Friday night takeout cravings can be so tempting. Well, we’ve got something to satisfy them without breaking the bank or your macros with these delicious, easy-to-make air fryer popcorn chicken bites.
Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but there’s also no need for a deep-fat fryer. As long as you have an air-fryer, you’re set.
Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Recipe
- Servings
- 2 servings
- Prep Time
- 20 minutes
- Cook Time
- 18 minutes
- Passive Time
- 18 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 300 g chicken mince
- 2 tsp. garlic powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp. ginger powder
- 2 lightly salted rice cakes
- sugar-free sauce (sweet chili or barbecue) for dipping
Instructions
First, in a small bowl or ramekin, make a spice mix by adding all the powdered seasonings and stirring together.
Next, take the slices of bread and place in a bowl or jug. Then, using a hand blender, blitz them into dust.
Combine the breadcrumb dust with the chicken mince. Add half of your seasoning mix and stir well to combine everything evenly. Set aside.
In a new bowl or jug, blitz up the rice crackers in the same way as the sliced bread to make a fine powder. Add the remaining half of your spice mix and stir well to combine.
Now you’re ready to assemble your popcorn chicken. Use a spoon to gather a teaspoon-sized amount of the chicken mixture and then use your fingers to roll into a small ball.
Roll this chicken mince ball into the rice cracker dusting, making sure to coat fully.
Repeat for all the remaining chicken mixture and then place all your coated chicken balls into the air fryer.
Cook at 350F/180C for 18 minutes.
Serve immediately with plenty of sweet chili or barbecue sauce. Delicious.
Nutritional info per serving:
| Calories | 347 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Protein | 43g |
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What is Popcorn Chicken?
Popcorn chicken is an iconic fast-food fave and once you have one, you can’t resist helping yourself to ten more. This healthy spin on this irresistible treat is packed with 43g of protein and only 347cal per serving.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Like I said earlier, Friday night cravings should not be messed with. However, if you’re not looking to break the bank or your diet, this will most definitely satisfy the cravings, and better yet, once you have these, you won’t look back.
Can You Meal Prep Popcorn Chicken?
This recipe is incredibly easy to prep. Whether you want to make it a full meal or just need a midday snack, this has got you covered. Adjust the amount of ingredients so you are fully prepared for the upcoming week.
How to Reheat Popcorn Chicken
The best way to reheat popcorn chicken is to place them on a foiled baking tray and place them in the oven on medium-high heat until they are piping hot.
How Long Do You Put Popcorn Chicken in the Air Fryer?
As instructed in the recipe – you keep the popcorn chicken in the air fryer for 18 mins on 350F.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Different sauces (ketchup, mayo, BBQ)
- Replace the bread for corn flakes or corn-based chips
- Throw in a hint of spice – add some cayenne pepper if you like
What Can I Serve With Popcorn Chicken?
- Fries
- Dipping sauces
- Coleslaw
- Salad
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Small bowl or ramekin
- Hand blender
- Spoon
Popcorn Chicken Recipe
FAQs
What type of oil should I use to air fry?
No oil is needed, simply slap them in the air fryer and they’ll be ready to eat.
Can I freeze popcorn chicken?
It’s very easily freezable, simply put them in freezer bags and you can keep them frozen for two months maximum.
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