Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken Recipe Air Fryer
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a popular street food in Taiwan known for its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful chicken pieces. This recipe puts a healthier twist on the classic dish by using an air fryer instead of deep frying. The result is still deliciously crunchy and addictive, perfect for snacking or as a main dish.
Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutesIngredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup potato starch or cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions: How to Cook Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken Air Fryer
- In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, rice wine, five-spice powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, potato starch or cornstarch, beaten egg, and water to create a batter. The consistency should be thick but still pourable.
- Coat each marinated chicken piece in the batter, then roll in panko breadcrumbs mixed with sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Cook in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, transfer the popcorn chicken to a serving plate and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
