A Crispy, Flavored Snack: Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken
When it comes to bite-sized, crispy chicken, Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken is a popular choice for both adults and children. Perfectly seasoned, these golden-brown chicken morsels are covered in a crunchy breading and baked or fried until crispy. They will be a smash whether you serve them as a main course, party starter, or snack!
Now let’s explore the greatest homemade Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken recipe, with serving ideas, modifications, and advice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Crispy & Crunchy: Light, golden breading with a satisfying crunch. ✅ Juicy Inside: Tender, well-seasoned chicken with every bite. ✅ Better Than Store-Bought: Fresher, healthier, and tastier than frozen options. ✅ Quick & Easy: Easy steps, with options for baking, air-frying, or frying.
Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken Recipe Card
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4 minutes per batch |
| Total Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Calories | ~250 per serving |
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces) | 1 lb (450g) |
| Buttermilk | ½ cup |
| Hot sauce (optional, for spice) | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
For the Coating:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | ¼ cup |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
For Frying:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vegetable oil (for deep frying) | As needed |
For Serving (Optional):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ranch dressing | ½ cup |
| Honey mustard | ½ cup |
| Buffalo sauce | ½ cup |
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Place Panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade.
- Dredge each piece in flour mixture, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Repeat for extra crispiness.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a wire rack for best results.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
🔥 Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce!
Pro Tips
✔️ For extra crispy chicken, double coat with egg and breadcrumbs.
✔️ Use a thermometer to maintain the perfect frying temperature.
✔️ Want a healthier version? Try baking or air-frying instead.
Enjoy your homemade, crispy, and delicious Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken! 🍗🔥
What Makes Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken Unique?
Pilgrim’s is renowned for its high-quality, tender chicken that has a crispy, seasoned coating on the outside and remains juicy inside. A well-balanced seasoning mix and double coating technique is the secret, which guarantees that every bite is crunchy and flavorful.
Pilgrim’s-Style Popcorn Chicken Recipe
Selecting the Correct Chicken
Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs for the greatest texture. While breasts offer a slimmer alternative, thighs are juicier.
Adding Flavor by Marinating
Marinate the chicken with spices in buttermilk to achieve the distinctive Pilgrim’s flavor. This improves the flavor and keeps it delicate.
The Ideal Breading Method
Extra crispiness is ensured by a twofold coating method:
- Add seasoned flour to the dough.
- Dip in egg wash or buttermilk.
- For a light, crisp texture, sprinkle with Panko or breadcrumbs.
Suggestions for Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken”
🍟 Side Dishes:
Macaroni with cheese; mashed potatoes with sauce; French fries or sweet potato fries
Buttered coleslaw or corn
🥣 Sauces for Dipping:
Honey mustard, ranch dressing, and spicy mayo
Barbecue sauce
Buffalo sauce
🥗 Better Combinations:
Roasted vegetables and fresh garden salad
Quinoa or cauliflower rice
Top Tips for Crispy Popcorn Chicken
✔️ Double Coat: For the most crunch, dip in flour, buttermilk, and then flour again.
The best light and crispy texture is achieved by using panko breadcrumbs.
✔️ Oil Temperature Matters: Fry at 350°F (175°C) for golden, non-greasy chicken.
✔️ To ensure that the fried chicken stays crispy, drain it properly by placing it on a wire rack rather than paper towels.
✔️ To ensure consistent cooking, fry in small batches and avoid packing the pan too full.
Exciting Variations & Flavor Twists
� Spicy Popcorn Chicken: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
� Garlic Parmesan: Combine cooked chicken with garlic powder, melted butter, and Parmesan.
🍯 Honey Butter Glaze: Pour warm honey butter over the chicken for a sweet-savory twist.
🥒 Pickle-Brined Popcorn Chicken: Marinate chicken in pickle juice for added tangy flavor.
Concluding Reflections
Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken is a simple snack that everyone enjoys because it is the ideal balance of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. This handmade version is superior than any frozen substitute, whether it is fried, baked, or air-fried!
Are you going to dip yours in spicy mayo or ranch? Tell us in the comments below! 🔥
5 Important FAQs About Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken
1. How do I make my popcorn chicken extra crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness:
- Double coat the chicken (flour → buttermilk → flour).
- Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Fry at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) to avoid sogginess.
- Drain on a wire rack, not paper towels, to keep them crispy.
2. Can I make popcorn chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can:
- Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
- Coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before frying.
- Freeze after frying and reheat in an air fryer or oven.
3. What’s the best way to reheat popcorn chicken?
To keep it crispy:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving, as it makes the breading soft.
4. Can I bake or air-fry popcorn chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Here’s how:
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
5. What dipping sauces go best with popcorn chicken?
Popular choices include:
- Classic: Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce.
- Spicy: Buffalo sauce, sriracha mayo.
- Sweet & Tangy: Sweet chili sauce, honey butter glaze.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Pilgrim’s Popcorn Chicken! 🍗🔥
