Who doesn’t love popcorn chicken? It’s crispy, bite-sized, and irresistibly delicious! But what if you could make crispy baked popcorn chicken that’s just as tasty as the fried version—without all the grease? This healthy baked popcorn chicken recipe is a game-changer! Made with juicy chicken breast, panko bread crumbs, Parmesan, and a kick of cayenne, it’s a crispy, flavorful delight. Plus, we’re serving it with a homemade dipping sauce that takes the flavor up a notch!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Popcorn Chicken
- Crispy & Delicious – The perfect crunchy texture without deep-frying.
- Healthier Alternative – Oven-baked instead of fried.
- Simple Ingredients – No fancy ingredients needed!
- Kid-Friendly & Fun – A great recipe for family meals or snacks.
- Customizable – Spice it up or keep it mild—your choice!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup cornmeal
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for greasing
For the Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease two large baking sheets with extra-virgin olive oil.
2. Season the Chicken
Generously season the chicken breast pieces with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Set Up Breading Stations
- In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix panko bread crumbs, cornmeal, Parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
4. Bread the Chicken
- Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
- Coat with the panko mixture, pressing lightly to ensure full coverage.
- Arrange on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer.
5. Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Make the Dipping Sauce
While the chicken is baking, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and cayenne.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately with the homemade dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Baked Popcorn Chicken
- Use Panko Bread Crumbs – They create a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Skip the Cornmeal – It adds extra crunch!
- Spice It Up – Adjust cayenne pepper to taste for a mild or spicy kick.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness – Dip in egg and crumbs twice.
What to Serve with Popcorn Chicken
- Classic Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
- Coleslaw or Grilled Vegetables
- Mac and Cheese
- Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
- A side of BBQ or Ranch Dressing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
2. How do I store leftover baked popcorn chicken?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
3. Can I freeze baked popcorn chicken?
Yes! Freeze on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot.
4. Can I use an air fryer instead?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Skip the Parmesan cheese and use dairy-free mayo for the sauce.
Conclusion
This baked popcorn chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken bites without the extra grease of frying. Whether you’re making it for a party, a snack, or a family meal, it’s bound to be a hit. Plus, with the delicious dipping sauce, you’ll never miss the fast-food version. Try it today and enjoy the best homemade popcorn chicken—crispy, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying!