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Homemade Popcorn Chicken

Homemade Popcorn Chicken

Crispy, golden homemade popcorn chicken made with tender chicken breast pieces coated in seasoned flour, buttermilk, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for snacks, appetizers, or weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towels
  • shallow bowls
  • Thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Whisk flour, salt, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl. Place buttermilk in a second bowl and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  3. Dredge chicken in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat fully in panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Heat oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), filling to a depth of 2–3 inches.
  5. Fry chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Season lightly with salt if desired and serve hot with dipping sauces.

Notes

Serve immediately for maximum crispiness. Air-fry or bake as a lighter alternative if desired.