Air fryer popcorn chicken is a crispy, golden, and flavorful snack that's perfect for movie nights or as an easy weeknight meal. Follow these detailed steps to create your own at home.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into small strips)
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: hot sauce or barbecue sauce
#### Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
---
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### 1. **Prep Your Ingredients**
- Start by cutting the chicken into small, even strips to ensure even cooking.
- Mix panko bread crumbs with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in one mixing bowl.
#### 2. **Dip and Coat**
- In another bowl, lightly coat each piece of chicken with flour.
- Dip the floured pieces into the panko mixture, ensuring they are well-coated but not soggy.
#### 3. **Preheat Your Air Fryer**
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C).
#### 4. **Air Fry**
- Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
- Transfer the baking sheet with the chicken into the preheated air fryer and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
#### 5. **Drain Excess Oil (Optional)**
- Once done, use tongs to carefully lift out the chicken from the air fryer basket.
- Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil if needed.
#### 6. **Serve Hot**
- Serve your popcorn chicken hot, optionally drizzled with some hot sauce or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated properly before adding the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- For an extra crispy texture, you can toss the coated pieces with a little cornstarch before frying.
### SEO Optimization:
- Include keywords like "air fryer popcorn chicken," "easy chicken recipes," and "crispy snacks."
- Use header tags (H1, H2) for clear sections to enhance readability.
- Add bullet points for quick skimming of steps.
- Provide recipe details with measurements and instructions.
By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a delicious and crispy air fryer popcorn chicken that’s both healthy and satisfying.