This Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a fun and tasty snack that’s perfect for any gathering! Juicy chicken bites are coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze that keeps you coming back for more.
What’s not to love about crispy chicken with a honey kick? I always make sure to have extra napkins on hand because you won’t be able to stop munching on these little nuggets of joy! 🐔✨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken breast for its lean quality, but you can also use thighs for more flavor. If you need a vegetarian option, try using tofu or cauliflower florets, just adjust the cooking time!
Flour & Cornstarch: All-purpose flour gives a great texture, while cornstarch adds extra crispiness. You can swap in gluten-free flour for the same results if you’re avoiding gluten.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and onion powder are key for flavor. If you want to spice things up, consider adding some cayenne pepper or chili powder for a kick. Fresh minced garlic and onion can work in a pinch, but will change the texture.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Homemade is great too. If you prefer a tangy flavor, opt for a vinegar-based sauce. Adjust the amount of honey based on how sweet you like it.
How Do You Ensure Extra Crispy Chicken?
Getting that perfect crispy coating is all about the double-dipping technique! It gives you a thicker crust that’s super satisfying when you bite in. Here’s how to do it:
- After coating the chicken pieces in the wet mix, let any excess drip off before dredging them in the dry mix.
- Repeat the dip into the wet mixture, and then back into the dry mix again. This extra layer makes your chicken crunchier!
Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before frying. If it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy instead of crispy!
Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup honey
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have this delicious Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken ready in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces, about the size of a popcorn kernel. This will help them cook quickly and evenly!
2. Make the Dry Mix:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your dry coating.
3. Make the Wet Mix:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This mixture helps the dry coating stick to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Begin by dipping the chicken pieces into the wet mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dredge them in the dry flour mixture, pressing lightly to make sure they stick. For an extra crispy finish, feel free to repeat this step and coat the chicken twice!
5. Heat the Oil:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces so they’ll fry evenly.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove them using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
7. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce and honey. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through and well mixed.
8. Toss the Chicken:
Place the crispy chicken bites in a large bowl. Pour the warm honey BBQ sauce over them and gently toss to ensure every piece is nicely coated.
9. Serve:
Transfer the Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken to a serving bowl and, if you’d like, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve immediately while they’re warm and enjoy!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and tangy Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use turkey breast, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary; for example, shrimp will cook much faster than chicken.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the BBQ sauce used is gluten-free as well. Cornstarch is already gluten-free, making it suitable for this recipe!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). After coating the chicken, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.