Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken - Kid-Friendly Favorite
Bite-sized crispy air fryer popcorn chicken that's perfect for kids and adults. Healthier than fast food and ready in 15 minutes!
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces
- Step 2: Pat dry with paper towels
- Step 3: Set up breading station with three bowls - flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with Parmesan and spices
- Step 4: Season flour with salt and pepper
- Step 5: Working in batches, coat chicken pieces in flour, then egg, then panko mixture
- Step 6: Press breadcrumbs firmly onto chicken
- Step 7: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C)
- Step 8: Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray
- Step 9: Place chicken pieces in single layer, not touching
- Step 10: Spray tops generously with cooking spray
- Step 11: Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway through
- Step 12: Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- Step 13: Serve hot with favorite dipping sauces
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Perfect Popcorn Chicken Tips
- Uniform size: Ensures even cooking
- Don't skip spray: Creates golden, crispy exterior
- Single layer: Cook in batches if needed
- Shake basket: Promotes even browning
- Serve immediately: Best when hot and crispy
Flavor Variations
Spicy:
- Add cayenne pepper to breading
BBQ:
- Mix BBQ seasoning into breadcrumbs
Ranch:
- Add ranch seasoning powder
Buffalo:
- Toss with buffalo sauce after cooking
Honey Mustard:
- Serve with honey mustard for dipping
Dipping Sauce Bar
Set up variety of sauces:
- Honey mustard
- BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Ketchup
- Buffalo sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Sweet and sour
- Hot sauce
Serving Ideas
For Kids:
- Serve with fries and veggies
- Make chicken nugget meal
- Pack in lunchbox
Party Platter:
- Arrange on platter with sauces
- Add vegetable crudités
- Include cheese cubes
Meal Ideas:
- Caesar salad topper
- Wrap filling
- Rice bowl protein
- Mac and cheese topper
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in airtight container Freeze: Up to 2 months Reheat: Air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until crispy
Make-Ahead
Bread chicken pieces and freeze on baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags. Cook from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to cooking time.
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