Popcorn Chicken
Popcorn chicken is the ultimate crunchy snack that delivers a satisfying blend of crispiness and juicy tenderness in every bite. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, movie nights, or simply indulging in a delightful homemade dish. Coated in a golden crust, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or appetizer, making it a sure crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for whisked eggs, one for flour mixed with salt and pepper, and one for panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each piece of chicken in flour, dip into the egg wash, then roll in panko until fully covered. Repeat for all pieces.
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces (100g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, marinate chicken in buttermilk before breading. - Experiment with spices like Cajun seasoning or add grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat at 350°F (175°C) for best results.