Homemade Chicken Popcorn

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)

1 cup buttermilk

1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

1½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup cornstarch

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine chicken, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a bowl.

Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Prepare the Breading:

In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and all spices.

Coat the Chicken:

Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge in the flour mixture.

Press the flour onto the chicken to get a thick, crispy coating.

Optional: Double dip in buttermilk and flour for extra crunch.

Fry:

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve:

Enjoy hot with dipping sauces like ranch or mushroom sauce.