Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Crispy Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken.

1. Step 1

   Start by cutting your chicken breast into bite-sized, 1-inch pieces and place them in a medium bowl.

2. Step 2

   In a separate small bowl, combine salt, paprika, black pepper, ground mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, and sage.

3. Step 3

   Set aside 1 teaspoon of this flavorful seasoning blend for later use.

4. Step 4

   Now, sprinkle the remaining seasoning mixture generously over the chicken pieces, tossing them gently to ensure every piece is well-coated with those delicious spices.

5. Step 5

   Next, grab a large resealable plastic bag and add the cornstarch along with the reserved teaspoon of seasoning.

6. Step 6

   Give it a good shake to mix everything together.

7. Step 7

   Now, add the seasoned chicken to the bag, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously until each piece is evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.

8. Step 8

   To ensure the best texture, transfer the chicken to a fine mesh strainer and shake off any excess cornstarch.

9. Step 9

   Let the chicken rest for about 5 to 10 minutes; this allows the cornstarch to absorb and helps create that perfect crispy exterior.

10. Step 10

    While the chicken is resting, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

11. Step 11

    Once preheated, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.

12. Step 12

    If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you might need to cook in batches.

13. Step 13

    A quick mist of cooking spray over the chicken will help it crisp up beautifully.

14. Step 14

    Cook the chicken for 4 minutes, then give the basket a gentle shake and mist the chicken again with cooking spray to promote even cooking.

15. Step 15

    Continue cooking for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.

16. Step 16

    To be sure, use an instant-read thermometer; it should read at least 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the center of a piece.

17. Step 17

    And there you have it! Perfectly crispy, seasoned chicken that’s ready to be enjoyed.

18. Step 18

    Whether you’re serving it up in a salad, on a sandwich, or just on its own, this dish is sure to impress.

19. Step 19

    Happy cooking!.