Introduction

Baked popcorn chicken is a delicious and crunchy snack that’s easy to make at home. This healthier alternative to fried chicken is perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. You’ll love its crispy texture and flavorful seasoning.

Baked Popcorn Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

500 grams chicken pieces (bite-sized)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon seasoning (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with your chosen seasoning.
Step 2: Coat each piece of chicken evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
Step 3: Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, spray the coated chicken with a little cooking oil before baking.
Try adding grated Parmesan cheese or herbs like thyme and oregano to the breadcrumb mix for more flavor.
Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier results.

Storage

Store leftover baked popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?

Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in this recipe and make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I freeze baked popcorn chicken?

Absolutely. Let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Baked Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 132 reviews

This Baked Popcorn Chicken recipe offers a delicious, crispy, and healthier alternative to traditional fried popcorn chicken. Tender chicken pieces are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal snack or appetizer served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Author: Marco
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Breadcrumbs

1 cup plain breadcrumbs

Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Prepare Coatings: In separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching for even baking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. You may flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue.

Notes

For extra crispiness, spray the coated chicken with a light coat of cooking spray before baking.
Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly to cook uniformly.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
Adjust seasoning to taste or add herbs like dried oregano or thyme for variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Keywords: Baked popcorn chicken, crispy chicken bites, healthy popcorn chicken, baked chicken recipe, easy chicken appetizer