Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Serving:

• Dipping sauces (such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
   • Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture and stir to coat.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and baking powder.
3. Coat the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating. Place the coated chicken on a plate.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
   • Fry the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the crispy popcorn chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Enjoy these crispy, flavorful popcorn chicken bites as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or any time you crave something crunchy and delicious!