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Sweet Chili Popcorn Chicken Bites with Ranch Dip

Crispy, golden popcorn chicken bites tossed in a sweet chili glaze and served with a cool, creamy ranch dip. A crowd-pleasing appetizer or fun main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for dipping)
  • Chopped green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a bowl with buttermilk. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge).
  2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
  4. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  5. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
  6. In a small saucepan, heat sweet chili sauce and honey (if using) over low heat until warmed through.
  7. Toss fried chicken bites in the sweet chili sauce until well coated.
  8. Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a dash of sriracha to the sweet chili sauce.
  • You can bake or air fry the chicken for a lighter option.
  • These are great for parties, game day, or a fun family meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn chicken, sweet chili, ranch dip, appetizer, fried chicken bites, party food