Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsThe Iowa TaproomPopcorn Chicken Recipe

Popcorn Chicken Recipe

Inspired by The Iowa Taproom
Time40m
Serves4

Bite-sized nuggets of chicken coated in a seasoned breading and deep fried. Try them tossed in your favorite wing sauce!

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Ingredients

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Chicken Preparation

Sauce (optional)

Method

Chicken Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Chicken

    Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to ensure even coating. Add the egg and mix until the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for 15 minutes.

Breading Mixture

  1. 2

    Prepare the Breading

    In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, bread crumbs, dried oregano, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Frying

  1. 3

    Heat the Oil

    In a large, deep pot or a deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is ready.

  2. 4

    Coat the Chicken

    Take each piece of marinated chicken and coat it thoroughly in the breading mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.

  3. 5

    Fry the Chicken

    Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Sauce

  1. 6

    Toss in Sauce

    If desired, toss the fried popcorn chicken in your favorite buffalo wing sauce before serving for an extra kick of flavor.

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