Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Crunchy, bite-sized popcorn chicken made in the air fryer! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for snacks or meals. No deep frying required.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 12

Resting Time 5

Total Time 27

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings people

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups bite-sized chicken pieces breast or thigh, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil spray

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Instructions

Place chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and pour in buttermilk. Mix well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes to tenderize.
In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
Take each chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil. Place chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding.
Air fry for 6 minutes, then carefully flip all pieces with tongs and spray lightly with oil. Continue cooking for another 6 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the basket and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.

Notes

🔹 Use chicken thigh for juicier bites.
🔹 Make sure pieces are similar size for even cooking.
🔹 You can add cayenne pepper for extra spice.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Air Fryer, Chicken, Popcorn Chicken

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