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Spicy Publix Air Fryer Buffalo-Style Popcorn Chicken
Introduction
Transform Publix Buffalo-Style Popcorn Chicken into a spicy, mouth-watering treat with the air fryer, bringing the heat and flavor of buffalo wings to convenient, bite-sized pieces. This recipe ensures that each piece of popcorn chicken is coated in a crispy exterior with a tender, juicy interior, all enhanced by the bold buffalo-style seasoning.
Perfect for game day, a quick snack, or as a protein-packed addition to salads or wraps, this buffalo-style popcorn chicken is easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients List
1 package of Publix Buffalo-Style Popcorn Chicken
Blue cheese or ranch dressing, for dipping
Celery sticks, for serving
Carrot sticks, for serving
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3-5 minutes, setting the stage for crispy perfection.
Cook the Popcorn Chicken: Arrange the buffalo-style popcorn chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces don't touch for even cooking. Depending on the air fryer's capacity, cooking in batches may be necessary. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and heated through.
Serve: Plate the spicy buffalo-style popcorn chicken with blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Accompany with celery and carrot sticks to complete the classic buffalo wing experience.
Pro Tips and Suggestions
For an extra kick, drizzle the cooked popcorn chicken with additional buffalo sauce before serving.
This popcorn chicken makes a great topping for a hearty salad, adding protein and spice, or stuffed into wraps with lettuce, cheese, and your choice of dressing for a flavorful lunch.
Keep an eye on the chicken during the final minutes of cooking to ensure it reaches your desired level of crispiness without overcooking.
Interesting Alterations You May Want to Try
Toss the cooked popcorn chicken in a mixture of buffalo sauce and honey for a sweet and spicy glaze.
Serve the popcorn chicken in a slider bun with coleslaw and pickles for a mini buffalo chicken sandwich.
For a milder version, mix buffalo sauce with a bit of melted butter before tossing with the cooked chicken to reduce the heat.
Key Takeaways and Calories
Spicy Buffalo-Style Popcorn Chicken cooked in the air fryer offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo wings in a less messy, bite-sized form.
Pairing with blue cheese or ranch dressing and vegetable sticks brings a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, making for a balanced snack or meal.
A serving of this buffalo-style popcorn chicken, excluding dipping sauces and sides, is approximately 300-350 calories, making it a satisfying yet indulgent choice.
Conclusion
The Spicy Buffalo-Style Popcorn Chicken recipe is a testament to the versatility and convenience of air frying, allowing you to quickly whip up a snack or meal that packs a flavorful punch.
Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a satisfying snack, or need a spicy addition to your meals, this buffalo-style popcorn chicken is sure to delight with its bold flavors and crispy texture. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it's a must-try for fans of all things spicy and savory.