Ready for the ultimate crunchy, crave-worthy snack or dinner that checks every box for fun, flavor, and family appeal? Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets are bite-sized pieces of juicy chicken, coated in crispy, golden crushed potato chips that add an irresistible salty crunch. They’re so good, you’ll find yourself making extra “just in case.” Simple to prepare, perfect for dunking, and guaranteed to please a crowd, this dish is a new classic you’ll want to make again and again.

Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for these Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets can be found at your local store, and each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create the best balance of flavor and texture. Don’t skip out—each one brings something special to the party!

Chicken breast: Lean, boneless pieces are perfect for juicy and tender nuggets that cook quickly.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and potato chip coating.
Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken for maximum juiciness.
Garlic powder: Gives your nuggets a savory depth and that “something special” in every bite.
Paprika: Adds color and a gentle warmth to the flavor profile without overpowering the crunch.
All-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick while adding a bit of structure to the nuggets.
Eggs: These help the crushed chips adhere and provide a golden finish when baked or fried.
Potato chips: The star ingredient—choose your favorite flavor for a custom twist; original, barbecue, or sour cream & onion all work beautifully!
Cooking oil or spray: Needed for greasing your baking sheet or for frying, ensuring the perfect crispy crust.

How to Make Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—think small enough for one perfect mouthful, but not so tiny they’ll dry out. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; this ensures every piece is flavorful, not just the outside. Tossing the pieces into a bowl of buttermilk at this stage both marinates and tenderizes them, so you get extra-juicy results every time.

Step 2: Crush the Potato Chips

The magic of Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets comes from their stellar, shattering coating. Place your potato chips in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or your hands to crush them into small, even bits—aim for something between panko crumbs and sand. Too fine, and you’ll lose that signature crunch; too big, and they won’t stick as well.

Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station

Arrange three shallow bowls or plates: one for flour, one with beaten eggs, and one for the crushed chips. Working in batches, take the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk, dredge them in flour, dip them in egg, and finally roll them through the potato chip crumbs, pressing gently so that every side is completely covered.

Step 4: Bake or Fry the Nuggets

For healthier Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets, line a baking sheet with parchment and spray lightly with oil. Arrange nuggets in a single layer and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and cooked through. If you’re in the mood for extra indulgence, heat about an inch of oil in a skillet and fry the nuggets in small batches, turning until crisp and brown all over—usually 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Transfer the cooked nuggets to a cooling rack (or a plate lined with paper towels if frying) to drain and let them crisp up even more. Allow them to cool for just a few minutes before serving. That’s when the coating is at its crunchiest and the insides are still irresistibly juicy!

How to Serve Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets

Garnishes

Cilantro, parsley, or chives can be scattered over the top for a pop of color and freshness. For a zesty touch, squeeze a lemon or lime wedge right before serving—this brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the crunchy coating.

Side Dishes

Pair your Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad for balance. Dipping sauces are a must: think honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, ketchup, or ranch—everyone loves building their own favorite combo!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these nuggets in mini baskets lined with parchment, or skewer them with toothpicks for easy party bites. For game nights or picnics, pack them in a thermal container to keep them warm and crispy. Or lay them atop a platter, surrounded by colorful veggie sticks and sauces for a stunning centerpiece that’s easy to grab and share.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Enjoyed too many Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets to finish in one sitting? Let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer, separated by parchment if needed, to keep the coating as crisp as possible.

Freezing

These nuggets are perfect for batch cooking! Lay the cooked and cooled nuggets on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to two months. This way, you can grab a few anytime you need a quick and satisfying snack or meal.

Reheating

To maintain maximum crunch, reheat Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave. Arrange on a tray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes (or until hot and crispy), flipping halfway through. An air fryer works even faster, restoring that shattering bite you love.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and have a richer flavor, so feel free to swap them in. Just trim any excess fat and follow the same steps—you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the size of your nuggets.

What’s the best type of potato chip for the crust?

Classic salted potato chips are the go-to for a familiar flavor and great crunch, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Barbecue, sour cream and onion, cheddar, or even spicy chips all work wonderfully for unique twists on the original.

Can these nuggets be made gluten-free?

Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free flour and make sure your potato chips are gluten-free (many brands are, but always check labels). You’ll have a delicious batch of gluten-free Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets without sacrificing texture or taste.

Is it possible to make them in an air fryer?

Definitely. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in your preheated air fryer, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway. The air fryer delivers excellent crispiness with less oil—perfect for guilt-free snacking.

What can I do if my coating isn’t sticking well?

If you find that the potato chip crumbs aren’t sticking to your chicken, make sure you’re dredging in flour first, then egg, before rolling in chips. Press the chips onto the chicken firmly, and avoid over-handling after coating. Also, pat the chicken pieces dry before marinating for even better adhesion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking something easy, playful, and utterly satisfying, Potato Chip Crusted Popcorn Chicken Nuggets are the answer. They’re sure to become an instant favorite for kids and adults alike—so go ahead, give them a try, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”