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This irresistibly crisp Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken is my go-to party bite and movie snack wrapped into one. With chunks of juicy chicken, a crackly coating, and a sweet spicy drizzle, it never fails to disappear fast when friends gather at my place. If you are craving that fried chicken fix but want something fun and shareable, this recipe always steals the show.
When I brought this to my cousins’ game night it was gone before the second round started. Even my picky nephew asked for the sauce recipe.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: Diced for even crispy bites and moist results. Look for fresh chicken with no added sodium or fillers.
- All purpose flour: Helps build a sturdy crust. Use a brand that feels silky and fresh to the touch.
- Cornstarch: Creates extra crunch in the breading. Stick with pure cornstarch for lighter crispiness.
- Garlic powder: Adds mellow depth. Opt for granulated garlic for best dispersion.
- Black pepper: Gives mild bite without overwhelming the honey. Freshly ground pepper brings brighter flavor.
- Salt: Brings out all the other tastes. Use kosher salt for easy measurement and even coverage.
- Eggs: Work as the binding power. Choose large eggs for the perfect ratio.
- Honey: Infuses natural floral sweetness. Local honey can bring even more character.
- Hot sauce: Brings bold heat. Choose a favorite that’s just spicy enough for your crew.
- Vegetable oil: Is for deep frying. Pick a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or sunflower.
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Pat your diced chicken dry with paper towels to help the coating stick. Set the chicken in a bowl and check for any hidden bits of fat or gristle.
- Coat the Chicken:
- In a wide shallow bowl whisk together the flour cornstarch garlic powder black pepper and salt until uniform. Toss your chicken in this dry mixture to fully coat each cube. This helps seal in the juices during frying.
- Dip in Egg:
- Crack two eggs in a small bowl and beat until smooth. Taking a few pieces at a time dip each chunk of coated chicken into the egg making sure every side is glossy with egg wash.
- Double Dredge:
- Lift the eggy pieces and immediately dip them back into the dry flour mix for a second layer of crunch. Press the mixture in gently so you get thick classic popcorn chicken breading.
- Frying the Chicken:
- Pour the oil into a heavy pot such as a Dutch oven to reach two inches deep. Heat over medium flame until a thermometer reads 375F. Fry chicken in small batches for three to four minutes just until golden brown. Move fried pieces onto a plate lined with paper towels to soak excess oil.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small saucepan whisk together honey and hot sauce. Set on the stove at medium heat and stir until it just starts to bubble then take off the heat. The goal is a glossy pourable consistency that coats the chicken.
- Serve It Up:
- Drizzle your hot honey all over the fresh fried popcorn chicken while still warm. Toss gently for full sauce coverage. Serve with extra napkins and watch it vanish.
Every time I make this honey sauce I think of my grandmother’s hot honey jar and how even a drizzle would liven up fried chicken after Sunday church. The honey you pick can completely change the flavor so try to taste and tweak your blend.
Storage Tips
Let leftover popcorn chicken cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to three days. To reheat and keep crispness place pieces on a baking rack in a hot oven for five to ten minutes. Try not to cover tightly right after frying since steam can soften the coating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs work beautifully if you like a bit more richness and tenderness. For a gluten free version swap all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten free blend and double check your hot sauce is gluten free. If you want less heat use only a third as much hot sauce in your honey or do half barbecue sauce for a smoky finish.
Serving Suggestions
I pile these chicken bites on a platter with extra drizzles of hot honey and sprinkle with chopped chives for color. They make amazing sliders when popped in a soft roll with pickles. I also serve with crinkle fries or a cool yogurt ranch for dipping on game day.
Cultural History
Popcorn chicken first caught fire at fast food chains in the nineties but Southern cooks have always been making small crispy chicken pieces for generations. The hot honey trend brings in a southern staple sweet heat inspired by spicy honeys from Tennessee and Texas barbecue. This flavor combination is everywhere now but homemade beats takeout every time.
Seasonal Adaptations
Cube turkey breast after the holidays to keep things festive. Toss with maple syrup and a dash of cayenne in autumn for a fall twist. Top summer salads with popcorn chicken and fresh corn for a complete meal.
Success Stories
A friend swapped the honey for agave syrup and loved the result. My neighbor doubled the recipe for her twins’ birthday and the whole tray was gone in ten minutes. This is one of those dishes where leftovers are almost unheard of.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Bread and fry all the chicken as usual. Let cool on a cooling rack until room temperature. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip top bag. When ready to eat bake from frozen in a hot oven until hot and crisp then toss with your hot honey sauce.
This Hot Honey Popcorn Chicken gets everyone reaching for more. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with sweet heat and crunch in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the popcorn chicken extra crispy?
Use a combination of flour and cornstarch for the coating, and fry in hot oil at 375°F. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- → Can I adjust the heat level of the sauce?
Yes, use less hot sauce or substitute a milder option if you prefer a sweeter glaze with less spice.
- → What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil is recommended for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Cut them into small, even pieces for best results.
- → What should I serve with the popcorn chicken?
Pair with fresh salads, slaw, or fries for a full meal, or enjoy as a flavorful appetizer on game days.