Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 12, 2025

Updated:

March 12, 2025

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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is the kind of dish that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Whether you’re craving something crunchy for movie night or looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy, all without the guilt that comes with deep frying. Plus, with an air fryer, you save time and cleanup, making this a winner for busy cooks. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delightful Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken that your family and friends will rave about!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken recipe is designed to achieve the perfect crunch while being healthier than traditional fried versions. The secret lies in the unique combination of panko breadcrumbs and a meticulously balanced seasoning blend, ensuring each piece of chicken is flavorful and crispy without the extra calories. Instead of soaking the chicken in oil, we’re using the air fryer to create that satisfying crunch with less grease. Plus, those panko breadcrumbs? They deliver an unbeatable texture that keeps you reaching for more.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

You’ll absolutely adore this Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken! Not only does it provide a guilt-free alternative for satisfying cravings, but it’s also incredibly kid-friendly and easy to prepare. Imagine crispy chicken pieces that are fun to munch on—perfect for little hands and adult appetites alike. Whether as a main dish or a delightful snack, this recipe is bound to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the joy of cooking something that everyone will love, with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients

To whip up this tasty Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 large egg
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Olive oil spray
Dipping sauces: ketchup, low-fat ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, marinara (optional)

Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this exciting cooking journey!

Preparing the Panko

Toast the Panko Breadcrumbs

First off, let’s get those panko breadcrumbs ready to create a mouthwatering crunch. Grab a medium skillet and add the tablespoon of olive oil; set the heat to medium-low. Once it warms up, pour in the panko breadcrumbs along with ½ teaspoon of salt. Now, keep an eye on them! Toast the breadcrumbs for about 4 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until they turn a beautiful golden brown. When they’re just right, transfer the toasted panko to a plate to cool.

Cutting the Chicken

Cube the Chicken Breasts

Next, let’s prep the chicken. Take your pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into ¾-inch cubes—think small dice. As you cut, sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt and add freshly ground black pepper to taste. This simple seasoning step elevates the flavor profile. Set this moist, seasoned chicken aside while you organize your dredging station.

Dredging Station Setup

Organize Your Ingredients

Now it’s time to get our dredging area set up. On a large plate, combine the all-purpose flour with ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt. This will form the first layer of flavor for the chicken. In a separate bowl, crack the large egg and beat it, mixing in 1 teaspoon of water until it’s smooth.

Season the Panko

In the bowl with your toasted panko, mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like a little kick), and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Place the seasoned panko right next to your egg bowl for easy access. Everything is coming together nicely!

Dredging the Chicken Pieces

Bread the Chicken

It’s time to coat the chicken! Work in batches of about 15 of those delightful chicken cubes. Start by dredging each piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Next, dip it in the egg mixture, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the seasoned panko, ensuring you press the crumbs onto the pieces so they stick well. Repeat this process until each chicken cube is coated. You’ll love watching them turn into little crunchy wonders!

Air Frying the Chicken

Preheat and Fry

Now comes the fun part! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Then, arrange around 30 chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they’re spaced out to ensure even cooking. Give the top of the chicken a light spray of olive oil, then let them cook for 5 minutes. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through to get that perfect crispness on every side. Once they’re golden and inviting, serve them hot!

Serving Suggestions

Your Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is fluffy, crispy, and now it’s time to enjoy it. Pair it with an assortment of dipping sauces like ketchup, low-fat ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard. The choices are endless! If you want a heartier meal, serve it along with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner that everyone will adore.

Tips for Success

Press the Panko Firmly: Ensure even coating by pressing the panko firmly onto the chicken pieces during the breading process. This little trick keeps that crunch intact while cooking.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your air fryer as cooking times can vary slightly depending on the make and model. Always trust your instincts and the look of that lovely golden-brown color.

Variations

Why not add a twist to your popcorn chicken? Explore different flavors by introducing spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to the panko mixture. If you want to switch it up, substituting turkey breast for chicken offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. Get creative and find variations that your family will love!

Storage Tips

If by some chance you find yourself with leftovers, no worries! Store any leftover Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep that mouthwatering crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
No, it’s best to use fresh chicken to ensure even cooking and proper texture. Fresh chicken helps retain moisture and flavor.

2. What dipping sauces pair well with popcorn chicken?
Ketchup, low-fat ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or marinara are all excellent choices. Mix and match to find your favorites!

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious creation.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The best way to check is with a meat thermometer for accuracy.

5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bread the chicken in advance, storing it in the fridge until you’re ready to air fry. This makes for a quick and easy meal option later on.

This Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is an easy, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With its irresistible crunch and flavorful seasoning, it’s perfect for family meals or snack cravings. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness that everyone will love, and don’t shy away from personalizing the recipe to suit your taste!

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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Ingredients

Preparing the Panko