Best 8 Popcorn Chicken Two Ways Southern Style And Italian Style Recipes

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Craving a delectable and versatile dish that can satisfy your taste buds and transport you to different culinary realms? Look no further than popcorn chicken, a delightful appetizer or main course that offers endless possibilities for experimentation. In this article, we will embark on a culinary journey, exploring two distinct styles of popcorn chicken: the soulful flavors of the Southern United States and the vibrant zest of Italy. Whether you prefer the comforting embrace of Southern comfort food or the lively energy of Italian cuisine, we have curated the perfect recipes to tantalize your palate. Get ready to master the art of crafting crispy, juicy popcorn chicken with the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let's dive into the world of Southern-style popcorn chicken, where crispy exteriors meet tender interiors, and every bite is a symphony of spices and herbs. We'll then transport ourselves to the vibrant landscapes of Italy, where popcorn chicken takes on a Mediterranean twist, infused with tangy marinades, aromatic herbs, and the irresistible charm of Italian cheeses.

Let's cook with our recipes!

POPCORN CHICKEN



Popcorn Chicken image

Bite-sized pieces of chicken that are sure to be a family favorite. I love to serve it with homemade mashed potatoes and green beans.

Provided by Megan

Categories     Meat and Poultry Recipes     Chicken     Fried Chicken Recipes

Time 28m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 8

3 cups flour
2 teaspoons garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 eggs
2 tablespoons lemon juice
oil for frying
3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cubed

Steps:

  • Mix flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl. Beat eggs and lemon juice together in a separate bowl.
  • Heat 1 1/2 to 2 inches of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and again into the flour mixture.
  • Test the oil to make sure it is hot enough: a small amount of flour dropped in should sizzle. Place 10 pieces of chicken into the hot oil; cook until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel lined plate and season with salt. Repeat with remaining chicken.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 450.7 calories, Carbohydrate 49 g, Cholesterol 95.6 mg, Fat 18.4 g, Fiber 1.8 g, Protein 21 g, SaturatedFat 2.9 g, Sodium 247.9 mg, Sugar 0.6 g

JAPANESE POPCORN CHICKEN (KARAAGE) RECIPE BY TASTY



Japanese Popcorn Chicken (Karaage) Recipe by Tasty image

Crispy, delicious fried chicken is one of life's greatest pleasures, but every once in a while, you feel the desire to mix things up. That's where this recipe for Japanese popcorn chicken steps into the picture. It's everything you love about fried chicken but what a Japanese kick, thanks to a handful of ingredients like garlic, ginger, sake, soy sauce, and sesame oil. They're the perfect way to spice up game day...or any day.

Provided by Alvin Zhou

Categories     Appetizers

Time 20m

Yield 2 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

3 boneless chicken thighs, chopped into 1-inch chunks
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tablespoons ginger, finely grated or minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sake
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sugar
½ cup potato starch
oil, for frying
lemon wedge
fresh parsley

Steps:

  • Combine the chicken with the garlic, ginger, soy, sake, sesame oil, and sugar in a bowl until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour.
  • Heat oil in a pot over high heat until about 340°F (170°C).
  • Give the chicken a stir to re-incorporate the marinade, then sprinkle the potato starch on top. Lightly toss until somewhat combined, but do not mix until each chicken piece is evenly coated because the uneven pockets of potato starch will give the chicken its signature unique texture.
  • Fry half of the chicken at a time, until light golden and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes. The oil temperature will drop to about 320°F (160°C). Rest the chicken on paper towels and increase the heat.
  • Heat oil to about 390°F (200°C), then fry the chicken again for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain the chicken on paper towels.
  • Serve with lemon and parsley.
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 569 calories, Carbohydrate 46 grams, Fat 28 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 29 grams, Sugar 6 grams

SWEET-AND-SOUR POPCORN CHICKEN



Sweet-and-Sour Popcorn Chicken image

This sweet and sour chicken dish is one you'll find yourself returning to again and again. Pre-cooked, frozen popcorn chicken simmered in a thick, homemade sweet-and-sour sauce is the secret to this fast and fabulous recipe. And what a great way to dress up frozen chicken nuggets! -Amy Corlew-Sherlock, Lapeer, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 25m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 package (12 ounces) frozen popcorn chicken
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 medium green pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 can (20 ounces) unsweetened pineapple chunks
3 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Hot cooked rice, optional
Optional toppings: green onions and sesame seeds

