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Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken Bites

Why you'll love this recipe

  • These bite-sized nuggets are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack, offering a high-protein alternative to fast food.
  • Using tapioca starch gives the chicken a unique, "pearl-like" crunch that is signature to authentic Taiwanese street food.
  • The addition of fresh basil in the final minutes adds a sophisticated, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.

Key Ingredients

  • Tapioca Starch: Provides a distinct, light, and slightly chewy crunch that doesn't get soggy as quickly as wheat flour.
  • White Pepper: Offers a floral, sharp heat that is more traditional in Asian poultry dishes than black pepper.
  • Fresh Basil: Essential for the classic popcorn chicken aroma; it fries quickly and becomes a crispy, flavorful garnish.

✅Quick Tips: Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; leaving space between the pieces ensures the air can circulate for a 360-degree crunch.

Key Steps

  • #1: Marinate the cubed thighs overnight to ensure every small bite is packed with garlic and soy flavor.
  • #2: Coat the chicken in egg and starch just before cooking to prevent the starch from becoming a gummy paste.
  • #3: Air fry at 425F for 15 minutes, flipping to ensure the bottom gets as crispy as the top and do another 15 mins.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cooking Method:
Courses:
Servings: 2
Description

Bite-sized chicken thighs are coated in a spiced tapioca starch and air-fried until extra crispy. This recipe is a family favorite for quick snacks or fun appetizers.

Ingredients:
  • 1 lb chicken thigh (cubed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ cup tapioca starch
  • 1 egg
  • A handful of basil leaves
    • Seasoning:
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp white pepper powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
Instructions
  1. 1
    Season the chicken thigh and let it marinate overnight.
  2. 2
    When ready to air fry, add the egg into the chicken thigh, and coat it with tapioca starch.
  3. 3
    Before going into the air fryer, drizzle olive oil over.
  4. 4
    Air fry at 425F for 15 minutes, flip and do another 15 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, pop in basil leaves..
Keywords: Air Fryer, Crispy, Popcorn Chicken, 15-min
Read it online: https://ailalinrecipes.com/recipe/air-fryer-popcorn-chicken-with-basil/
Aila Lin
Recipe Creator and Food Blogger

Hi, I'm Aila, an avid foodie who enjoy eating, cooking and sharing food. I'm currently based in Seattle, WA, and loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family cooking them their favorite food!