Description
This Healthy KFC Popcorn Chicken recipe recreates the iconic fast-food favorite in a wholesome and flavorful way. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a seasoned flour mixture and lightly dipped in egg whites, these bite-sized chicken pieces deliver the perfect crunch without the excess fat and calories of traditional fried versions. With a blend of aromatic spices like paprika, garlic powder, and Italian herbs, this homemade popcorn chicken is great for a snack or meal served alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup mixed with sriracha for a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1.7 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 egg whites, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1½ tsp Italian herb seasoning
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp celery salt
- 1/4 tsp ginger powder
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Dip
- Ketchup + Sriracha, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for popcorn chicken. Ensure the pieces are even in size for uniform cooking.
- Mix the Coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all purpose flour, baking powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, Italian herb seasoning, mustard powder, celery salt, ginger powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices.
- Dip the Chicken: Lightly beat the 2 egg whites in a separate bowl. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg whites to moisten, then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat with a small amount of oil (optional for healthier version, use non-stick pan and minimal oil). Add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). If preferred, these can be baked in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, for an even healthier version.
- Serve: Remove the cooked popcorn chicken from the pan and drain on paper towels if fried. Serve warm with optional dipping sauce of ketchup mixed with sriracha for a spicy and tangy flavor boost.
Notes
- Use chicken breast for leaner meat; thighs can be substituted for juicier texture but higher fat.
- To make this recipe gluten free, replace all purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and sriracha dip to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- For a lower fat option, bake the coated chicken in the oven instead of frying.
- Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size so they cook evenly.
Keywords: Popcorn Chicken, Healthy KFC Style Chicken, Baked Chicken Bites, Low Fat Chicken Snacks, Homemade Popcorn Chicken, Kid-friendly Snack