- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to create the coating mixture.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Take each marinated chicken piece and coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture. Ensure an even coating on all sides.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C).
- Fry the Chicken Popcorn:
- Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Rest:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken popcorn from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Allow them to rest for a few minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the KFC-style chicken popcorn hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
Enjoy the crispy and flavorful KFC-style chicken popcorn as a snack, appetizer, or part of a delicious meal. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and enjoy the iconic taste of KFC in the comfort of your home.