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Air Fryer Buffalo Popcorn Chicken Recipe

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4 from 9 reviews

This Air Fryer Buffalo Popcorn Chicken recipe features crispy, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a flavorful blend of spices and gluten-free breadcrumbs, air fried to perfection, and tossed in spicy buffalo sauce paired with creamy ranch dressing. Ready in just 40 minutes, this crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for a quick snack or appetizer with a healthier twist using the air fryer for a crispy finish without deep frying.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

Coating

  • 1/2 cup gluten free all purpose baking flour (can substitute regular flour)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Breading

  • 2 eggs, whisked
  • 1 1/2 cups gluten free breadcrumbs (can substitute regular breadcrumbs)

Sauces

  • 1 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing (see notes)

Instructions

  1. Cut Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces about 1 inch in size to ensure even cooking and a perfect bite.
  2. Whisk Flour and Spices: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful coating mixture.
  3. Coat Chicken with Flour Mixture: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the seasoned flour mixture and toss thoroughly to evenly coat each piece.
  4. Prepare Egg and Breadcrumb Bowls: Whisk the eggs in one bowl and place the gluten-free breadcrumbs in a separate bowl for the breading process.
  5. Dip Chicken in Egg and Breadcrumbs: Dip each flour-coated chicken piece first into the whisked eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumbs to fully cover each piece.
  6. Arrange Chicken on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet to keep them organized before cooking in the air fryer.
  7. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F to achieve an optimal crispy texture.
  8. Air Fry Chicken: Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, tossing halfway through. Check doneness after 10 minutes and cook up to 2 additional minutes if needed.
  9. Cool Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken pieces cool for 10 minutes. This helps set the crispy coating.
  10. Mix and Toss With Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and buffalo sauce. Pour the mixture over the crispy chicken and toss until well coated.
  11. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for a delicious, spicy popcorn chicken snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • You can substitute regular all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs if gluten free options are unavailable.
  • Adjust buffalo sauce quantity to your preferred spice level.
  • Using ranch dressing provides a cooling balance but feel free to serve it on the side instead.
  • Ensure air fryer basket is not overcrowded for the crispiest results.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/air-fryer-buffalo-popcorn-chicken-recipe/