Air-Fryer Popcorn Chicken: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Popcorn chicken is a beloved snack food that can be enjoyed by all ages. It is healthier than store-bought but still deliciously crispy and crunchy, and juicy on the inside. You can make it right in your own kitchen using an air fryer. This recipe is easy, healthy, and just as delicious as the deep-fried version. You can make it in under 30 minutes.

How do I cook popcorn chicken in the air fryer?

Preparation and ingredients

Popcorn chicken is a beloved snack food that can be enjoyed by all ages. It is healthier than store-bought but still deliciously crispy and crunchy, and juicy on the inside. The air fryer is a game changer when it comes to cooking frozen foods, producing perfectly crispy and juicy results with minimal oil and in a fraction of the time it would take to oven-bake.

To make popcorn chicken in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Eggs
• Buttermilk or milk
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Baking powder
• Olive oil or non-stick cooking spray

You may also want to add some spices to your flour mixture, such as onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, and sage. Additionally, you can try adding hot sauce to your egg and milk mixture for a bit more flavor.

Before cooking, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also choose to coat the chicken pieces in flour, followed by an egg mixture, and then breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior. This step is optional but will give your popcorn chicken an extra crunchy texture.

Once your chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces and coated (if desired), you can place them in the air fryer. Be sure not to crowd the chicken, as they need space between each piece to get crispy. Mist the chicken with cooking spray or olive oil to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Preheat your air fryer to between 390-400°F. The exact temperature may depend on your specific air fryer model, so be sure to refer to the manual for the best results.

Now, you are ready to cook your popcorn chicken! Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping them once halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for popcorn chicken in an air fryer depend on the quantity of chicken and the desired level of crispiness. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to between 390 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

For a batch of around 30 pieces of chicken, a cooking time of 8 minutes is recommended, shaking the basket halfway through. For a similar quantity, another recipe suggests 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken pieces once halfway through. A third recipe recommends 5 minutes of total cooking time for a similar quantity, with the basket shaken and the chicken misted with cooking spray halfway through.

For a smaller batch, one recipe recommends 2-3 minutes of cooking time, or until the chicken is crispy and warm. Another recipe recommends 4 minutes, shaking the basket and misting the chicken with cooking spray halfway through, and then continuing to cook for 4-5 more minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the centre of the chicken should read at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Popcorn chicken can also be cooked from frozen in an air fryer. One recipe recommends misting the basket insert with oil, adding the chicken, misting the chicken with oil, and then air frying at 390 degrees for 14 minutes, flipping and re-misting with oil halfway through.

Cooking techniques

Popcorn chicken is a beloved snack food that can be cooked in an air fryer in under 30 minutes. The air fryer method is healthier than deep-fried chicken, but still results in a yummy, bite-sized crisp and crunch.

Firstly, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, depending on your preference. In a bowl, mix together flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with buttermilk or milk. In a third bowl, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. You can toast these in a little olive oil beforehand for a crispier texture. If you want to add extra flavour, mix in garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper.

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well coated. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Spray the chicken with oil and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time and spray again with oil to ensure even crispiness.

You can freeze any leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

How to freeze and reheat

To freeze and reheat your popcorn chicken, follow these simple steps:

Start by allowing the cooked popcorn chicken to cool completely. Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet or tray, ensuring they are spaced out and not touching. This step prevents the chicken pieces from freezing together in a large clump. Put the tray in the freezer and leave until the pieces are frozen solid. This method prevents the chicken from freezing into a solid block, ensuring you can easily take out portions as needed. Once the pieces are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.

When properly stored, your popcorn chicken can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, take out the desired portion and heat them in the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes at 350°F. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven or a toaster oven. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F and cook for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For a toaster oven, set the temperature to 400°F and reheat for approximately 5 minutes.

You can also reheat the frozen popcorn chicken in a microwave, but the results may vary, and the chicken may become soggy. If using a microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel. Heat on high for 1 to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave's power, or until heated through. Let the chicken stand for 30 seconds before serving, as it will be extremely hot.

Now you can enjoy your crispy, delicious popcorn chicken any time, straight from the freezer!

Dipping sauces

Popcorn chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and dipping sauces. Here are some popular options for dipping sauces to serve with your air-fried popcorn chicken:

Honey Mustard

A classic combination, honey mustard is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, complementing the crispy and juicy popcorn chicken.

Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce, with its smokey and slightly sweet flavour, is a great option to enhance the flavour of the chicken.

Ranch

Ranch dressing is a popular choice for dipping sauces, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the crispy chicken.

Hot Sauce

For those who like it spicy, hot sauce adds a kick to your popcorn chicken. You can choose from a variety of hot sauces, such as buffalo, sriracha, or chilli garlic.

Ketchup

A traditional favourite, ketchup adds a sweet and tangy twist to your popcorn chicken.

Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce, with its rich and herby flavour, is a great option for those who want a more sophisticated dip.

Feel free to experiment with different sauces and find your perfect pairing! You can also try making your own sauces at home to elevate your popcorn chicken experience.

Frequently asked questions