Name: Baked Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs Chicken tenderloins (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 3/4 cup Flour; 1 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup Fine cornmeal; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Black pepper; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Chili powder; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper; 2 eggs Eggs; 1/4 cup Frank’s hot WINGS sauce (Not their regular hot sauce); 2 tablespoons Honey; 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (I use light); 1/4 cup Nonfat Greek yogurt (May sub mayonnaise); 1 teaspoon Frank’s hot WINGS sauce

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There’s something special about the aroma of freshly baked food wafting through the kitchen, and that’s precisely what you’ll experience with this Baked Popcorn Chicken. I remember the first time I made it; my friends were over for movie night, and I wanted to impress them with a snack that was both delicious and easy to prepare. Little did I know, this dish would become a staple in our gatherings! The crispy texture on the outside, paired with the juicy tenderness of the chicken, made it an instant hit. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love popcorn chicken? It’s the perfect finger food for sharing, and with a homemade dipping sauce, it will keep everyone coming back for seconds. As the chicken bakes, you can feel the excitement in the air, and trust me, the anticipation only adds to the flavor. So, let’s dive into this fantastic recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your household as well!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why Try This Baked Popcorn Chicken

Family Favorite

There’s something about the Baked Popcorn Chicken that makes it a family favorite. The crispy coating and juicy chicken are irresistible, especially for kids who love finger foods. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to healthier versions of their favorite snacks without compromising on flavor.

Perfect for Parties

I’ve served this dish at numerous parties, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s a game night, a birthday, or just a casual gathering, the Baked Popcorn Chicken always steals the show. It’s easy to make a big batch, and everyone loves snacking on these delicious bites.

Customizable Flavors

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can play with the spices, add different seasonings, or even choose a different hot sauce for the dipping sauce. This versatility means you can create a flavor profile that suits your taste buds perfectly!

Healthier Alternative

By baking instead of frying, this Baked Popcorn Chicken offers a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn chicken. You can enjoy all the crispy goodness while feeling good about your choices, making it a guilt-free snack or meal option!

Easy Preparation

Preparation is a breeze! With just a few steps to follow, you’ll have this dish ready to bake in no time. I love that I can quickly whip it up even on a busy night, ensuring that I can provide my family with a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients Overview for Baked Popcorn Chicken

The key to making an excellent Baked Popcorn Chicken lies in the quality of the ingredients you choose. Each component plays an essential role in creating that crispy texture and flavorful taste. From the tender chicken to the crunchy panko breadcrumbs, every ingredient contributes to a satisfying bite. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients.

1 1/2 lbs chicken tenderloins: Cut into 1-inch pieces, these tenderloins are the star of the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base for the recipe.
3/4 cup flour: This helps to coat the chicken and gives a nice base layer of crispiness.
1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs: The key to achieving that extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
1/2 cup fine cornmeal: This adds an additional layer of crunch and a delightful texture to the coating.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for flavor enhancement, it brings out the natural taste of the chicken.
1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a smoky flavor and beautiful color to the dish.
1 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of heat and flavor balance.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth of flavor to the breading.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This enhances the savory taste, making the chicken more aromatic.
1 teaspoon chili powder: For a touch of warmth and spice.
1 teaspoon cumin: This gives an earthy flavor that complements the other spices well.
1/4-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference; it can really enhance the flavor profile.
2 eggs: Used for binding the breading to the chicken and providing moisture.
1/4 cup Frank’s hot WINGS sauce: This adds a zesty kick and flavor to the chicken.
2 tablespoons honey: Balances out the heat with a touch of sweetness.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Acts as a creamy dip base.
1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream, adding creaminess and tang.
1 teaspoon Frank’s hot WINGS sauce: For adjusting the spice level of the dipping sauce.

Directions for Baked Popcorn Chicken

Making Baked Popcorn Chicken is a straightforward process that yields delicious results! Follow these steps carefully to create a dish that your friends and family will love. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will help achieve that perfect golden crispiness on the chicken.
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a baking rack on top. Lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.
In a large freezer bag, add the flour. This will be the first layer of coating for your chicken. Make sure to seal the bag properly.
In a separate large bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, salt, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. This mixture will be your second layer of flavor and crunch.
In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs and Frank’s hot WINGS sauce until combined. The sauce will add a kick to the chicken!
Take the chicken tenderloins and place them in the flour bag. Seal the bag and shake until the chicken is well coated. This helps create a nice base layer for the chicken.
Next, dip the floured chicken pieces into the egg mixture. Allow any excess to drip off before placing them into the bag with the panko breadcrumb mixture.
Seal the breadcrumb bag and shake again, pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure they stick well. You want each piece to be thoroughly coated for maximum crispiness.
Carefully place the coated chicken on the baking rack in a single layer. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help it crisp up in the oven.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Keep an eye on them and broil for a few minutes if you want extra crispiness.
While the chicken bakes, prepare the Creamy Honey Buffalo Dip. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, and additional Frank’s hot WINGS sauce to taste. Adjust the heat level according to your preference.
Once the chicken is done, taste a piece to decide how spicy you want the dip. This is the moment to add more hot sauce if desired! Serve the crispy Baked Popcorn Chicken with the dip on the side and enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Using Panko: For the best crunch, always use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Chicken Quality: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Spice Control: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level of your chicken and dip.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking for optimal juiciness.

Customization Ideas

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are some ideas to make this Baked Popcorn Chicken even more exciting:

Different Hot Sauces: Experiment with various hot sauces to create unique flavor profiles.
Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated cheese over the chicken during the last few minutes of baking.
Herbs and Spices: Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Oven to Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, you can cook the chicken in it for an even crispier result.
Serving Variations: Serve the chicken in wraps or on a salad for a complete meal.
Dip Variations: Create different dipping sauces, like ranch or blue cheese, for variety.
Whole Wheat Options: Consider using whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs for a healthier version.

What to Pair With Baked Popcorn Chicken

When it comes to serving Baked Popcorn Chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to consider:

Fresh Salads: Serve with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli make great accompaniments.
Rice Dishes: A side of fluffy rice or quinoa can complement the chicken nicely.
Perfect for Game Day: This dish is ideal for parties or game nights, offering a fun and sharable bite.
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual dinners or picnics, the chicken can be served warm or at room temperature.
Seasonal Pairings: During summer, serve with a fresh corn salad, and in the winter, pair with hearty vegetable soup.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they can be eaten cold or reheated in the oven.
Best Occasion: This dish works beautifully for casual events or family dinners.

FAQ

Baked Popcorn Chicken is a healthier version of the traditional popcorn chicken dish. Instead of frying, the chicken is baked until crispy, making it a delicious, guilt-free snack. Coated in a flavorful breading and served with a zesty dipping sauce, it’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or family dinners!

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time! Coat the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. This can save you time on busy days. You can also freeze the uncooked chicken for up to three months; simply bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

There are plenty of delicious dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with Baked Popcorn Chicken. Some popular choices include ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic dip. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination!

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When reheating, place them back in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them soggy.

Conclusion

The Baked Popcorn Chicken is truly a crowd-pleaser with its crispy texture and juicy chicken. Whether for a casual dinner at home or a fun party snack, this recipe is sure to impress everyone. I encourage you to give it a try and see how it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!