Baked Popcorn Chicken: A Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthier Snack

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders, this Baked Popcorn Chicken is the perfect recipe to try. With juicy chicken pieces marinated in buttermilk and coated in crushed Sour Cream and Onion chips, this dish is full of flavor and has a satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying. It’s an easy and healthier alternative that’s perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or just a tasty treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 cups reduced fat buttermilk
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 cups crushed Sour Cream and Onion Kettle Brand® Potato Chips
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a cooling rack by coating it with nonstick spray and placing it on a baking sheet. This setup will allow the chicken to bake evenly on all sides and stay crispy.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with the buttermilk, smashed garlic, dried basil, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors. The buttermilk will also help tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

3. Coat the Chicken

After marinating, drain the chicken well to remove any excess buttermilk. Working in batches, dredge the chicken pieces in the crushed potato chips, pressing them firmly to ensure they are evenly coated. The chips add a delicious crunch and a burst of flavor to each bite.

4. Prepare for Baking

Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet with the cooling rack. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the chicken. This step helps achieve a golden, crispy finish in the oven.

5. Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy all over. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked through and the coating is golden and crunchy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Baked Popcorn Chicken immediately while it’s still hot and crispy. It pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces or as part of a larger meal.

Serving Information

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Calories: 577 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Perfect Baked Popcorn Chicken

• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes not only infuses it with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
• Use a Cooling Rack: Baking the chicken on a cooling rack allows the heat to circulate around the pieces, ensuring they bake evenly and stay crispy.
• Customize the Coating: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of potato chips or use panko breadcrumbs for a different texture and taste.

Conclusion

This Baked Popcorn Chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With its crispy coating and tender, flavorful meat, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, an appetizer, or a snack, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Give it a try at your next gathering or as a fun family dinner!

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