Air Fryer Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Air Fryer Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a delicious, lighter version of a popular Taiwanese street snack. Known for its crispy texture and savory, aromatic flavor, this dish is made with marinated bite-sized chicken pieces coated in sweet potato flour and air-fried to perfection. Finished with a sprinkle of seasoning and crispy Thai basil, it brings authentic Taiwanese flavors straight to your kitchen—without deep frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than traditional deep-fried versions, thanks to air frying
• Bursting with bold, authentic Taiwanese flavors
• Easy and quick to prepare, making it great for weeknights
• Perfectly crispy and juicy with minimal oil
• Great as a snack, appetizer, or main dish

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Garlic, minced
• Shaoxing wine
• Soy sauce
• Chicken bouillon powder
• Salt
• White pepper
• Garlic powder
• Five-spice powder
• Sugar
• Vegetable oil
• Egg
• Sweet potato flour
• Thai basil leaves

Seasoning Blend

• Salt
• White pepper
• Sugar
• Five-spice powder
• Paprika

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with garlic, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, bouillon powder, salt, white pepper, garlic powder, five-spice powder, sugar, vegetable oil, and egg. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in sweet potato flour until well coated. Shake off excess.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Lightly oil the air fryer basket and preheat to 360°F.
4. First Cook: Arrange chicken in a single layer. Air fry at 360°F for 10 minutes.
5. Second Cook: Flip the chicken, brush with a little oil, and increase the temperature to 400°F. Cook for another 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. Crisp the Basil: Toss Thai basil leaves with a touch of oil. Air fry at 350°F for 2 minutes or until crispy.
7. Season and Serve: Toss the cooked chicken in the seasoning blend. Garnish with crispy basil leaves and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add chili powder or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
• Different Protein: Use boneless chicken breast or tofu for variation.
• Alternate Coatings: Use rice flour or cornstarch if sweet potato flour is unavailable.
• Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the chicken cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer at 400°F for 5–7 minutes for best crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but overnight marination enhances the flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs provide more flavor and remain juicier after cooking.

What can I use if I don’t have sweet potato flour?

Cornstarch or rice flour are good alternatives that also produce a crispy finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Do I need to use Thai basil?

Thai basil gives an authentic touch, but regular basil can be used in a pinch.

How can I make the chicken spicier?

Add some chili powder or crushed red pepper to the marinade or final seasoning.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

What dipping sauces go well with this?

Garlic mayo, sweet chili sauce, or a soy-vinegar dipping sauce complement the flavors well.

Can I freeze the cooked popcorn chicken?

Yes, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Reheat in an air fryer to retain crispiness.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?

Serve immediately or reheat in an air fryer to restore crispiness if needed.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a flavorful, crispy, and healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. It’s easy to prepare, packed with bold spices, and ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re making it for a quick meal, a party snack, or a dinner appetizer, this dish delivers taste and texture that everyone will enjoy.

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