Regular Popcorn Chicken® Combo

Savor the Regular Popcorn Chicken® Combo, featuring crispy chicken bites, tasty sides, and dipping sauces. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!

$10.95/ Kcal: 2860KJ

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Ingredients and Calories

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. This method also allows the chicken to marinate effectively. Once cut, place the chicken pieces into a bowl, preparing for marination. This process is vital for enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, setting the stage for a delicious meal.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Pour buttermilk over the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged. The acidity in the buttermilk will help to tenderize the meat, while also imparting a rich flavor. Season the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and some black pepper for additional taste. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, but overnight marination will yield the best results for flavor absorption.

Step 3: Making the Coating

While the chicken marinates, prepare the dry coating mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. This combination will create a flavorful and crunchy exterior for the popcorn chicken. Ensure all ingredients are well mixed, allowing for consistent coating on each piece of chicken.

Step 4: Dredging the Chicken

Once the marination time has elapsed, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Allow any excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge each piece in the prepared flour mixture. Be sure to coat each piece thoroughly, pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure adherence. After coating, set the chicken pieces aside on a plate, ready for frying. This crucial step is what gives the popcorn chicken its signature crunch.

Step 5: Heating the Oil

In a large, deep skillet or frying pot, heat approximately 2 cups of oil over medium-high heat. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). To test the readiness of the oil, drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Proper oil temperature is essential for achieving a crispy texture while preventing the coating from burning during the frying process.

Step 6: Frying the Popcorn Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in small batches for about 4 to 6 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally for even cooking. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown exterior while ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a wire rack, allowing excess oil to drain.

Step 7: Preparing the Sides

While the chicken cools slightly, you can prepare the sides for the combo. For crispy French fries, either fry pre-cut fries in a separate pot or bake them according to package instructions until golden brown. To make coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a bowl, then mix with a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt until well blended. This refreshing side adds a nice crunch to the meal.

Step 8: Assembling the Combo

Now that everything is ready, assemble your Regular Popcorn Chicken® Combo. On a large serving platter, arrange the crispy popcorn chicken alongside the French fries and a generous scoop of coleslaw. You can also include dipping sauces such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard for added flavor. This vibrant presentation is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a fun family dinner.