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Crispy Popcorn Chicken Bites Recipe for Quick Snacking
Maya Bennett

Crispy Popcorn Chicken Bites

These golden-brown, crackle-on-bite chicken bites deliver a satisfying crunch and bold flavor with a three-layer coating of buttermilk, seasoned flour, and panko. Perfect for quick snacking and customizable to your spice preference.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings: 48 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken breast, 1 lb (cut into ½-inch cubes)
  • Buttermilk, 1 cup
  • Flour, 1 cup
  • Cornstarch, 2 tbsp
  • Ground coriander, 1 tsp
  • Paprika, 1 tsp
  • Granulated garlic, 1 tsp
  • Salt, 1 tsp
  • Oil, 3 cups
  • Panko breadcrumbs, 2 cups

Method
 

  1. Cut chicken breast into ½-inch cubes and place in a bowl.
  2. Submerge in buttermilk and let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, coriander, paprika, granulated garlic, and half the salt.
  4. Coat chicken fully in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Transfer chicken to a bowl of panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
  6. Heat oil in a large pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Notes

For richer flavor, substitute chicken thighs.
Use gluten-free flour blends for dietary restrictions.
Smoked paprika enhances depth.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent sogginess.