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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Fake-Out

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Fake-Out
Finlay Green
Writer and expert3 months ago
View Finlay Green's profile

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
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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

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
1.

First, in a small bowl or ramekin, make a spice mix by adding all the powdered seasonings and stirring together. 

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
2.

Next, take the slices of bread and place in a bowl or jug. Then, using a hand blender, blitz them into dust.

3.

Combine the breadcrumb dust with the chicken mince. Add half of your seasoning mix and stir well to combine everything evenly. Set aside.

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
4.

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.

5.

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.

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
6.

Roll this chicken mince ball into the rice cracker dusting, making sure to coat fully.

7.

Repeat for all the remaining chicken mixture and then place all your coated chicken balls into the air fryer.

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
8.

Cook at 350F/180C for 18 minutes.

air-fryer popcorn chicken recipe
9.

Serve immediately with plenty of sweet chili or barbecue sauce. Delicious.

Nutritional info per serving:

Calories347
Total Fat9g
Total Carbohydrates21g
Protein43g
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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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Finlay Green
Writer and expert
View Finlay Green's profile
Raised from a small town, Finlay always wanted to work with computers and was willing to expand his knowledge anywhere he possibly could. When Finlay was introduced to digital marketing and content writing from a family friend he was immediately hooked and wanted to have a successful career in this industry. Finlay started to write blogs for their website in his own time which were mainly easy yet detailed explanations of digital marketing for beginners. During a difficult time in his life, Finlay developed a passion for the gym and body building and wanting to become the best he could possibly be physically. Finlay's incredibly excited having the opportunity to combine his passion for fitness with content writing. In his spare time aside from the gym, Finlay loves to read Japanese manga, binge series' and game.
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