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Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken

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Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a crispy, flavorful, and bite-sized delight. Coated in a crunchy breading and baked to perfection, these little chicken bites are tossed in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, making them a perfect snack, appetizer, or meal for the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier alternative to fried popcorn chicken
  • Perfectly crispy without deep frying
  • Sweet and tangy flavor that everyone loves
  • Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
  • Great for parties, game nights, or family dinners
  • Kid-friendly and fun to eat

Ingredients

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper
  • All-purpose flour
  • Eggs
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Honey
  • BBQ sauce
  • Olive oil spray

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil.
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Dip each chicken piece into the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat it with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  7. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey and BBQ sauce, stirring until warm and smooth.
  8. Toss the baked chicken pieces in the honey BBQ sauce until well coated.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for a spicy twist.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Extra Crispy: Double-coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps for an extra crunchy texture.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the cooked, uncoated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss in sauce before serving.
  • Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken

FAQs

How do I make the breading stick better?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading and press the panko mixture firmly onto each piece.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide a juicier texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the breaded chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake on a wire rack for even air circulation and crispiness.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for convenience.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free egg substitute like almond milk mixed with cornstarch.

Can I bake instead of fry for a crispier texture?

Yes, baking at a high temperature with a light oil spray ensures crispiness without frying.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try serving with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs and a sugar-free BBQ sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the honey and BBQ sauce longer to reduce and thicken the consistency.

Conclusion

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken is a delicious and healthier take on a classic favorite. With its crispy texture and sweet, smoky flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a party, a weeknight dinner, or just a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

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Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken

Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This crispy, bite-sized baked honey BBQ popcorn chicken is a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite! Coated in a flavorful seasoning, baked until golden, and tossed in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, it’s perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey BBQ Sauce:

 

  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
    • Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for extra tenderness).

  2. Prepare the Breading:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
    • In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, flour, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Coat the Chicken:

    • Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess liquid.
    • Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
    • Place coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.

  4. Bake the Chicken:

    • Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray (this helps with crispiness).
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

  5. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:

    • In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar.
    • Heat until warm, about 2-3 minutes.

  6. Toss & Serve:

    • Transfer baked popcorn chicken to a large bowl and toss with the honey BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
    • Serve immediately with ranch dressing, coleslaw, or extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
  • You can swap buttermilk for regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice.

 

  • This recipe works well with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.

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