KFC CHICKEN POPCORN

Ingredients:

For the chicken marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into small bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For frying:

• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the chicken marinade.
2. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
3. In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, salt, and pepper to create the coating mixture.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
6. Take each piece of chicken from the marinade and toss it into the coating mixture until evenly coated, pressing the coating onto the chicken to adhere well.
7. Shake off any excess coating and carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer or pot.
8. Fry the chicken popcorn in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
9. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the chicken popcorn from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
10. Repeat the frying process with the remaining coated chicken pieces.
11. Once all the chicken popcorn is cooked, serve them hot as a delicious snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy the homemade KFC-style Chicken Popcorn! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a tasty treat for yourself.