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–+ servings
Popcorn Chicken Air Fryer

Crispy Popcorn Chicken Air Fryer Recipe for Guilt-Free Snacking

Enjoy this healthy Popcorn Chicken Air Fryer recipe, offering crispy, golden bites in no time for guilt-free snacking.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Coating
  • 2 lbs Boneless Chicken Breasts Primarily use boneless for juicier bites.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour You can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free flour.
  • 2 large Eggs Essential for binding the coating ingredients.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Plain yogurt works in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder Always check freshness.
For Flavoring
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Brings depth to the flavor.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; regular salt can be used if needed.
  • 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper Adds mild heat.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika gives a richer profile.
For the Crunch
  • 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs Key for crispiness.
  • 1 tsp Cooking Oil Spray Opt for olive oil spray for a healthier choice.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Popcorn Chicken Air Fryer
  1. In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and baking powder.
  2. In a second shallow dish, beat together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth.
  3. In a third shallow dish, pour in the panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Coat each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  6. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  7. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  8. Carefully remove the popcorn chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, ensure proper coating and do not overcrowd the air fryer. Adjust cooking times based on chicken piece sizes.

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