Popcorn Chicken

Everyone loves popcorn chicken, and it's easy to see why. These bites are crunchy on the outside with a juicy, tender center. While popcorn chicken might have originated at KFC, it's easy to make at home. This recipe makes a great weeknight dinner. Or serve up a platter for game day. If you want to spice things up, toss the bites in buffalo sauce and butter for a bite-sized take on buffalo wings. They also make great leftovers. Warm them in an air fryer or oven with a coating of sweet and sticky orange chicken sauce, or toss them over a green salad. For breakfast, you could even serve popcorn chicken and waffles. Whatever you do, make plenty; these are guaranteed to go fast.

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 Tbsp. hot sauce
• 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for sprinkling
• 3 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 Tbsp. seasoned salt
• 1 tsp. mustard powder
• 1 tsp. ground black pepper
• 1 tsp. ground thyme (optional)
• Vegetable oil, for frying