Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken recipe is perfect for anyone who craves a flavorful and crispy snack that’s easy to make at home. It offers authentic street food flavor with simple ingredients and a quick cooking process. The chicken stays juicy thanks to a well-balanced marinade, while the sweet potato flour delivers a signature crispy crust. Whether you’re serving it as a party snack, game day appetizer, or weeknight indulgence, this recipe hits all the right notes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken
1 lb chicken thigh, cut into 2″ pieces
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tbsp grated garlic
1/2 tsp white pepper
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 egg white
2 cups coarse sweet potato flour

Seasoning
1/2 tsp five spice powder
1/2 tsp white pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar

Miscellaneous
1 cup fresh basil leaves

directions

1. Cut chicken thighs into uniform 2-inch pieces.

2. In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, grated ginger, grated garlic, white pepper, rice vinegar, and egg white. Mix thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

3. In a separate bowl, mix together the five spice powder, white pepper, salt, and sugar. Set aside for seasoning after frying.

4. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in coarse sweet potato flour, pressing to coat evenly.

5. Heat neutral oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

6. During the last 30 seconds of frying each batch, add fresh basil leaves to the oil and fry until crisp.

7. Remove the chicken and basil from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain.

8. While still hot, sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili powder or ground Sichuan peppercorns to the seasoning blend for a kick of heat.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the sweet potato flour is certified gluten-free.

• Air Fryer Method: Coat the chicken and air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly with oil for crispiness.

• Chicken Breast Substitute: You can use boneless chicken breast, but the texture may be slightly drier.

• Herb Twist: Swap basil for Thai basil or try adding curry leaves for a different aromatic profile.

• Sweet Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the seasoning mix for a subtle sweet-spicy depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover popcorn chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make the coating soggy. The basil may not retain its crisp texture after refrigeration, so consider frying fresh basil leaves again before serving.

FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for popcorn chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred because they stay juicy and flavorful during frying.

Can I make Taiwanese popcorn chicken ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, but for best texture, fry it just before serving.

What is sweet potato flour and where can I find it?

Sweet potato flour is a coarse starch made from sweet potatoes, essential for the crispy texture. It’s available at Asian grocery stores or online.

Can I use cornstarch instead of sweet potato flour?

Cornstarch can be used, but it won’t deliver the same signature crunch that sweet potato flour provides.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, it’s more savory and aromatic. You can adjust the spice level by adding chili powder or pepper.

What oil should I use for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like peanut, canola, or avocado oil.

How do I know the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

No, fresh basil is crucial for the unique crispy texture and flavor in this dish.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Ensure the chicken is well coated with flour and let it rest briefly before frying to help the coating adhere.

What should I serve with Taiwanese popcorn chicken?

It’s perfect as a snack on its own, or served with rice, pickled vegetables, or a sweet chili dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken is a crispy, flavorful treat that brings the vibrant taste of Taiwanese street food straight to your kitchen. With its perfect blend of savory marinade, crispy coating, and aromatic basil, it’s no wonder this dish has become a global favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick snack or an impressive party platter, it’s sure to delight every time.