Want crispy, golden popcorn chicken without the hassle? Your air fryer is about to become your new best friend. This 12-minute recipe transforms frozen popcorn chicken into perfectly cooked, crunchy bites that’ll satisfy any snack craving.
With just 1 calorie per serving and virtually no prep work, it’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or quick appetizers. Skip the deep fryer and still achieve that irresistible crunch everyone loves.
Ingredient Essentials
- Frozen Popcorn Chicken: 1 package of Tyson’s brand, ensures crispy and convenient cooking
Quick & Easy Instructions
- Preparation: Unpack your frozen popcorn chicken and get your air fryer ready
- Arrangement: Carefully arrange chicken pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket to ensure even cooking (work in batches if needed)
- Air Frying: Set temperature to 400°F/200°C and cook for 10-12 minutes for perfect crispiness
- Mid-Cook Flip: Halfway through cooking, flip the pieces for even golden-brown results
- Temperature Check: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C for food safety
- Serving: Dish up immediately while hot and crispy, paired with your preferred dipping sauce
Serving Suggestions
Make your popcorn chicken extra fun with some tasty dipping options! Try honey mustard for a sweet-tangy kick, BBQ sauce for a smoky touch, or ranch dressing for that classic flavor. Want to turn this into a meal? Serve it with crispy french fries or a fresh side salad. Kids love these bite-sized pieces in their lunch boxes (once cooled) or as part of a weekend movie night spread!
Helpful Tips
For the crispiest popcorn chicken, don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket – give those little nuggets some room to get golden brown! A single layer works best. If your chicken pieces are stuck together when frozen, gently separate them before cooking. Every air fryer heats a bit differently, so check your first batch at 8 minutes to see how they’re doing. You’ll know they’re perfect when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside!
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready for round two, just heat them in your air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. Try to avoid using the microwave – it can make them soggy. Your chicken should always be piping hot before eating!
Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 package Tyson’s Popcorn Chicken frozen
Instructions
- Remove the popcorn chicken from the packaging.
- Place the frozen chicken in a single layer of the air fryer basket. Cook in multiple batches if needed.
- Air fry at 400°F/200°C for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.