Name: Popcorn Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488172H33M58S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Seasoning Blend:; 2 ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp white pepper, finely ground; 1 tsp celery salt; 2 tsp mustard powder; 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 2 tsp dried basil; 2 tsp dried thyme; 2 tsp dried oregano; 2 tsp sweet paprika; Chicken & Marinade:; 21 oz (600g) chicken thighs, skinless and boneless; 1 cup (250ml) buttermilk; 2 tbsp pickle brine (optional); 1 tbsp of the seasoning blend; Flour Mixture:; 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (50g) cornstarch; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tbsp of the seasoning blend

Description

Popcorn Chicken with Secret Herb and Spices Seasoning is a crispy, flavorful fried chicken made from marinated chicken thighs coated in a seasoned flour mixture. The secret blend of herbs and spices gives it a deliciously savory, aromatic crunch, perfect for snacking or serving with dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

Seasoning Blend:
2 ½ tsp salt
1 tsp white pepper, finely ground
1 tsp celery salt
2 tsp mustard powder
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
2 tsp dried basil
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried oregano
2 tsp sweet paprika
Chicken & Marinade:
21 oz (600g) chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
1 cup (250ml) buttermilk
2 tbsp pickle brine (optional)
1 tbsp of the seasoning blend
Flour Mixture:
2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (50g) cornstarch
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp of the seasoning blend

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix chicken thighs with buttermilk, pickle brine (if using), and 1 tablespoon of the seasoning blend. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of the seasoning blend.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture.
Carefully fry the chicken in batches for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain fried chicken on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures tender, juicy meat.
Adjust seasoning blend quantities to taste if you prefer a spicier or milder flavor.
Maintain oil temperature to prevent soggy or undercooked chicken.
For extra crispiness, double-dredge the chicken in the flour mixture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Popcorn Chicken, crispy chicken, secret seasoning chicken, fried chicken recipe, herb and spice chicken, American snack