I usually need a snack around midday, and these crispy chicken poppers have quickly become one of my favorites. They’re crispy on the outside, tender inside, and full of savory flavor. They are perfect for family get-togethers, girls’ nights, or a movie night at home. I usually make them when I want something quick and easy.

These poppers are good on their own, but I like serving them with ranch, ketchup, or a store-bought dipping sauce.
How to Make Cripsy Chicken Poppers
INGREDIENTS
- 1.5 lb boneless chicken breast, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 3 cups panko
- 1½ tsp paprika powder
- 1½ cups buttermilk
- 1½ cup plain flour
- Oil, for frying
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1½ tsp coriander powder
- 1½ tsp granulated garlic powder
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, granulated garlic, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well until evenly combined. The flour mixture gives the chicken a nice crispy coating.
2. Add the diced chicken breast to the flour mixture and toss until evenly coated. Use your hands to gently press the coating onto the chicken so it sticks.

3. Dip each coated chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating it evenly. The buttermilk keeps the chicken juicy and helps the breadcrumbs stick.

4. Next, coat each piece in breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs give the poppers a golden, crunchy coating.

5. Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it’s hot enough for frying.
6. Add 4–5 chicken pieces to the hot oil one at a time. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 7–8 minutes. Turn them occasionally so they brown evenly. Remove them once they turn golden and crisp.

7. Using a slotted spoon or spatula, transfer the cooked poppers on a paper towel-lined tray to drain the excess oil.

You can make them ahead of time, but they’re best served fresh while they’re crisp.
They’re great for parties, but I also make them when I want an easy snack at home. You can also switch up the herbs, spices, or dipping sauces to suit your taste.

Crispy Chicken Poppers
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, granulated garlic, coriander powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the diced chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
- Dip the coated chicken pieces into the buttermilk, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Roll each piece in breadcrumbs until completely coated for a crispy, golden crust.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test it with a small piece of bread—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
- Fry 4–5 chicken pieces at a time for 7–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the poppers with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil and keep them crispy.