Baked popcorn chicken is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering all the crispy, savory goodness of traditional fried popcorn chicken with a healthier touch. Imagine bite-sized pieces of tender chicken breast, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb or panko crust, then baked to golden perfection in the oven.
Each morsel boasts a satisfying crunch as you bite through the crisp exterior, revealing juicy, succulent chicken within. The seasoning adds a burst of flavor with every bite, tantalizing your taste buds with a perfect balance of herbs and spices. Whether it’s a standalone snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or the star of a meal, baked popcorn chicken never fails to deliver on taste and texture.
One of the great appeals of baked popcorn chicken lies in its versatility. It’s a blank canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings and dips to suit your palate. Some may prefer a classic blend of garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper for a simple yet satisfying flavor profile, while others may opt for a spicy kick with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Despite its indulgent taste, baked popcorn chicken offers a healthier alternative to its deep-fried counterpart. By baking instead of frying, you significantly reduce the amount of oil used in the cooking process, resulting in a lighter, guilt-free dish without sacrificing any of the flavor or crunch.
But perhaps the best part of baked popcorn chicken is the joy it brings to any occasion. Whether served as a game-day snack, a quick weeknight dinner, or a fun addition to a party spread, it has a universal appeal that transcends age and preference. Its convenient bite-sized format makes it perfect for sharing, while its irresistible flavor ensures that every last piece will be devoured in no time.
In essence, baked popcorn chicken is comfort food at its finest—simple yet satisfying, crispy yet tender, and endlessly customizable to suit any taste or occasion. So whether you’re craving a nostalgic snack from your childhood or looking to impress guests with a crowd-pleasing appetizer, baked popcorn chicken is sure to hit the spot.
Baked Popcorn Chicken – A healthier alternative to the deep-fried version with the best crispy potato chip crust!! No one will believe that this is baked!
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 cups low-fat buttermilk
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups crushed Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a cooling rack with nonstick spray and place on a baking sheet; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine chicken, buttermilk, garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper, to taste; marinate for at least 30 minutes. Drain well.
Working in batches, dredge chicken in crushed potato chips, pressing to coat. Place onto the prepared baking sheet; drizzle with butter.
Place into oven and bake, turning pieces halfway through, until crisp and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.
