Looking for the best way to make a tasty, crispy popcorn chicken? This air fryer popcorn chicken recipe is the best! With its crispy coating and much less oil than traditional deep frying, it's a quick snack that the whole family will love.
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This is great for meal prep, easy to freeze, and kids love it. No need to buy processed chicken nuggets from the store. Perfect as a party appetizer or for game day, this will be your favorite air fryer recipe.
If you love this, then you need to check out my popular chicken recipes such as Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders, Sticky Sweet Chili Chicken Thighs, and Spicy Sesame Chicken.
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Here's what you need to make popcorn chicken in the air fryer
- boneless skinless chicken thighs
- panko breadcrumbs
- egg white
- baking powder
- salt
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- smoked paprika
- black pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
How to make Popcorn Chicken In Air Fryer
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is easy to make, here are my step-by-step instructions.
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Add egg white
- Step 3: Coat with panko breading
- Step 4: Air fry
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken.
- Coat with Breading: Add the egg white to the seasoned chicken and mix until well combined. Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a large plate or bowl. Coat each chicken piece evenly in the breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Spray the chicken generously with avocado oil.
- Cook: Air fry for 15 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Tip: Serve with honey mustard, sweet chili sauce, or a creamy garlic dip for a delicious pairing.
Substitutions
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Use chicken breasts or chicken tenders.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Try regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Egg White: Substitute with a whole egg or flax egg.
- Baking Powder: Use cornstarch or self-rising flour.
- Salt: Swap with sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
- Garlic Powder: Use fresh garlic or garlic salt.
- Onion Powder: Try chopped onions or onion flakes.
- Smoked Paprika: Use regular paprika or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Black Pepper: Substitute with white pepper or cayenne pepper.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
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How to store and reheat Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
- To store Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, preheat your air fryer basket to 350 degrees F and lightly spray with cooking spray to crisp up the coating. Heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Tips for success
- Use Small Pieces: Cut chicken into small pieces for a quicker and more even layer during air frying.
- Crispy Texture: Coat the chicken in a flour mixture and spray with oil to get that perfect golden brown and crispy texture.
- Do not crowd the air fryer: For crispy and even cooked popcorn chicken, do not crowd the air fryer basket or tray.
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken - FAQs
Absolutely! Try buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, sweet chili sauce or honey mustard as your favorite dipping sauce.
Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces and cook for the right time to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken.
- Coat with Breading: Add the egg white to the seasoned chicken and mix until well combined. Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a large plate or bowl. Coat each chicken piece evenly in the breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Spray the chicken generously with avocado oil.
- Cook: Air fry for 15 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Mention @eatwithcarmen in all social platformsFood safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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