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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken: A Crispy Delight

Introduction

In the realm of quick and delicious snacks, popcorn chicken holds a special place. This bite-sized, crispy delight is loved by both young and old, making it an ideal treat for parties, family movie nights, or even a simple lunch. With the growing popularity of air fryers, it’s now easier than ever to make this classic dish at home with significantly less oil. Here’s how you can whip up a batch of scrumptious air fryer popcorn chicken that will leave everyone wanting more.

What is Popcorn Chicken?

Popcorn chicken is essentially small, bite-sized pieces of chicken that are seasoned, battered, and deep-fried to a golden crisp. Originating from fast-food chains, it has become a popular comfort food across the globe. Traditionally deep-fried, this dish can be quite greasy, but with an air fryer, you can enjoy the same wonderful crunch without the excess oil, making it a healthier alternative.

Ingredients

To make your own air fryer popcorn chicken, you will need:

• For the Chicken:

  • 500g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup (120g) plain flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (you can use panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 tsp cayenne pepper for added heat
• For Serving:
  • Your favourite dipping sauces (barbecue, sweet and sour, or ranch)

Preparation Steps

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 30 minutes to let the flavours soak in.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
   In one bowl, place the plain flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a pinch of salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you desire.

3. Breading Process:
   Take a piece of marinated chicken and coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

5. Air Fry the Chicken:
   Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil to help it crisp up. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through for even crispiness. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through when done.

Serving Suggestions

Once your air fryer popcorn chicken is ready, serve it piping hot with an array of dipping sauces. The simplicity of the chicken allows it to pair well with a variety of flavours—from tangy barbecue to creamy ranch or even a spicy aioli. Additionally, you can serve it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a larger platter for a gathering.

Conclusion

Air fryer popcorn chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only does it deliver on taste and texture, but it does so with less oil, making it a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavour. With just a few ingredients and a little preparation, you can create a crispy, golden snack that is sure to please. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this mouth-watering treat!

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