Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken
Making Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken is a quick and easy way to get dinner or a snack on the table in no time. This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, and it’s a great way to achieve popcorn chicken that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Popcorn chicken is one of my favorite quick and easy snacks. It’s perfect for satisfying my hunger without being too heavy, and I love that it’s so versatile. You can eat it plain, with dipping sauces, or even add it to salads for a little extra protein.
Air frying frozen popcorn chicken is a game-changer. Not only is it a quick and easy way to make popcorn chicken, but it also results in chicken that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. No more dry, overcooked chicken!
This recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time or need a quick snack. It only takes 15 minutes from start to finish, and it’s so easy to make!
🍿Ingredients and Tools
- Frozen Popcorn Chicken – You can find frozen popcorn chicken in the freezer section at most grocery stores. Popular brands include Tyson, Perdue, and Banquet.
- Air Fryer -I use a Ninja Foodi because I love its versatility, but you can use any air fryer you have.
- Tongs – You’ll need tongs to toss and remove the chicken from the air fryer to keep any burns at bay.
📖How To Make Frozen Popcorn Chicken In Air Fryer
1️⃣Preheat your air fryer: Turn your air fryer to 400F and preheat for 3-5 minutes. This is to ensure that your air fryer reaches the correct temperature so that your chicken cooks evenly.
2️⃣Place the frozen popcorn chicken in the air fryer: You’ll want to cook the chicken in a single layer so that it all gets evenly cooked. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
3️⃣Cook for 12-15 minutes: Toss halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and brand of your popcorn chicken.
4️⃣Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the air fryer using tongs and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
👩🏻🍳Chef’s Tips
- For extra crispy popcorn chicken: Spray the chicken with a little cooking oil before air frying to help it get extra crispy. You can also add a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Single-layer: Cook the chicken in a single layer so that it all gets evenly cooked. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Flip halfway: Toss or flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
🥒Serving Suggestions
We love these delicious dipping sauces with our popcorn chicken!
- Habanero Ranch
- Honey Mustard Dressing
- Homemade Ketchup
- BBQ Sauce
- Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Dill Pickle Dip
🧊Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the air fryer or Ninja Foodi before serving.
Freezing is not recommended as it will make the chicken tough.
❔FAQ
How long does it take to cook frozen popcorn chicken in the air fryer?
It takes 12-15 minutes to cook frozen popcorn chicken in the air fryer. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and brand of your popcorn chicken. This goes for all brands including Tyson and Perdue.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165F and is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken if you’re unsure.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can! This recipe also works well with frozen chicken nuggets or tenders. Just cook for the same amount of time as the popcorn chicken.
🍗More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
- Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
- Air Fryer Chicken Legs (Drumsticks)
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Pot Pie
- Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs
- Air Fryer Hibachi Chicken and Vegetables
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Patties
- Homemade Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
- Cranberry Orange Chicken Meatballs
Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken
Equipment
- Air Fryer or Ninja Foodi
Ingredients
- 12 oz Popcorn Chicken frozen
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer: Turn your air fryer to 400F and preheat for 3-5 minutes. This is to ensure that your air fryer reaches the correct temperature so that your chicken cooks evenly.
- Place the frozen popcorn chicken in the air fryer: You'll want to cook the chicken in a single layer so that it all gets evenly cooked. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes: Toss halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and brand of your popcorn chicken.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the air fryer using tongs and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!