Steps:

  • Microwave chicken according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add green pepper and onion; stir-fry until crisp-tender, 3-4 minutes. Drain pineapple, reserving the juice in a 2-cup measuring cup; set pineapple aside. Add enough water to the juice to measure 1-1/3 cups; stir in vinegar, soy sauce and ketchup. , In a large bowl, combine brown sugar and cornstarch. Stir in pineapple juice mixture until smooth. Gradually add to the skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in chicken and pineapple; heat through. If desired, serve with rice and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 441 calories, Fat 15g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 26mg cholesterol, Sodium 1143mg sodium, Carbohydrate 65g carbohydrate (41g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 12g protein.

POPCORN CHICKEN (TAIWANESE)



Popcorn Chicken (Taiwanese) image

These Taiwanese popcorn chicken bites are addictively delicious. Chinese five-spice, ginger, and soy sauce flavor the crispy batter and they are ready in under 30 minutes.

Provided by brandon

Categories     Appetizers and Snacks     Meat and Poultry     Chicken

Time 45m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 ½ pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
1 tablespoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 teaspoons grated ginger
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 egg
1 cup tempura batter mix, or as needed
peanut oil for frying
1 bunch Thai basil, chopped
2 green onions, chopped
1 pinch ground white pepper
1 pinch salt

Steps:

  • Combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, five-spice powder, white pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper in a large bowl. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Whisk egg in a small bowl until smooth. Pour tempura batter mix into a second small bowl. Dip chicken pieces one at a time into the egg, then dredge in tempura batter mix, shaking off any excess. Lower chicken pieces carefully into the hot oil in batches. Fry until chicken is golden brown, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat with remaining chicken.
  • Serve chicken sprinkled with basil leaves, green onions, white pepper, and salt.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 524.3 calories, Carbohydrate 14.3 g, Cholesterol 162.8 mg, Fat 35.5 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 35.8 g, SaturatedFat 6.4 g, Sodium 1057 mg, Sugar 0.5 g

EASY POPCORN CHICKEN RECIPE



Easy Popcorn Chicken Recipe image

Popcorn chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Satisfying and the ultimate comfort food. Great as an appetizer or salad topping.

Provided by Natalya Drozhzhin

Categories     Easy

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 7

3 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
5 tbsp all purpose flour
1 1/2 tbsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups panko crumbs
1 cup oil (vegetable or canola)

Steps:

  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic powder.
  • Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl and the panko crumbs onto a plate.
  • Dredge a piece of chicken into the flour mixture until evenly coated then dip in buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Lastly, roll in panko bread crumbs until evenly coated. Transfer to a platter.
  • Preheat 1-inch of oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Adjust the heat to keep the oil at 350˚F. Fry the popcorn chicken in small batches, leaving space between each piece and flipping as needed. Fry until golden brown and 165˚F at the deepest part of the chicken on a thermometer.
  • Remove the popcorn chicken from the oil and let it rest on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 385 kcal, Carbohydrate 13 g, Protein 39 g, Fat 19 g, SaturatedFat 3 g, TransFat 1 g, Cholesterol 111 mg, Sodium 1604 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 1 g, UnsaturatedFat 13 g, ServingSize 1 serving

CULVER CREST POPCORN CHICKEN



Culver Crest Popcorn Chicken image

Provided by Daphne Brogdon

Categories     main-dish

Time 2h5m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 teaspoons ground fennel seed
2 teaspoons ground mustard seed
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup buttermilk
1 small onion, sliced
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons ground fennel seed
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Canola oil, for frying

Steps:

  • For the chicken and marinade: Cut each chicken thigh into bite-size pieces, approximately 1 1/2 by 1 1/2 inches.
  • In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the fennel, mustard, salt and black pepper. Add the chicken and massage the bag so the chicken is thoroughly coated in the spices. Add the buttermilk and onions, and massage the bag again to mix the ingredients. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.
  • For the breading: Set up a breading station by lining up 3 small baking dishes or pie plates. In one dish, add the flour. In the second, whisk the eggs with 3 tablespoons water. In the third, mix together the panko, fennel, paprika, salt and black pepper.
  • A few pieces at a time, remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off before dredging in the flour. Shake off the excess flour and then dunk the chicken in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off. Finally, dredge in the panko mixture, making sure the chicken pieces are completely coated.
  • Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and refrigerate, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Fill a large, heavy skillet with about an inch of canola oil and heat to 350 degrees F over medium heat.
  • In batches, fry the chicken in the oil until golden brown all over, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain on a paper-towel-lined baking sheet.

