Fritos Popcorn Chicken

Every time I make Fritos Popcorn Chicken, it takes me back to family gatherings where everyone is bustling about, laughter fills the air, and the smell of something delicious wafts through the house. This dish became a staple in our household, not just because it’s incredibly tasty, but because it brings everyone together. I can still hear my niece giggling after taking her first bite, declaring it the best chicken ever! The crispy exterior, thanks to the Original Fritos, makes each piece irresistible. You’ll want to make this dish for game nights, family dinners, or even just when you crave something comforting. The crunch of Fritos paired with tender chicken is simply a match made in heaven.

What’s In This Fritos Popcorn Chicken

When it comes to Fritos Popcorn Chicken, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crunch and flavor. From the protein-packed chicken to the crispy Fritos, every ingredient complements the others, ensuring that you get a delightful taste in every bite.

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, trimmed: The star of the dish, providing the protein and substance.
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess that helps tenderize the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps create a crispy coating.
• 1 egg white: Binds the coating to the chicken.
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, divided: A key ingredient for the coating.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: Enhances the crunch of the coating.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Helps the coating puff up during frying.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder: Adds a savory flavor.
• 2 teaspoons granulated garlic: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances flavors.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a bit more kick.
• ¼ cup water: Helps create the slurry.
• 1¼ cups finely crushed Original Fritos: Provides that signature crunch.
• 1½ quarts peanut or vegetable oil for frying: The medium that makes everything crispy and delicious.
• Favorite dipping sauce: Complements the dish perfectly.

The Process for Making Fritos Popcorn Chicken

Cooking Fritos Popcorn Chicken is an enjoyable process that goes by quickly. With each step, you can see the transformation of simple ingredients into a delicious dish. Follow along as I guide you through the process!

1. First, you’ll want to start by prepping your chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season it generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. This step is crucial for flavor.
2. Next, cut the seasoned chicken into ½-inch pieces and place them in a zipper-style plastic bag.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, cornstarch, and egg white to create a slurry. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the bag, seal it, and shake well to coat all pieces.
4. Place the bag in the fridge for about 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to marinate and absorb the flavors.
5. While the chicken is chilling, prepare your coating. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, baking powder, onion powder, granulated garlic, sugar, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
6. Next, add the water to the dry mixture. Using your fingers, rub the mixture together until it forms tiny bits with craggy edges, resembling damp sand.
7. Incorporate 1 cup of crushed Fritos into the dry mix, ensuring it’s well-mixed.
8. Now, remove the chicken from the fridge. Take half of the pieces and place them in the flour/Fritos mixture. Toss to coat thoroughly.
9. Spread the coated chicken pieces on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
10. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup of flour with the remaining ¼ cup of crushed Fritos. Whisk to combine.
11. Add the second half of the chicken to this mixture and repeat the coating process.
12. In a Dutch oven, heat 1-inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 400°F. Using a slotted spoon, carefully add half the coated chicken to the hot oil.
13. Fry the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. Be sure to stir it often to keep it cooking evenly.
14. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil.
15. Repeat the frying process with the remaining half of the chicken, ensuring the oil is at the right temperature.
16. Finally, let the chicken cool for 5 minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Expert Tips about Fritos Popcorn Chicken

When making Fritos Popcorn Chicken, there are a few expert tips that can help ensure you get the best results. Let me share some of my favorites with you!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated chicken for later use. Just make sure to separate the pieces to prevent sticking.
• Pairing: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy aioli for added flavor.
• Cooking Method: For a healthier twist, consider air frying the chicken instead of deep frying. You’ll still get a nice crunch!
• Serving Size: This recipe serves 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main dish, making it versatile for different occasions.
• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality chicken and fresh spices for the best flavor. It really makes a difference!

What Goes Well With This Fritos Popcorn Chicken

There are so many delightful options to serve alongside Fritos Popcorn Chicken. Here’s how you can elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp garden salad or coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Dipping Sauces: A range of sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy dip can enhance the overall experience.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Fries or Chips: For a more indulgent meal, serve with fries or extra Fritos for that crunch.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or even as a fun family dinner. It’s sure to please everyone!
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge but are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

FAQ

Conclusion

Fritos Popcorn Chicken is a delightful dish that brings joy and flavor to any occasion. Its crispy exterior and tender interior make it a favorite among family and friends. I encourage you to try making this dish at home—you won’t be disappointed. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a tasty treat to enjoy on your own.

Fritos Popcorn Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Fritos Popcorn Chicken features crispy, golden bites of chicken coated in crunchy Fritos. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts trimmed
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 egg white
• 1.25 cups all-purpose flour divided
• 0.25 cup cornstarch
• 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 0.25 cup water
• 1.25 cups finely crushed Original Fritos use food processor, if possible
• 1.5 quarts peanut or vegetable oil for frying
• 1 Favorite dipping sauce

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven
• Food Processor
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Pat the chicken dry, season with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Cut the chicken into ½-inch pieces, and place it in a zipper-style plastic bag.
2. In a small bowl, make a slurry by whisking together the cider vinegar, cornstarch, and egg white. Pour the slurry over the chicken, close the bag and shake it to coat all the chicken pieces. Place the chicken in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, baking powder, onion powder, granulated garlic, sugar, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add water and rub the flour/water mixture with your fingers until the mixture becomes tiny bits with craggy edges. It should hold together like damp sand when squeezed.
4. Add 1 cup of crushed Fritos and mix to incorporate.
5. Remove the chicken from the fridge and place half in the flour/Fritos mixture. Toss well to coat on all sides. Remove the chicken from the flour/Fritos mixture and spread out over a rimmed baking sheet.
6. Add the remaining ¼ cup of flour and ¼ cup of crushed Fritos to the remaining flour mixture and whisk to combine.
7. Add the remaining half of the chicken to the flour/Fritos mixture and repeat the coating process.
8. Add oil to a Dutch oven 1-inch deep, and heat over medium-high heat to 400°F.
9. Line another rimmed baking sheet with paper towels and set it on the counter next to the Dutch oven.
10. Use a slotted spoon (or spider skimmer) to carefully add half the chicken to the hot oil. Stir the chicken immediately and often to keep the chicken moving. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown. When chicken is cooked and beautiful, use the skimmer or slotted spoon to transfer it to the paper towel-lined baking sheet.
11. Heat oil to 400°F (again) and fry the remaining chicken. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
12. Let chicken cool for 5 minutes and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip: Serves 2 as an entree or 4 as an appetizer.
• Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot when you fry the chicken or the temperature of the oil will drop. Cook them in a couple of batches.
• Tip: Fritos Popcorn Chicken is best enjoyed as soon as it’s made. Reheating them can cause them to become less crispy.
• Tip: Cut the chicken into similar sized pieces so that it cooks evenly through.

Previous PostEasy Curried Chicken Salad

Next Post Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!