How Long to Air Fry Popcorn Chicken for the Perfect Crisp

If you’re a fan of popcorn chicken, then you know that the perfect crispiness is what truly sets it apart. And if you’re looking to achieve that delightful crunch without the excessive oil of deep frying, then air frying is your best friend. Wondering how long you should air fry your popcorn chicken to achieve that perfect crisp? Read on to find out.

First, it’s important to note that there are several factors that can affect the cooking time of popcorn chicken in an air fryer. These factors include the brand and model of your air fryer, the size and thickness of the chicken, and whether the chicken is fresh or frozen. However, as a general guideline, you can follow these instructions to achieve the perfect crispy popcorn chicken in your air fryer.

For fresh, uncooked popcorn chicken, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your popcorn chicken by coating it in a seasoned flour mixture or your preferred breadcrumb coating. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each piece. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, giving it that desirable crunch.

Now, for the cooking time. Generally, you should air fry fresh, uncooked popcorn chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking process. This ensures that both sides of the chicken are evenly cooked and crispy. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the cooking time accordingly. If your chicken is browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature slightly or decrease the cooking time. On the other hand, if the chicken is not crispy enough, you can increase the temperature or extend the cooking time by a few minutes until you achieve the desired crispiness.

When it comes to frozen popcorn chicken, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Preheat your air fryer to the same temperature of 400°F (200°C). Place the frozen chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, just like with fresh chicken. However, the cooking time for frozen popcorn chicken will be longer, typically around 15-20 minutes. Again, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking process is crucial to ensure even and crispy results.

Remember, every air fryer is different, so it’s always advisable to refer to the specific instructions and guidelines provided by the manufacturer. And don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the time and temperature settings to find the perfect balance for your preferred level of crispiness.

So, the next time you’re craving popcorn chicken, don’t hesitate to break out your air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying. With these general guidelines in mind, you’ll be able to air fry your popcorn chicken to perfection, achieving that irresistible crunch that makes it so satisfying to bite into. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful popcorn chicken without the guilt!