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Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Delight

  • Author: Clare
  • Total Time: 45 minutes (excluding marination)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken offers a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, without compromising on the crispy, savory goodness that makes popcorn chicken a beloved snack and meal component. This recipe marries the convenience of air frying with a flavorful marinade and breading, resulting in tender, juicy chicken pieces enveloped in a golden, crunchy exterior. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a family-friendly dinner, this Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings for something deliciously crispy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 8 oz light cream cheese, softened
  • 1 egg
  • Juice of 1 lemon or lime
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp homemade chipotle seasoning, divided
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup skim milk
  • Optional: Adobo dipping sauce or Skinny Blue Cheese Dressing for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg, and lemon/lime juice with 1 tablespoon of chipotle seasoning. Mix well and add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Prepare the Breading: In a large ziplock bag, mix the flour with the remaining 2 tablespoons of chipotle seasoning, kosher salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and add a few pieces at a time to the flour mixture in the bag. Shake to coat evenly and place the breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with all chicken pieces.
  4. Double Bread for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier coating, dip the breaded chicken pieces in milk and then back into the flour mixture for a second coating. Arrange the double-breaded chicken on the baking sheet.
  5. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and arrange the chicken pieces in the basket. Spray the chicken generously with olive oil spray and air fry for about 8 minutes. Flip the chicken (if necessary), spray again, and continue to air fry for another 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken, Healthy Snack, Chicken Recipe, Game Night Snack

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Find it online: https://yummyrecipes.woochiens.com/2024/03/21/crispy-air-fryer-popcorn-chicken-delight/