This Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a fun twist on a classic snack! Crunchy chicken bites are coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce that makes every bite super tasty.
It’s perfect for game nights or just when you want something yummy to munch on. I like to make extra so I can enjoy some during my favorite shows—guess who ends up eating most of them? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breast or thighs for this recipe. I often prefer thighs for their juiciness, but either option works well. If you want a healthier approach, you could try using turkey or even tofu cubes for a vegetarian version!
Buttermilk: This ingredient helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, a simple substitute is to mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up a bit!
Flour and Cornstarch: This combination creates a super crunchy coating. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flour instead. Almond flour is another great alternative for extra flavor!
Honey BBQ Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or make your own! Just mix BBQ sauce with honey, and you’re good to go! If you need it vegan, a plant-based BBQ sauce is a perfect swap with agave nectar instead of honey.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
For that perfect crispy texture, it’s all about the frying technique. Here’s how you can ensure your chicken is nice and crunchy:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F (175°C). You can test this by dropping in a small piece of batter; if it bubbles and rises, you’re ready.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches so the temperature stays consistent and each piece can fry evenly.
- Let the chicken rest on a paper towel after frying to absorb excess oil. This keeps them from getting soggy!
Following these tips will help you achieve that delightful crunch every time! Enjoy your 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 buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional for brightness)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for a smoky/spicy touch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking, plus a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have the time). In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour to prepare and enjoy your tasty Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and toss until each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor and tenderness!
2. Prep the Coating:
In another large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what will give your chicken that crunchy, flavorful coating!
3. Heat the Oil:
Next, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you have enough oil so the chicken can float while cooking—that’s the secret to crispy bites!
4. Dredge the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. One piece at a time, shake off any excess buttermilk, then dip the chicken into the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure a good coat. Repeat until all chicken pieces are breaded!
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each batch for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked all the way through. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
6. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, grab a small saucepan and combine BBQ sauce, honey, butter, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika (if using). Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the sauce gets warm.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once all the chicken is fried, place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm Honey BBQ sauce over the top and gently toss the chicken until each piece is evenly coated with deliciousness!
8. Serve:
Transfer the coated popcorn chicken onto a serving plate. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions for extra color. Enjoy it hot—with some extra Honey BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your crispy, sweet, and tangy Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before marinating. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
Can I Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the Honey BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to use it!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for maximum crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Definitely! To add heat, incorporate cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour mixture. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce to ramp up the flavor! Adjust according to your spice tolerance for the best results.
