How to Make Air Fryer Popcorn-Crusted Popcorn Chicken - A Step-by-Step Guide

There's nothing quite like the crispy, satisfying crunch of popcorn chicken. And when it's made in an air fryer and coated with popcorn crust, it takes comfort food to a whole new level. This recipe for Air Fryer Popcorn-Crusted Popcorn Chicken is a game-changer for anyone who loves a crunchy, flavorful snack, and it's perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

What sets this recipe apart is the unique twist of using popcorn as the breading for the chicken. No...

Read more Snack recipes

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in bite-sized pieces
  • 6 cups popped popcorn
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • butter flavored cooking spray

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 25 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 6 servings

  • Combine cornstarch, salt, paprika, ground mustard, and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Drop half of the chicken pieces into the bag, seal the bag, shake, and let sit 5 minutes while your air fryer is pre-heating.
  • Set the air fryer to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, place the popped popcorn in a food processor and pulse to a crumb-like consistency. Place crumbs in a separate resealable plastic bag.
  • Dip seasoned chicken pieces first in beaten egg, then drop them into the bag of popcorn crumbs. Shake to coat.
  • Place chicken in the basket of the air fryer. Lightly spray with butter flavored cooking spray. Cook, in batches if needed, for 8 minutes. Flip, mist with spray again, and cook 6 additional minutes.
  • Using tongs, transfer chicken to a paper towel lined plate. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
  • Nutrition

    219 cal.

    • Total Fat: 6g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 131mg
    • Sodium: 473mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 12g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 29g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 24mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 264mg