Buffalo Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken is a fun and delicious snack that’s perfect for any day of the week. The crispy, golden pieces are coated in a tangy buffalo sauce, making each bite packed with flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and great for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Your kids will love it, and it’s a lovely way to enjoy chicken without frying.

Why You Will Love This Buffalo Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

This popcorn chicken is a hit for many reasons. It’s simple to make, using everyday ingredients you likely already have at home. Cooking it in the air fryer means you get that satisfying crunch without all the oil. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have much time.

How to Make Buffalo Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Making this popcorn chicken is quite straightforward. You’ll marinate the chicken to infuse it with flavor, coat it in breadcrumbs, and then let your air fryer do the hard work. In no time, you’ll have warm, crispy treats ready to serve!

What You Need

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Step-by-Step

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In another bowl, place the gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and coat each piece in the breadcrumbs.
Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
Cook in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
Once done, toss the popcorn chicken in buffalo sauce and serve warm.

How to Serve Buffalo Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

These crispy bites are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Pair with celery sticks for a classic experience. They’re also great for game day, movie nights, or any casual gathering with friends and family.

How to Store Buffalo Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. When reheating, warm them up in the air fryer to keep them crispy.

Recipe Tips

For more flavor, add herbs like paprika or cayenne to the breadcrumbs.
Marinating the chicken longer will give even richer flavor.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. This helps achieve that perfect crisp.
If using regular breadcrumbs, adjust cooking time if necessary.
Serve immediately for the best texture; they can become soft over time.

Variations & Swaps

For a milder flavor, swap buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce.
Use chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for added richness.
Try different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just bread and air fry when you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain that fresh and crispy texture.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure to let the chicken cool completely before freezing. Place it in a zip-top bag, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F. This will help restore the crispiness. You can also use an oven, but the air fryer works best!

Can I use different spices or sauces?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different flavors. Honey mustard or teriyaki sauce can work nicely, too. Just adjust according to your taste preferences.

Any mistakes I should avoid?
One common mistake is overcrowding the air fryer. Give each piece space for even cooking. Also, make sure to shake the basket halfway through for optimal crispiness!