Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 2 eggs, whisked; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Cooking spray

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Short Description

Crispy, spicy, and absolutely addictive, Air Fryer Buffalo Popcorn Chicken is the perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. This easy-to-make recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a fraction of the oil, thanks to the air fryer. Coated in a flavorful breading and tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, these bite-sized chicken pieces are crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative – Using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil while still delivering a crispy texture.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or last-minute snack.
Crowd-Pleaser – Whether it’s for game day, parties, or family dinners, everyone will love these spicy, bite-sized pieces.
Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spiciness to your preference by altering the buffalo sauce or adding extra seasonings.
Kid-Friendly – Skip the buffalo sauce for a milder version that kids will enjoy.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Eggs
Panko breadcrumbs
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Buffalo sauce
Unsalted butter
Cooking spray

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Set Up Breading Stations: In three separate bowls, place flour in the first, whisked eggs in the second, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix it with buffalo sauce over low heat until well combined.
Toss the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl and toss with the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Variations

Baked Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs.
Extra Crispy: Double coat the chicken by dipping it in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
Milder Flavor: Reduce the buffalo sauce or use a honey buffalo sauce for a sweeter touch.
Different Sauce: Try BBQ, teriyaki, or garlic parmesan sauce instead of buffalo sauce.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked popcorn chicken on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.

FAQs

How do I make this less spicy?

Use mild buffalo sauce or mix buffalo sauce with honey to tone down the heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marination is not necessary, but soaking in buttermilk for 30 minutes enhances tenderness.

Can I cook these in the oven instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is dry before breading and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.

Can I use a different sauce?

Absolutely! BBQ, honey mustard, teriyaki, or garlic parmesan are great alternatives.

What’s the best way to make them extra crispy?

Double coat the chicken and lightly spray with oil before air frying.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before air frying.

Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures even cooking and crispiness.

What dipping sauces go well with this?

Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, or even extra buffalo sauce work great.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Popcorn Chicken is the ultimate combination of crispy, spicy, and flavorful goodness. It’s easy to make, healthier than deep-frying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality buffalo chicken right at home!

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