If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and perfectly crispy without frying in a pan full of oil, you’re in for a treat with this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe. These delightful little bites combine tender ground chicken, a smoky BBQ kick, and a crunchy almond flour coating, all cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, need a game-day snack, or just want an irresistible appetizer, these poppers hit all the right notes with their juicy insides and smoky sweet tang. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll be your go-to for every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that balance taste, texture, and a pop of color. Every ingredient plays a role—ground chicken forms the moist, hearty base, spices bring warmth and depth, and almond flour gives just the right crunch without the heaviness of traditional breadcrumbs.
- 2 lbs ground chicken or ground turkey: The lean protein providing a tender and juicy foundation for the poppers.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as the perfect binder to keep everything together without drying out.
- 1/3 cup almond flour: Adds a light nutty flavor and helps firm up the mixture inside.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses each bite with warm, savory notes.
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced: Offers subtle sweetness and crunchy texture for contrast.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Brings a mild heat to balance the sweetness.
- 2 tbsp diced jalapenos (optional): For those who love a hint of spice and a zesty punch.
- Ranch dressing for dipping: Creamy contrast that cools the BBQ heat beautifully.
- 3/4 cup compliant BBQ sauce: The star of the show that adds smoky, tangy, and sweet layers of flavor.
- 3/4 cup almond flour: Used again to coat the poppers for that irresistible crispy crust.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Mixed with almond flour to season the outer coating evenly.
- 1/4 tsp pepper: Lightly spicy touch for the crust.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Complements the seasoning of the coating and ties it all together.
How to Make Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Chicken Base
Start by combining ground chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, diced onions, and jalapenos if you’re using these spicy little gems. Mix everything thoroughly in a large bowl until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is crucial to ensure every popper bursts with consistent flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Bind the Mixture
Next, add the beaten egg and the first portion of almond flour (1/3 cup) into your spiced chicken mixture. Stir until the mixture holds together but remains tender—this will make rolling your poppers much easier and keep them juicy after cooking.
Step 3: Shape the Poppers
Roll the mixture into small balls about 1.5 inches in diameter—think golf ball size. This is the perfect size to get a crisp outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup almond flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This coating will give your poppers the irresistible crunch that sets them apart from ordinary meatballs.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken Balls
Carefully roll each chicken ball in the almond flour mixture until it’s completely coated. This step ensures an even crispy crust that locks in all the juicy flavors inside, while also creating that golden exterior you’ll love.
Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then arrange the coated poppers in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Cook for 13 minutes, flipping halfway through, and spritzing with cooking spray again to achieve that perfectly crisp crust.
Step 7: Toss in BBQ Sauce
Once your poppers are golden and cooked through, transfer them to a bowl and toss with 3/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce until every bite is coated in that rich, smoky goodness. Serve immediately with ranch dressing for dipping and enjoy!
How to Serve Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate these poppers to the next level. Try topping them with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of freshness that cuts through the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly.
Side Dishes
These poppers pair wonderfully with crisp celery sticks and baby carrots to add crunch and a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, serve alongside a cool coleslaw or a simple garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Stack these poppers on skewers with alternating cherry tomatoes and bell pepper pieces for a colorful presentation. Or create a build-your-own slider bar with mini buns, lettuce, and extra BBQ sauce for a fun, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to keep their texture intact.
Freezing
If you want to keep these poppers for longer, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just reheat directly from frozen for convenience.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the frozen or refrigerated chicken poppers back in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on the outside. This method refreshes their texture far better than a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and can offer a slightly different flavor profile while still keeping the poppers moist and tender.
What if I don’t have almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with finely ground pork rinds, crushed pork chips, or even a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative, but almond flour provides that unique nutty taste and perfect crispness.
How spicy are these poppers with jalapenos?
The diced jalapenos add a mild heat that complements the BBQ sauce without overpowering the other flavors. You can adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.
Can I make these ahead of time and cook later?
Yes! You can roll and coat the poppers ahead, then refrigerate or freeze them before air frying. Just add a couple of extra minutes to cook time from frozen.
Is ranch dressing the best dip to serve with these?
Ranch dressing is a classic pairing because it cools down the BBQ’s tangy heat beautifully, but you can also serve these poppers with blue cheese dip, honey mustard, or even a smoky chipotle mayo for a twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something simply irresistible about the way this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe combines juicy meat, smoky BBQ sauce, and a crunchy almond flour crust into every bite. It’s a perfect snack or appetizer for any gathering or a cozy night in. You’ll love how quickly these poppers come together with ingredients you likely have on hand, and once they’re sizzling and ready, the first bite will have you hooked. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 18 poppers
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers are flavorful bite-sized snacks made with ground chicken, almond flour, and a blend of spices. Coated in a crispy almond flour crust and tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for game day or a tasty appetizer. Ready in under 40 minutes with an easy air frying method for a healthier, crispy finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground chicken or ground turkey
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp diced jalapenos (optional)
Coating Mix
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Additional
- 3/4 cup compliant BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, diced onions, and jalapenos if using. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Add Binding Ingredients: Add the beaten egg and 1/3 cup almond flour to the mixture, stirring until evenly combined. This helps bind the mixture ensuring the poppers hold together during cooking.
- Shape the Poppers: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, for even cooking and bite-sized portions.
- Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup almond flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create a flavorful coating for the poppers.
- Coat the Chicken Balls: Carefully roll each chicken ball into the almond flour mixture until well coated, ensuring a crispy crust after air frying.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken balls in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 13 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying with cooking spray to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Toss with BBQ Sauce and Serve: Remove cooked chicken poppers from the air fryer, toss in 3/4 cup BBQ sauce, and serve immediately with ranch dip and fresh vegetables like celery and carrots for a complete snack.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Use compliant BBQ sauce for a healthier version; check labels for added sugars or gluten.
- These poppers can be baked in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, if an air fryer is not available.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
