Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers Recipe

Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy coating and even cooking.

Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that provide a light and crispy texture.

Parmesan cheese: Grated to add a rich, savory flavor to the coating.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the coating mixture.

Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a bit of color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Eggs: Beaten to help the coating adhere to the chicken pieces.

To ensure your chicken poppers come out extra crispy, try toasting the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown before mixing them with the parmesan cheese and spices. This step adds an additional layer of crunch and flavor to the final dish.

• Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is a lean protein similar to chicken breast and will provide a similar texture and flavor.

• Panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a similar crunch and can be a gluten-free alternative.

• Grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile, making it a good substitute.

• Garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor that can enhance the dish.

• Paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a bit of heat and a similar depth of flavor to the dish.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a bit of umami flavor.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor, which can still complement the dish.

• Eggs - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and add a slight tanginess.

• Cooling Down: Allow the chicken poppers to cool completely at room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Refrigeration:

  1. Place the cooled chicken poppers in an airtight container.
  2. Layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
  3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing:

  1. Arrange the cooled chicken poppers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Freeze for 1-2 hours until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
  3. Transfer the frozen poppers to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  4. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• Reheating:

  1. For refrigerated chicken poppers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the poppers on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
  3. For frozen poppers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and crispy.

• Microwave Option (not recommended for best texture):

  1. Place chicken poppers on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  3. Note: This method may result in a less crispy texture.

• Serving Suggestions:

  1. Pair with a side of vegetable sticks like carrot and celery.
  2. Serve with dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.

• Pro Tip: To maintain maximum crispiness, avoid covering the chicken poppers with foil or plastic wrap directly. Instead, use a vented container or leave a small gap for air circulation.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Parmesan Panko Chicken Poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the panko breadcrumbs.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method is quick and keeps the poppers crispy.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the chicken poppers in the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through. This method adds a bit of extra crispiness to the panko coating.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken poppers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may make the panko coating less crispy, but it's the quickest option.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken poppers on the toaster oven tray and heat for 10-12 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy. This method is great for small batches and maintains the crunchiness of the panko breadcrumbs.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken poppers at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C) until they are golden and cooked through.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for placing the coated chicken pieces to ensure even baking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Small bowl: Ideal for beating the eggs which will be used to dip the chicken pieces.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for cutting the chicken.

• Tongs: Useful for dipping the chicken pieces into the beaten eggs and then into the panko mixture without making a mess.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Parchment paper: Optional, but can be used to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup and to prevent the chicken poppers from sticking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and measure out the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and spices the night before.

Use a baking rack: Place the chicken pieces on a baking rack set over a baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Double the batch: Make extra chicken poppers and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to minimize cleanup time.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven before you begin prepping to save time.