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Popcorn Chicken

Make authentic Popcorn Chicken with this foolproof recipe. Packed with rich traditional flavor, step-by-step photos, and cooking tips by Denisiya on EatMee Recipes.

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By DenisiyaPublished on September 4, 2018
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Popcorn Chicken
⏱️
Prep Time15 mins
🍳
Cook Time34 mins
⌛
Total Time49 mins
🍽️
ServingsServes 2-3
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Popcorn Chicken also known as pops, are bite sized chicken pieces, coated & fried until golden. They are tender on the inside & crispy on the outside.

If you have kids then you know that these are a must for them. Although I must admit, these pops are highly addictive for the adults too.

Now you can make these bite sized treats with no fuss at all.

🥗

Ingredients

Scale:
Base Yield: Serves 2-3
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Step-by-Step Instructions

14 Steps
  1. Step 1

    Rinse the chicken fillets.

    Step 1 visual guide
  2. Step 2

    Dice the chicken fillets into bite sized chunks.

    Step 2 visual guide
  3. Step 3

    Place the chunks of chicken into a bowl.

    Step 3 visual guide
  4. Step 4

    Pour the milk & vinegar into the bowl of chicken. Alternatively, you may use buttermilk. Allow the chicken to soak in the milk for 30 minutes. This will allow for the chicken to get that moist & tender texture.

    Step 4 visual guide
  5. Step 5

    Next, add the flour, salt, cumin (jeera) powder, garam masala, dhania powder, garlic powder, chili powder, dried mixed herbs red chili flakes, ground black pepper & the chicken spice to a bowl.

    Step 5 visual guide
  6. Step 6

    Mix well.

    Step 6 visual guide
  7. Step 7

    When the chicken is done soaking, it’s time to start coating them.

    Step 7 visual guide
  8. Step 8

    Take one piece of chicken at a time & dunk it into the flour mixture, making sure to properly coat it.

    Step 8 visual guide
  9. Step 9

    Place all the coated chicken chunks onto a plate.

    Step 9 visual guide
  10. Step 10

    Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep pot for deep frying. When the oil is hot, carefully drop in the coated chicken chunks.Test the oil by putting in one of the chunks – it should sizzle. Do not over crowd the pot.

    Step 10 visual guide
  11. Step 11

    Fry the chicken for ±4 minutes until golden.

    Step 11 visual guide
  12. Step 12

    Drain the Popcorn Chicken on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

    Step 12 visual guide
  13. Step 13

    Serve whilst hot & crispy.

    Step 13 visual guide
  14. Step 14

    Goes well with Crunchy Coleslaw. This Popcorn Chicken can also be used to make the Famous Bowl or it may be served as is.

    Step 14 visual guide
Video Tutorial

Watch How It's Made

Follow along with Denisiya's step-by-step video guide for Popcorn Chicken.

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Frequently Asked Questions & Cooking Tips

Expert kitchen guidance and troubleshooting for making the best Popcorn Chicken

Can I adjust the spice and chilli levels in Popcorn Chicken?

Absolutely! You can easily tailor the heat by increasing or reducing the chili powder and fresh chilies to suit your family’s palate without compromising the authentic flavor profile.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Popcorn Chicken in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers for best flavor?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Denisiya - Founder & Chef at EatMee Recipes
About the Creator

Meet Denisiya

Hi, I'm Denisiya! Food lover, recipe developer, and founder of EatMee Recipes. I specialize in authentic South African Durban Indian cuisine, comforting curries, and modern Instant Pot adaptations. Every recipe on this site is tested in my personal kitchen to ensure you get mouth-watering, foolproof results every time.

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