This Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a fun twist on your favorite snack! These crunchy little bites are coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce that gives them a tasty kick.
They’re easy to make and perfect for game nights or a quick dinner. I love popping them in the air fryer for a little extra crispiness—yum! Plus, who can resist popcorn chicken? 🍗❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I often use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, go for chicken breast. You could also substitute with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version!
Flour and Cornstarch: All-purpose flour gives a nice base for the coating, while cornstarch adds extra crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch instead. It works great!
Barbecue Sauce: Any BBQ sauce you love will work. I usually go for a smoky flavor—it’s super tasty! If you want something lighter, homemade sauces with less sugar are a great alternative. You can also mix hot sauce with ketchup if BBQ isn’t available.
Honey: Honey gives sweetness, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent substitutes. Just adjust the quantity to your taste since they can be sweeter.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that crispy texture is key to good popcorn chicken! Here’s how you can ensure your chicken is perfectly crunchy:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough—about 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one!
- Coat the chicken twice for extra crunch: dip in egg, then flour, and repeat. It makes a thicker crust.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; fry in batches. It allows the chicken to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
- After frying, let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to have a great batch of Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken each time! Enjoy cooking!
Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping and cooking, followed by a few minutes to make the BBQ sauce. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are about the size of a popcorn kernel—this will help them fry perfectly.
2. Make the Batter and Breading:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken! Dip each piece into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks. For extra crunch, you can dip it back into the egg and coat it in the flour again.
4. Fry the Chicken:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You should have enough oil to cover the chicken pieces when they fry. Fry the chicken in small batches for around 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, you can whip up the honey BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, mix the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Heat it on medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and well combined.
6. Toss Chicken in Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is ready, place the fried popcorn chicken in a large bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss gently until all pieces are coated in that delicious sauce.
7. Serve:
Transfer your honey BBQ popcorn chicken to a serving plate. If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a nice touch. Serve immediately with celery sticks or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and tangy Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cutting and cooking. The best way to thaw is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed chicken in cold water for a few hours.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey BBQ sauce up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness, rather than microwaving it to avoid sogginess.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Of course! If you like it spicy, simply add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the honey BBQ sauce. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce as your base for an extra kick!