Introduction:

 

I first discovered the joy of making Chicken Popcorn when I was looking for a fun dish to impress my family during a cozy movie night. With kids in the house, I knew I needed something crispy and flavorful that everyone would enjoy. As I began experimenting with the ingredients, I realized how easy and delightful it was to recreate this popular dish at home. The crunch and flavor reminded me of my favorite snack from the local fast-food joint, and I couldn't wait to share the recipe.

 

What I love most about Chicken Popcorn is its versatility. Whether it's a weekend treat or a party appetizer, it never fails to bring smiles to the table. The unique blend of spices and the perfect crunch make it a favorite among kids and adults alike, and it’s a dish I’m proud to serve.

 

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Ingredients of Chicken Popcorn

 

First Marination:

• 1 cup Chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup Buttermilk
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika powder

Second Marination:

• 1 Egg
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika powder
• 1 tsp Cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Dried oregano

Seasoned Flour:

• 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp Corn flour
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp Black pepper
• 1 tsp Paprika powder
• 1 tsp Dried oregano

Other:

• Oil, for frying
• 1 tbsp Peri-peri masala

 

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Instructions of Chicken Popcorn

 

First Marination:

Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, paprika powder, and black pepper. Add the diced chicken breast and mix well. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.

 

Seasoned Flour:

Make the Seasoned Flour:
In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, corn flour, salt, black pepper, paprika powder, and dried oregano. This will create your seasoned flour mixture.

 

Second Marination:

Prepare the Second Marinade:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add salt, black pepper, paprika powder, cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly to form the second marinade.

 

Assembly:

Combine the Marinades:
Remove the chicken from the first marination and transfer it into the second marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for another 30 minutes. To keep the first marination chilled, you can place an ice cube in it.

 

Coating:

Coat the Chicken:
After the second marination, remove the chicken pieces and coat them with the seasoned flour mixture. For a thicker crust, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk marination and then coat it with the seasoned flour again. Make sure to shake off any excess flour.

 

Frying:

Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

 

Serving:

Serve the Chicken Popcorn:
Sprinkle peri-peri masala over the fried chicken popcorn for an extra kick. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

 

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About the Recipe:

 

This Chicken Popcorn recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional chicken snacks that everyone loves. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. The marination process is crucial as it ensures that the chicken is juicy inside while achieving that perfect crispy exterior when fried.

 

To get that extra crunch, we coat the marinated chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture, combining all the essential spices to create a flavor explosion. As you fry the chicken, the aroma fills your kitchen, and soon you'll be left with a plateful of crispy, golden Chicken Popcorn that everyone will rave about.

 

This recipe allows you to customize the spice levels according to your family's preferences. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder, making it suitable for all age groups. Pairing it with a tangy dipping sauce only elevates this snack to a whole new level.

 

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Cooking Tips:

 

• Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and enhancing its flavor.
• Double Coating: For extra crunch, consider double coating the chicken pieces. After the initial dip in the flour mixture, you can dip them in beaten egg and coat them again with flour.
• Oil Temperature: Ensure that your frying oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before adding the chicken. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture without absorbing excess oil.
• Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy chicken.
• Resting Period: After frying, let the Chicken Popcorn rest on a wire rack rather than on paper towels to keep it crispy.

 

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Pairing Guide:

 

Chicken Popcorn pairs well with various side dishes and beverages. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
• Beverages: A cold soda, lemonade, or even a refreshing iced tea complements the crispy chicken well.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a simple salad or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also serve it with French fries or potato wedges for a more filling meal.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be sprinkled on top for a burst of color and freshness.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions:

 

1. What is Chicken Popcorn? Chicken Popcorn is a crispy, bite-sized chicken snack, marinated in buttermilk and coated with seasoned flour, making it a delightful treat.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure it's tender and flavorful.

3. Can I bake Chicken Popcorn instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake Chicken Popcorn at a high temperature (around 425°F/220°C) for a healthier version, but frying gives it a more authentic crispiness.

4. What spices can I add to the flour mixture? You can add spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the flour mixture for extra flavor.

5. How can I store leftover Chicken Popcorn? Store leftover Chicken Popcorn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

6. Is Chicken Popcorn suitable for kids? Yes, Chicken Popcorn is a kid-friendly dish that is crispy and flavorful, making it a favorite among children.

7. What dipping sauces go well with Chicken Popcorn? Popular dipping sauces include ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and spicy mayo.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option, but ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.

9. How do I make Chicken Popcorn spicier? Increase the amount of chili powder in the flour mixture to add more heat according to your preference.

10. What can I serve with Chicken Popcorn? Chicken Popcorn pairs well with sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad, and can be enjoyed with various dipping sauces.

 

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