Name: Baked Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (cut into 1-inch pieces); 0.75 cup all-purpose flour; 1.25 cups panko breadcrumbs; 0.5 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; 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 2 large eggs; 0.25 cup Frank's Hot WINGS Sauce (not the regular hot sauce); 2 tablespoons honey; 0.25 cup mayonnaise (I use light); 0.25 cup nonfat Greek yogurt (may substitute mayonnaise); 1 teaspoon Frank's Hot WINGS Sauce (for the dip)

If you’re searching for a fun and healthier alternative to fried chicken, look no further! Baked Popcorn Chicken is the perfect blend of crispy, flavorful, and utterly addictive bites that will have everyone at the dinner table reaching for more. This recipe is not only easy to whip up, but it also offers a delightful crunch that’s seriously satisfying. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a winner on your hands.

Reasons to Love Baked Popcorn Chicken

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Baked Popcorn Chicken recipe:

Healthier Option: This dish is baked instead of fried, making it a lighter choice without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste buds, whether you prefer it spicy or mild.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is always a hit.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love bite-sized pieces of chicken, making it a great way to get them to enjoy their protein.

What We’re Using

To create this scrumptious Baked Popcorn Chicken, we’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ½ lbs chicken tenderloins, cut into 1-inch pieces
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 ¼ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ 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
¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
2 large eggs
¼ cup Frank’s Hot WINGS Sauce (not the regular hot sauce)
2 tablespoons honey
¼ cup mayonnaise (I use light)
¼ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (may substitute mayonnaise)
1 teaspoon Frank’s Hot WINGS Sauce for the dip

Equipment Breakdown

To make our Baked Popcorn Chicken, you’ll need the following equipment:

Baking Sheet: A large sheet to spread the chicken evenly for baking.
Wire Rack: Placing the chicken on a rack allows air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and extra crispiness.
Mixing Bowls: For combining the breading ingredients and the wet mixture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
Whisk: For whisking the eggs and combining wet ingredients smoothly.

Step-by-Step: Baked Popcorn Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken will bake evenly and develop a nice golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken tenderloins into 1-inch pieces and set them aside.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

In one bowl, mix together the flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the Frank’s Hot WINGS Sauce and honey. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated, and finally, roll it in the panko-cornmeal mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Make sure they are spaced out to allow air circulation.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Step 7: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken is baking, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and the additional teaspoon of Frank’s Hot WINGS Sauce in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve it with the dipping sauce on the side and enjoy your delicious Baked Popcorn Chicken!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Baked Popcorn Chicken is versatile and can be served in numerous ways throughout the year. Consider these ideas:

Serve it with a light salad in the spring for a fresh meal.
Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a cozy winter dinner.
Use it as a topping for a homemade pizza in the summer months.
Make a popcorn chicken wrap with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce in the fall.

What I Learned Testing

Through testing various methods for this Baked Popcorn Chicken, I discovered a few key points:

Letting the chicken rest before breading helps the coating adhere better.
Using a combination of panko and cornmeal gives the chicken an extra crunch that’s irresistible.
Adjusting the cayenne pepper allows you to control the heat level, making it suitable for everyone.
Baking on a wire rack yields the best results for crispiness, as it allows air to circulate all around the chicken.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), here are some storing tips:

Store Baked Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for optimal crispiness.
You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Questions People Ask

Can I make Baked Popcorn Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep it gluten-free.

What can I serve with Baked Popcorn Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, coleslaw, or even sweet potato fries for a comforting meal.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure to bake the chicken on a wire rack, and consider spraying a light layer of cooking oil on top before baking.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces, and the cooking time will remain about the same.

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Final Bite

Baked Popcorn Chicken is a delightful dish that brings joy to any meal. With its crispy exterior and tender chicken inside, it’s sure to be a favorite in your household. The versatility of this recipe means you can enjoy it in many ways, making it a staple for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this deliciously baked treat!