Indulge in the savory crunch of Popcorn Chicken, a signature KFC favorite, right in your own kitchen! This juicy, flavor-packed snack, crafted from boneless chicken and a special seasoned flour, is a breeze to make at home. Perfect for an evening treat or as a tantalizing starter, this homemade delight promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Combine boneless chicken pieces, milk, salt, chili sauce, ginger garlic paste, lime juice, and pepper powder in a bowl.
Mix thoroughly and let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes.
To Coat the Chicken
Place all-purpose flour, corn starch, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt in a large tray.
Combine these ingredients well to create a uniform coating mixture.
Coat each piece of marinated chicken thoroughly with the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated and gently shake off any excess flour. The chicken is now prepped and ready for frying.
Frying the Chicken
Gently place the flour-coated chicken pieces into medium-heated oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the chicken, occasionally stirring, until each piece turns a golden brown color.
Once fried, remove the Popcorn Chicken from the oil and serve hot, or set aside for final seasoning as desired.
For Spicy Popcorn Chicken
In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili sauce, and garlic powder, mixing well to blend the flavors.
Drizzle this spicy marinade over the fried Popcorn Chicken and toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Your spicy version is now ready to savor and enjoy!
To Serve
Serve this crispy and crunchy KFC-style Popcorn Chicken with ketchup, mayo, or any of your favorite dips for a delightful taste experience.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Popcorn Chicken:
Achieving Crunchiness: The key is in the flour mix. Coat the chicken pieces and fry them immediately for that ideal crispy crunch.
Ensuring Succulent Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the milk marinade, as detailed in the recipe, for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This step guarantees tender, juicy chicken after frying.
Optimal Oil Temperature: Fry the chicken at medium heat to achieve a perfectly golden and crunchy exterior.
Spicy Version: For a fiery twist, toss the fried chicken pieces in chili sauce. Alternatively, sriracha or other hot sauces can be used. To intensify the heat, consider using Szechuan Sauce for an extra spicy kick.