SWEET AND SOUR POPCORN CHICKEN



Sweet and Sour Popcorn Chicken image

This recipe is as equally delicious as it is easy! A lazy way to make sweet and sour chicken that tastes amazingly good! Just mix sauce ingredients in a 2-cup Measuring Cup. I found it in a Taste of Home magazine and hope to post it here for safekeeping!

Provided by Marigoodygood

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 25m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 green pepper, chopped
1 onion, sliced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 (20 ounce) can unsweetened pineapple chunks
3 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1/3 cup packed brown sugar (I prefer dark brown)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 (12 ounce) package frozen popcorn chicken (any variety works well)

Steps:

  • In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry green pepper and onion in oil for 3-4 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain pineapple, reserving the juice in a 2-cup measuring cup; set pineapple aside. Add enough water to the juice to measure 1-1/3 cups; stir in the vinegar, soy sauce and ketchup.
  • In a large bowl, combine brown sugar and cornstarch. Stir in pineapple juice mixture until smooth. Gradually add to the skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add pineapple. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4-5 minutes or until heated through.
  • Meanwhile, microwave chicken according to package directions. Stir into pineapple mixture. Serve immediately over rice.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 217.6, Fat 3.7, SaturatedFat 0.5, Sodium 597.5, Carbohydrate 46.7, Fiber 3.1, Sugar 35, Protein 2.4

POPCORN FRIED CHICKEN (INDIAN STYLE) RECIPE BY TASTY



Popcorn Fried Chicken (Indian Style) Recipe by Tasty image

Here's what you need: chicken breasts, chili powder, turmeric, salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, breadcrumb, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, egg wash, oil

Provided by Ellie Holland

Categories     Appetizers

Yield 2 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

3 chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
½ lemon lemon juice
1 cup breadcrumb
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
egg wash
4 cups oil, for frying

Steps:

  • Prepare the spice marinade by mixing all the spices together with the chicken.
  • Cover with cling film and leave to marinate for 1 hour.
  • Next, prepare the spice coating by mixing the bread crumbs, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt and pepper together.
  • Coat each chicken piece in egg wash, followed by the spice coating.
  • Heat the oil in a deep saucepan to 350°F (180°C).
  • Carefully place each chicken piece in the oil using a slotted spoon and fry for about 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Serve with salad and favourite dips of your choice.
  • Enjoy!

### Southern-Style Popcorn Chiken **Preparation**: - Ensure the chicken is cut into 1-inch pieces and rinsed. - Combine the chicken, buttermilk, hot peppers, and Worcestershire in a large bowl. - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally, up to 12 hours. **Cooking**: - In a big pot, heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. - Take the chicken out of the buttermilk and coat it with the seasoned mixture. - Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. - Drain the chicken on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. ### Italian-Style Popcorn Chiken **Preparation**: - Combine the chicken, Italian seasoning mix, paprika, and salt in a large bowl. - Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. **Cooking**: - In a big skillet, heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. - Dredge the chicken in the seasoned mixture. - Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown. - Drain the chicken on paper towels and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. ### General Cooking and Serving Suggestions: - Utilize a deep pot or fryer for best results. - To achieve crispy chicken, dry the chicken pieces properly before seasoning. - For a quick seasoning, use store-bought options. - Consider using a variety of dipping sauces for added taste. - Elevate the dish with side options like french fries, coleslaw, or a refreshing side. ### Nutritional Considerations: - Be mindful of the oil's temperature to avoid potential health issues. - Popcorn chicken can be a delightful occasional treat. - Regarding dietary concerns, consult a registered dietitian or medical professional for personalized advice. ### In conclusion: With these detailed tips and tricks, you'll be able to make delicious popcorn chicken in no time! So go ahead, try out these delicious Southern-style or Italian-style popcorn chicken and enjoy a memorable meal with your family or friends.

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