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chicken fire poppers copycat recipe

Chicken Fire Poppers

When it’s time to throw a party, appetizers make or break the occasion. They set the mood and keep guests happy while they wait for the main event.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders cut into 1–2 inch chunks
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 1/2 cups crispy panko breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil for deep frying
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for umami depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup pure honey
  • 1/3 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by cutting your chicken breast tenders into bite-sized chunks. This makes them easy to eat and ensures they cook evenly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the coating stick.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

  • Get two bowls ready. In the first bowl, whisk the eggs, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture will infuse wonderful flavors into your chicken. In the second bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. Prepare a clean surface for easy assembly.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

  • Take each piece of chicken, dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat it well. Next, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until it's fully covered. Set aside each piece on a plate. This breading process adds texture and crunch to the final product.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

  • In a large pot, heat about 1 inch of canola oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil. If it bubbles and sizzles, you’re good to go.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

  • Carefully lower the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches until they are golden brown and crispy—about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove the poppers, allowing excess oil to drain.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, honey, and Frank’s RedHot sauce. Stir until the sugars dissolve and the sauce thickens slightly. This sweet and spicy sauce will elevate the poppers to another level.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once the chicken poppers are done, toss them in the sauce until fully coated. Serve them hot and enjoy the flavors!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices make all the difference in flavor.
  • Panko is the Key: Do not substitute regular breadcrumbs; panko gives that extra crunch.
  • Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. Too low and the chicken soaks up oil; too high and it burns.
  • Batch Frying: Never overcrowd the pot; this lowers the temperature and results in soggy poppers.
  • Cooling Rack: Use a cooling rack for the fried poppers to keep their crispiness.

Nutrition

Calories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 5gFat: 3g
Keyword Chicken Fire Poppers
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