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Homemade Air-Fryer Popcorn Chicken photo

Air-Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Crispy, bite-sized popcorn chicken made quickly in the air fryer.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • 3 shallow bowls or plates
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or fork

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • olive oil spray for spraying the coated chicken

Instructions
 

  • Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
  • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Beat the eggs in a second shallow bowl.
  • Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
  • Working in batches, dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, shake off excess, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (about 200°C).
  • Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket without touching; spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray.
  • Air-fry for 10 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through and spraying again, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
  • Remove from the air fryer and let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
  • Patting chicken dry helps the coating adhere.
  • Use a light, even spray of oil for best crisping.
  • Adjust internal temperature to 165°F if checking doneness.