Homemade Popcorn Chicken
- PREP 40min
- COOK 20min
- TOTAL 1hrs
This homemade popcorn chicken is crispy, juicy, and healthier than take-out when baked (or air-fried). It’s a crowd-pleaser for the whole family, and you can use chicken breasts or thighs.
Need buttermilk or breading substitutes? Check the notes section. Baked and Air Fryer instructions are included!
You Will Need
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups low-fat buttermilk
1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne, optional
4 cups corn flakes or potato chips
Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Bread the Chicken
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Place cornflakes (or potato chips) in a large resealable bag and crush them finely.
Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Shake the bag to mix.
Remove pieces of chicken from the marinade, shaking them lightly. Toss the chicken into the seasoned breading, pressing to coat well.
Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, spraying them with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Baking Popcorn Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
For extra crispy chicken, place an oven-safe cooling rack onto the baking sheet and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through for even browning. The chicken is done when it’s crispy, golden brown, and cooked through.
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
Place the breaded chicken pieces in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray them lightly with cooking spray.
Air fry at 390°F for 4 minutes. Shake the basket, spray lightly again, then air fry for another 3 to 5 minutes (or until golden brown).
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- To substitute breadcrumbs, use about 2 cups.
- To substitute buttermilk, combine 2 cups of milk (dairy or non-dairy milk) with 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar.
- Nutrition Facts: The nutrition facts provided below are estimates.