This recipe for spicy popcorn chicken is irresistible, flavourful, and crispy.

Do you have a need for something incredibly tasty, spicy, and crispy? The perfect bite-sized snack that is bursting with crunch and flavour is Spicy Popcorn Chicken. The crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces covered in a spicy, seasoned crust make this recipe ideal for a party snack, appetiser, or even a quick supper.

This is the recipe for you if you enjoy KFC-style popcorn chicken but would like a homemade version that tastes even better and has more spice. This popcorn chicken is crispy and spicy. Let’s learn how to cook it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Popcorn Chicken

✅ Crispy & Crunchy: Coated in a perfectly seasoned flour and buttermilk mixture for maximum crunch.

✅ Spicy & Flavourful: Packed with the heat of black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

✅ Easy to Make: This recipe is a go-to because it only requires a few simple ingredients and can be prepared quickly.

✅ Great for Any Occasion: Serve it as an appetiser at a party, as a snack, or as part of a full dinner with dips.

Here’s the Spicy Popcorn Chicken Recipe Card in table format:

Spicy Popcorn Chicken Recipe Card

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

For the Coating:

For Frying:

For Serving (Optional):

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix chicken cubes with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder.
2. Add buttermilk and egg, mix well, and coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes (optional but enhances flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Take each marinated chicken piece, coat it in the flour mixture, and press to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry chicken in small batches for 3-4 minutes per batch until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Sprinkle extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes for more heat.
• Serve with spicy mayo, ranch dressing, or hot sauce.

Pro Tips

✔️ Extra Crunch: Double-coat the chicken by dipping back into buttermilk and flour before frying.
✔️ Adjust Spice Level: Reduce cayenne pepper for milder flavor or add hot sauce for more heat.
✔️ Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
✔️ Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Hope you enjoy making this Spicy Popcorn Chicken! 🍗🔥

For serving (optional): – Ranch dressing – Hot sauce – Spicy mayo (mix mayo with hot sauce)

Detailed Directions

The first step is to marinate the chicken.

1. Combine salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chilli powder in a bowl with the chicken cubes.
2. To ensure that the chicken is evenly coated, add the buttermilk and egg and stir thoroughly.
3. For at least 30 minutes, cover and marinate (or overnight for more flavour).

Prepare the Coating in Step Two

1. Combine flour, cornflour, salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a different bowl.
2. Apply the flour mixture to each marinated chicken piece, pressing the coating in to make sure it adheres.

Fry the chicken in step three

1. In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. To avoid overcrowding, fry the coated chicken pieces in small batches.
3. Cook until golden brown and crispy, flipping occasionally, for approximately 3–4 minutes per batch.
4. To get rid of extra oil, remove and drain on a paper towel.

The fourth step is to serve and enjoy. 🔥 For further spiciness, add extra cayenne pepper or chilli flakes. 🍗 Serve with hot sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo. 🥗 For a complete dinner, serve it with fries or a fresh salad.

Expert Advice for the Greatest Spicy Popcorn Chicken

✔️ For Added Crunch: Before frying, dip the chicken twice in flour and buttermilk.

✔️ Modify the Level of Spice: Add more hot sauce for a stronger taste or less cayenne pepper for a softer taste.
✔️To ensure even crispiness, cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
✔️ Oven-Baked Option: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 425°F (220°C), turning halfway through.

Concluding Remarks

This spicy popcorn chicken is the ideal blend of fiery, juicy, and crunchy flavours that will entice you to return for more. It’s sure to be a hit whether you make it for a game night, party, or just as a quick snack!

FAQ

1. Can I make spicy popcorn chicken without deep frying?

Yes! You can air-fry or bake it:

• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray with oil for extra crispiness.

2. How do I make my popcorn chicken extra crispy?

For maximum crunch:

• Use cornstarch in the coating.
• Double coat by dipping the chicken back into buttermilk and flour before frying.
• Fry in small batches to prevent oil temperature from dropping.

3. Can I store and reheat leftover popcorn chicken?

Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in:

• Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid Microwave: It makes the chicken soggy.

4. What can I serve with spicy popcorn chicken?

It pairs well with:

• Dips: Spicy mayo, ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
• Sides: French fries, coleslaw, or garlic bread.
• Meals: Serve over salad, in wraps, or with rice.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can:

• Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
• Coat the chicken and freeze for up to 1 month—just fry directly from frozen when ready.