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Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken: A Deliciously Crispy Recipe You Must Try


  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 90 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy crispy Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken made with tender marinated chicken pieces, seasoned flour, and a delicious sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day or a fun family dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for the sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (for the sauce)
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the buttermilk. Ensure all the chicken is well-coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
  2. In another bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let excess buttermilk drip off, then dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Place them on a wire rack or plate.
  4. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
  6. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
  7. Place the fried chicken in a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss gently until well-coated.
  8. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken!

Notes

  • Double Dredging: For extra crispiness, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before frying.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintain the right oil temperature for crispy chicken. Too hot will burn the outside; too cool will make it greasy.
  • Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet until golden and cooked through.
  • Prep Time: 60 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes