Name: Baked Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces Fresh Raspberries; 2 tablespoons Water; ¾ cup Honey; 1 jalapeño pepper Thinly Sliced Jalapeño Pepper; 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts; 2 cups Buttermilk; ¾ cup Flour; 1½ cups Panko Bread Crumbs; 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder; 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika; Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about indulging in crispy, tender pieces of chicken, especially when they’re coated in a delightful mix of spices. That’s why I absolutely love making Baked Popcorn Chicken at home. This dish is perfect for cozy movie nights or casual gatherings with friends. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafting through the kitchen had everyone coming back for seconds! The addition of raspberry hot honey elevates this comfort food to something truly special, making it not just a meal but an experience. The tangy sweetness of the raspberry pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating a flavor explosion that keeps you wanting more.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 30 mins

Prep Time:
60 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Blender, Saucepan, Frying Pan, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why This Baked Popcorn Chicken Shines

Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken

One of the best things about Baked Popcorn Chicken is that it’s baked instead of fried. This means you can enjoy all the crunch without the excess grease. I love knowing that I’m serving a lighter version of a classic favorite while still satisfying my cravings.

Perfect for Any Occasion

No matter the occasion, Baked Popcorn Chicken fits right in. Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a fun weekend gathering, this dish is a hit with everyone. It’s versatile and can be made as an appetizer or a main course, making it a go-to recipe in my household.

Kid-Friendly and Fun

If you have little ones, they’ll adore this dish! The bite-sized pieces of chicken are perfect for small hands, and the crispy coating makes it all the more appealing. I often find myself sneaking a few pieces while preparing dinner, and my kids can’t resist joining me!

Easy to Customize

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeño depending on your family’s taste preferences. Plus, the raspberry hot honey adds a unique twist that can be swapped out for different sauces if you want to switch things up.

Meal Prep Friendly

Another reason I love Baked Popcorn Chicken is how great it is for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for a quick meal throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy! It’s a fantastic way to ensure that I always have something delicious on hand.

A Flavor Sensation

The combination of the crispy chicken and the sweet, spicy raspberry honey creates a flavor sensation that’s hard to beat. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make Baked Popcorn Chicken a regular in your kitchen!

Everything You Need for Baked Popcorn Chicken

The ingredients for Baked Popcorn Chicken come together to create a deliciously crunchy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering texture and taste. The juicy chicken is the star, while the spices and the raspberry hot honey make it truly unforgettable.

4 ounces fresh raspberries: These little gems add a burst of sweetness and color.
2 tablespoons water: Used to blend the raspberries into a smooth puree.
¾ cup honey: Provides the sweetness needed to balance the spiciness of the jalapeño.
1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced: Adds a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the honey.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into pieces: The main protein source, perfect for baking.
2 cups buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a rich flavor.
¾ cup flour: Helps create a crispy crust when baked.
1½ cups panko bread crumbs: Adds extra crunch and texture.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Provides a smoky depth to the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Directions for Baked Popcorn Chicken

Making Baked Popcorn Chicken is a delightful process that results in a dish everyone will love. Follow these steps closely for the best results. You’ll find that the combination of crispy chicken and sweet and spicy honey is simply irresistible!

Start by placing the raspberries and water in a blender and blend until fully pureed. This shouldn’t take long; you want a smooth consistency. Once done, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl. Use the back of a spoon to press it through, ensuring you capture as much of the seedless berry puree as possible. You only need 2 to 3 tablespoons of this puree for the honey sauce!
In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of the raspberry puree with the honey and the sliced jalapeño. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously to blend the flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove it from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. You’ll want to store this in the fridge for later.
Next, take your chicken pieces and place them in a baking dish. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it helps to tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with a wire rack and spray the rack with nonstick spray. This will help the chicken become crispy as it bakes.
After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before you’re ready to bake. In a large plate, combine the flour, panko, and the spices: garlic powder, smoked paprika, along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Now comes the fun part! Take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. Immediately place it into the flour-panko mixture, tossing to coat thoroughly. This will create that coveted crispy crust. Once coated, place the chicken on the prepared wire rack. Repeat this step with all the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re spaced evenly on the rack.
Before baking, it’s important to spritz or brush the coated chicken with olive oil spray. This little step helps the chicken crisp up beautifully in the oven and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Bake the chicken pieces in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that, rotate the pan and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden brown and crunchy.
Once out of the oven, remove the chicken and get ready to serve! Pair it with the raspberry hot honey. You can either drizzle it over the chicken or serve it as a dip on the side. Either way, trust me; it’s a match made in heaven!

Things Worth Knowing

Use parchment paper: For even easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper before placing the wire rack on top.
Check for doneness: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F.
Make ahead: You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight for even more flavor and tenderness.
Experiment with sauces: Feel free to try different dipping sauces if raspberry hot honey isn’t your thing; ranch or buffalo sauce work great too!

Tips and Tricks about Baked Popcorn Chicken

When it comes to perfecting your Baked Popcorn Chicken, there are several tips and tricks to ensure you get the best results. Here are some insights that I’ve learned over the years:

Storage: Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
Freezing: If you want to make a big batch, these chicken pieces freeze beautifully. Just ensure they’re fully cooled before placing them in freezer bags.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture, rather than using a microwave.
Variations: You can add different spices to the coating for a unique flavor. Try adding cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Baked Popcorn Chicken can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Game Day Delight: Serve it up during sports events alongside your favorite dipping sauces for a crowd-pleaser.
Casual Dinner: Pair the chicken with coleslaw or a garden salad for a refreshing touch.
Snack Time: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for a perfect finger food option during parties.
Seasonal Sides: In the summer, serve with corn on the cob or a fresh tomato salad, while in winter, roasted veggies are a great option.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They can also be frozen for future meals!

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating in buttermilk. This ensures that the chicken stays tender and absorbs all the flavors. Frozen chicken may take a bit longer to cook, so always check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F before serving.

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, don’t worry! You can make a substitute by mixing one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes to thicken. This can be used in the same way as buttermilk in the recipe, helping to keep your chicken moist and flavorful.

Making raspberry hot honey is simple and adds a delightful twist to your Baked Popcorn Chicken. Start by blending fresh raspberries with a bit of water, then strain to get a smooth puree. Combine a couple of tablespoons of this puree with honey and thinly sliced jalapeño in a saucepan, bringing it to a gentle simmer. After a few minutes, let it cool, and you have a fabulous dipping sauce ready to go!

Yes, you can bake the chicken ahead of time! Just prepare it as directed and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture. This makes it perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings!

Conclusion

Baked Popcorn Chicken is a delightful combination of crispy texture and sweet, spicy flavor that truly stands out at any gathering. The joy of preparing it from scratch is only matched by the happiness it brings to those enjoying each bite. I encourage you to try making this easy and delicious dish for your next dinner or casual get-together; it’s bound to impress!