Instant Chicken Poppers with Creamy Dip
Description:
These chicken poppers are quick, crispy, and delicious bite-sized snacks that are perfect for parties, kids’ lunches, or a speedy weeknight treat. Paired with a creamy garlic mayo dip, they’re irresistible and super easy to make with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Poppers:
500g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp yogurt (for marination)
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornflour
1 egg
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
Oil for deep frying (or air frying alternative)
For the Dip:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 clove garlic (minced or paste)
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, lemon juice, and yogurt.
Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour for better flavor).
Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg.
Mix all-purpose flour and cornflour in another bowl.
Optional: Prepare breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
Step 3: Coat and Fry
Dip each chicken piece in flour mixture, then egg, and coat with breadcrumbs (if using).
Heat oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F).
Fry the chicken poppers in batches until golden brown (about 4–5 minutes).
For air frying: Spray with oil and cook at 200°C (390°F) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Step 4: Make the Dip
Mix mayonnaise, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Garnish with herbs and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – 1/4 of recipe):
Component Amount
Calories ~350 kcal
Protein 28g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 4g
Sodium ~550mg
Fiber 1g
Dip adds approx. 80–100 kcal per serving.
Q&A:
Q1: Can I make chicken poppers ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate and coat them, then refrigerate for up to 1 day or freeze for up to 1 month. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful.
Q3: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use an air fryer, skip the breadcrumbs, and opt for a Greek yogurt-based dip.
Q4: What sauces go well with chicken poppers?
A: Garlic mayo, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or ranch are great options.
Q5: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.