Name: Indulgent Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Made Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 cup Buttermilk (Substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar); 2 tablespoons Hot sauce (Adjust to your spice preference); 1 cup All-purpose flour (Opt for gluten-free if needed); 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black pepper; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (Optional for heat); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 2 cups Vegetable or canola oil (Consider peanut oil for flavor); Dipping sauces (e.g., ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, BBQ)

As I crunched into a piece of popcorn chicken at my favorite diner, I couldn’t help but think, “How can I make this at home?” That moment sparked my inspiration for this Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken recipe. Not only do these delightful, golden bites deliver restaurant-quality crunchiness, but they also allow for endless variations with proteins like shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower. The best part? You can whip this up in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings. Whether served as a fun snack or a delicious main dish, this crispy chicken is sure to captivate your taste buds. Curious about how to create your own crowd-pleaser at home? Let’s dive in!

Why Will You Love This Recipe?

Crispy Perfection: Imagine sinking your teeth into these delicious bites; the golden coating is as satisfying as it is crunchy.
Endless Variations: Want to customize? Try shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for an exciting twist that fits any dietary preference!
Quick & Easy: With just a few steps, you’ll have mouthwatering popcorn chicken on your plate faster than ordering takeout.
Family Friendly: Gather everyone around! This dish promises to be a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
Flavor Explosion: Marinated in buttermilk and spices, every bite delivers a burst of juicy flavor that will have you coming back for more.
Serve & Enjoy: Pair with dipping sauces or serve alongside sides like crispy waffle fries or vibrant salads for a complete meal! For a creamy twist, check out my Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese to create the ultimate comfort food feast!

Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 1-inch cubes for perfect bite-sized pieces; thighs can be juicier.
• Buttermilk – A key ingredient for tenderness and flavor; you can substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar.
• Hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot) – Adds a kick; adjust to your spice preference for the perfect heat!

For the Coating
• All-purpose flour – Forms the main crispy coating; opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
• Cornstarch – Ensures extra crispiness for your popcorn chicken!
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika – Essential seasonings for depth of flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Onion powder, cayenne pepper (optional), dried thyme, dried oregano – Boosts the flavor profile; cayenne adds optional heat for those who like it spicy!

For Frying
• Vegetable or canola oil – Used for frying; consider peanut oil for an additional flavor kick.

For Serving
• Dipping sauces (e.g., ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, BBQ) – Elevates the dish and offers enticing flavor pairings.

Dive into this delightful recipe, and remember, you can easily adapt it to fit your preferences—whether you're swapping proteins or playing with spice levels! Enjoy the crispy goodness that doesn’t require a trip to your favorite diner!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts with buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 4 hours, allowing the mixture to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Breading
While the chicken marinates, gather a separate bowl and whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, and your choice of spices, including onion powder and paprika for extra flavor. Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly mixed to create a uniform coating that will give your popcorn chicken that crispy restaurant-style texture you crave.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and allow any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring a thorough coating. For maximum crunch, you can return the chicken to the buttermilk and then dredge it again in the flour mixture—this double-dredging technique is key to achieving the ultimate crispy exterior.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
In a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable or canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked to perfection, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain, keeping your popcorn chicken crispy. Serve the golden bites hot with a selection of your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or honey mustard, and enjoy this delightful crispy restaurant-style popcorn chicken!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken bites are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken with buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring each piece is tender and flavorful when you're ready to cook. For an easy weeknight dinner, you can also prepare the breading mixture and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness of your chicken, avoid breading it until just before frying. When you're ready to serve, follow the frying steps, and enjoy these delightful bites with minimal effort, making mealtime quick and delicious!

What to Serve with Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken

As you savor the crispy savoriness of your popcorn chicken, consider these delectable pairings that will elevate your meal experience.

Crispy Waffle Fries: The perfect combination of crunchy and fluffy, these fries are a fun, hearty side reminiscent of diners everywhere.
Vibrant Coleslaw: Fresh, crisp, and tangy, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that beautifully balances the rich flavors of the fried chicken.
Garlicky Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a burst of freshness and a nutrient-rich complement to the main dish.
Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese: Indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with the crunch of popcorn chicken for the ultimate comfort meal.
Mini Chicken Sliders: Transform leftovers into fun sliders! Stack crispy chicken in mini buns with your favorite toppings for a delightful twist.
Zesty Dipping Sauces: Enhance your meal with an array of sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for a flavorful experience that perfectly accompanies each bite.
Sparkling Lemonade: Refresh your palate with a bright, invigorating drink that adds a delightful contrast to the savory richness of your popcorn chicken.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that provide the ideal finish to a comforting dinner spread.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it's completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooled chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat popcorn chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep popcorn chicken at room temperature for up to 2 hours before cooling it down or refrigerating to ensure quality.

Variations & Substitutions for Popcorn Chicken

Feel free to get creative with your crispy bites! Play around with different ingredients and flavors for a custom twist that will delight your taste buds.

Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a lighter option. Just marinate the shrimp for a shorter time to keep them tender!
Vegetarian Delight: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a plant-based treat. They’ll crisp up beautifully with the same seasoning and batter.
Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend and enjoy a delicious crispy experience without the gluten!
Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mix for a fiery version that packs a punch.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon zest into the marinade for a fresh flavor that brightens each crunchy bite.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into your flour mixture for an aromatic boost that’s simply delightful.
Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce instead of buttermilk for marinating the chicken; you can add some ginger and sesame oil to switch it up!
Sweet Touch: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the finished chicken for a sweet-savory combination that surprises and delights.

Each variation opens up a new world of flavor! For a comforting pairing, try my Creamy Instant Pot Mac and Cheese alongside your crispy chicken for the ultimate indulgence! Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, check out my Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for dessert.

Expert Tips for Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken

Hot Oil is Key: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying to avoid a greasy texture. Use a thermometer for accurate readings.
Double Dredge for Crunch: For the crispiest popcorn chicken, dip back in the buttermilk and then re-dredge in flour before frying.
Batch Fry Wisely: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking; overcrowding leads to soggy chicken.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 4 hours provides maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings. Mixing in some cayenne or garlic powder can take your dish to the next level!
Use a Wire Rack: After frying, drain the chicken on a wire rack to keep it crispy instead of letting it sit on paper towels.

Crispy Restaurant Style Popcorn Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the juiciest result, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They tend to stay moist during frying. If you opt for breasts, make sure you cut them into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it crispy when reheating, let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Can I freeze popcorn chicken?
Very much so! After frying, allow the popcorn chicken to cool completely. Lay it out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag and store it for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.

What if my popcorn chicken isn’t crispy?
No worries! If you find your chicken isn’t achieving the desired crispiness, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying. You can also try double-dredging the chicken by coating it in the flour mixture twice for extra crunch. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this cools the oil down and leads to sogginess.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted for various diets. For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower, using the same marinade and coating process. Additionally, gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Just be mindful of cross-contamination for allergies.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For the ultimate flavor boost, I recommend marinating the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes and ideally for up to 4 hours. This allows the buttermilk and spices to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with delicious flavor.