Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into small pieces (450g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Breading

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup buttermilk (120mL)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs (112g)
• Olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Season the chicken pieces all over with salt and pepper ensuring even distribution for flavor.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, and paprika. In another shallow dish, beat together the buttermilk and egg. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a medium bowl.
3. Toss a few chicken pieces at a time in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Then coat in the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat the pieces thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded pieces on a baking sheet or plate.
4. Set the air fryer to 400°F and allow it to preheat fully for optimal cooking.
5. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching. Spray lightly with olive oil. Cook for 5 minutes.
6. Flip each chicken piece and spray again lightly with olive oil. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
7. Remove the popcorn chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Cut chicken into uniform small pieces for even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispiness on all sides.
• Use an olive oil spray for a lighter coating without excess oil.
• Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
• Leftover popcorn chicken can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the air fryer to retain crispiness.