 4: Dredging the Chicken
Once the marination is complete, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let any excess buttermilk drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure it adheres properly. After coating, place the chicken pieces on a clean plate, ready for frying. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious crunch.
Step 5: Heating the Oil
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 cups of oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach a temperature of around 350°F (175°C) for frying. To test the oil’s readiness, sprinkle a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Proper oil temperature is essential for achieving a crispy texture without burning the coating.
Step 6: Frying the Popcorn Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying them in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 4 to 6 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally for even cooking. Look for a golden-brown color and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Letting Them Rest
Allow the popcorn chicken to rest on the wire rack for a few minutes. This resting period is important for maintaining the crispy texture, as it allows steam to escape. While the chicken cools slightly, you can prepare any dipping sauces that might accompany your dish, such as ranch or barbecue sauce, which pair well with the flavorful chicken bites.
Step 8: Serving and Enjoying
Serve the popcorn chicken on a large platter, perfect for sharing. You can garnish with fresh herbs or offer a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the experience. This dish is ideal for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings. Enjoy the crunchy, juicy bites while sharing laughter and good times with friends and family, making every moment delicious.
