Name: Baked Popcorn Chicken – Crispy, Crunchy, and Oh-So-Tasty!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 eggs; 2 tbsp milk; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Cooking spray or oil

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked popcorn chicken is a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version, offering the same irresistible crunch and flavor without the excess oil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a fun snack for kids and adults alike. With its golden, crispy coating and juicy, tender chicken inside, this dish is bound to be a favorite in your household. Plus, the baked method keeps things light and guilt-free while still delivering all the flavor and texture you crave.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken into small bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Set up the breading station: In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a second bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Coat the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help achieve a golden-brown finish.
Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through for even crispiness. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through.
Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicier version.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Parmesan Crusted: Mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy crunch.
Asian-Inspired: Toss the baked chicken pieces in a sweet and spicy sauce for a delicious Asian-style popcorn chicken.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, use an air fryer for a quick and crispy reheating method.

FAQs

How do I make sure my baked popcorn chicken stays crispy?

For maximum crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs and lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking.

Can I freeze baked popcorn chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until crispy and heated through.

What dipping sauces pair well with popcorn chicken?

Some great options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, ranch, and sweet chili sauce.

Can I air-fry this recipe instead of baking it?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) in an air fryer for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Do I have to use cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps create a crispier coating, but you can substitute it with additional flour if needed.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or soy milk.

What side dishes go well with baked popcorn chicken?

Pair with fries, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Baked popcorn chicken is a fantastic, healthier alternative to the fried version without sacrificing flavor or crunch. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Easy to make, family-friendly, and customizable to your taste, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy the crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-tasty goodness!

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