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–+ servings
Baked Popcorn Chicken

Baked Popcorn Chicken

This baked popcorn chicken offers a crunchy, oven-baked alternative to fried chicken, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers & Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating
  • 1 cup buttermilk helps the coating stick and adds moisture to the chicken
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch; try panko for extra crispiness
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour ensures the chicken is crispy by creating a base for the coating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds a flavorful kick to every bite
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for a hint of smokiness and vibrant color
  • salt to taste; season well for the best flavor experience
  • pepper to taste; season well for the best flavor experience
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder complements the garlic flavor beautifully
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper add if you enjoy a bit of heat!
  • Fresh herbs optional, like thyme or oregano for an herbaceous twist

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • large bowl
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

How to Make Baked Popcorn Chicken
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy texture we all crave.
  2. Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure juicy and tender chicken.
  3. Mix the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl to create a flavorful coating.
  4. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess for an even crunch.
  5. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet for even baking.
  6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Serve hot with dipping sauces or sides. For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 36gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Don't skip the buttermilk marinade for juicy chicken. For an extra crispy coating, consider double coating the chicken.

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