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Baked Popcorn Chicken: Crispy, Crunchy, and Totally Irresistible

Baked Popcorn Chicken: Crispy, Crunchy, and Totally Irresistible

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This Baked Popcorn Chicken is the perfect healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. Each bite-sized piece is coated in a crispy, seasoned breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, kid-friendly meal that’s great for snacking, dinner, or as a party appetizer. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun and delicious meal!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Set Up Coating Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
  5. Bake Until Crispy: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Using panko breadcrumbs creates the crispiest texture.
  • Spraying with olive oil helps achieve a fried-like crispiness.
  • To make it spicy, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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