Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Taiwan right to your kitchen. This recipe features super crispy, bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with aromatic Chinese five spice and topped with crispy fried basil. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a main dish, a side, or a tasty appetizer at your next gathering, this quick and easy Taiwanese popcorn chicken can be ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Fast Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The combination of potato starch and spices creates an irresistible crunch.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as an appetizer, side dish, or main course for any meal or party.
• Easy to Customize: Substitute different herbs or spices according to your taste preferences.
• Air Fryer Option Available: A healthier alternative if you prefer less oil without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking this recipe a breeze. Here’s what you need to prepare your Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Plate or baking sheet
• Slotted spoon
• Digital instant read thermometer (optional)
• Large pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Large bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly with all the flavors.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the chicken from hot oil without excess grease.
• Digital instant read thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the right temperature for frying, ensuring perfectly crispy chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.25 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
• 1 1/4 cup potato starch (or tapioca starch/cornstarch)
• 2 cups vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 1 egg white
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 2 tsp Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice vinegar or chicken broth for non-alcoholic version)
• 2 tsp white granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Chinese five spice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper (or black pepper)

For the Fried Basil

• 1/4 cup Thai basil (washed and pat dried)

How to Make Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice chicken into 1.5-inch wide bite-sized pieces, about 6 pieces per thigh.
2. Transfer chicken to a large bowl and marinate with marinade ingredients as listed above for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix

1. In a separate small bowl, combine the spice mix ingredients as listed above and set aside.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

1. Spread potato starch on a large plate or baking sheet.
2. With clean wet hands, generously dredge marinated chicken into the starch massaging until beads of starch form on the outside.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan on medium heat to 350 F using a digital instant read thermometer.
2. Alternatively, insert a wooden utensil into the hot oil; look for rapid bubbles.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

1. Deep fry chicken in small batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
2. Avoid overcrowding; this ensures each piece remains crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Season

1. Remove fried chicken with a slotted spoon and transfer to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil.
2. Quickly season hot chicken with the spice mix while still warm.

Step 7: Fry the Basil

1. With fresh basil in one hand and a pan lid in the other, drop basil into hot oil.
2. Quickly cover to shield from oil splash back; deep fry for 10-15 seconds until crispy.

Step 8: Serve

Remove fried basil with a slotted spoon and sprinkle over chicken. Enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, snack, or appetizer, here are some delightful suggestions on how to present this crispy treat.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with dipping sauces like sweet chili or garlic soy sauce for a burst of flavor.
• Pair with fresh cucumber slices to balance the richness of the chicken.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create wraps, adding fresh herbs and veggies for extra crunch.
• Drizzle with a tangy sauce for added moisture and taste.

Over Rice

• Place the popcorn chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.
• Add some stir-fried vegetables on the side for a nutritious touch.

As Party Snacks

• Serve in small cups or skewers for easy handling at parties.
• Offer different sauces for guests to choose from, enhancing their tasting experience.

With Salads

• Toss the popcorn chicken into a mixed green salad topped with sesame dressing for a light meal.
• Add fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

To achieve the ultimate crispy texture and flavor in your Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for skinless boneless chicken thighs ensures moistness and tenderness in every bite.
• Marinate longer: Allow the chicken to marinate beyond 30 minutes if possible. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use sufficient oil: Ensure there is enough oil in your pan for deep frying. This promotes even cooking and crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding: Fry in small batches to maintain consistent heat and prevent soggy pieces.
• Season immediately: Sprinkle your spice mix on hot chicken right after frying for maximum flavor absorption.
• Air fry option: For a healthier version, try air frying instead of deep frying. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Pairing your Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken with complementary sides enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli – A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and crunch.
2. Coconut Rice – The subtle sweetness of coconut rice balances the savory flavors of the chicken beautifully.
3. Pickled Vegetables – Provide a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
4. Coleslaw – A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and creaminess.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet counterpart to the savory chicken.
6. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame beans are a healthy snack that complements the main dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and result in a more delicious dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not marinating long enough: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes can lead to bland flavors. Always allow enough time for the marinade to penetrate the meat.

• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken instead of crispy bites. Fry in small batches for optimal results.

• Using the wrong oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough (around 350°F), your chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer or test with a wooden utensil for bubbles.

• Skipping the spice mix: The seasoning blend is essential for authentic flavor. Don’t skip it—mix and apply generously to ensure each piece is well-seasoned.

• Ignoring fresh basil frying tips: Dropping basil into hot oil without proper technique can cause splattering. Always cover with a lid quickly after adding basil to prevent burns.

• Not using potato starch: Substituting potato starch with other flours may not achieve the desired crispiness. Stick with potato or tapioca starch for that signature crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking tray and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and add chicken pieces, stirring occasionally until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken:

How do I make Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken without deep frying?

You can air fry the marinated chicken as an alternative. Preheat your air fryer and cook at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

What can I substitute for Thai basil?

If you can’t find Thai basil, you can use Holy Basil or Italian Basil as alternatives, keeping in mind they may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, but you can also try turkey or beef as alternative proteins.

What should I serve with Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with rice or noodles, along with fresh vegetables or a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into your spice mix or serving with a spicy dipping sauce alongside it.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day before cooking it.

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. Enjoy making this delightful dish!