Sweet and Spicy Chicken Popcorns: A Super Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious snack that combines sweet and spicy flavors with a crispy crunch, look no further than Sweet and Spicy Chicken Popcorns. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or just a satisfying treat. In just a few simple steps, you can create a snack that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into this recipe and discover how to make these irresistible chicken bites!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Popcorn:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)

1 large egg

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

1/4 cup honey

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust based on your heat preference)

1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp grated ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)

Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cut the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures that they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

Marinate: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk (or regular milk) with the egg. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.

2. Prepare the Flour Mixture

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will create a crispy coating for the chicken.

Coat the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of flour into the oil; if it bubbles and floats, it’s ready.

Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Keep Warm: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep the chicken warm in a preheated oven (about 200°F or 93°C) while you prepare the sauce.

4. Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce

Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil (if using).

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously.

Adjust Flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference. Add more honey for sweetness or more sriracha for extra heat if desired.

5. Coat the Chicken

Toss in Sauce: Place the warm, crispy chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the sweet and spicy sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat evenly. Make sure all the pieces are well-coated with the sauce.

Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the coated chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve: Transfer the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Popcorns to a serving platter. They are best enjoyed immediately while they’re still warm and crispy.

Accompaniments: These chicken bites can be served on their own or with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for extra flavor. They also pair well with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations

Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free soy sauce.

Oven-Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time, then freeze the uncooked pieces. When ready to cook, thaw them and fry as directed. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Popcorns are a versatile and crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a solo treat, these flavorful bites are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and heat with every crispy, golden piece!