Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, resulting in a lower-fat dish without compromising on flavor.​
• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, these chicken bites are ready in under 30 minutes.​
• Versatile: Customize the seasoning to your preference, making them as mild or spicy as you like.​
• Perfect for Dipping: Pair with your favorite sauces, such as ranch, buffalo, or honey mustard, for an enhanced flavor experience.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes​
• 2 teaspoons olive oil​
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce​
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning​
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder​
• ¼ teaspoon salt​
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper​
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour​
• Cooking spray​
• ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese​
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley​

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.​

2. Prepare for Coating: Place the flour in a resealable plastic bag. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (185°C) for 10 minutes.​

3. Coat the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the bag with flour. Seal and shake to coat evenly.​

4. Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly dip each floured chicken piece into a small bowl of water, letting excess drip off, then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.​

5. Cooking Process: Air fry at 370°F (185°C) for 8 minutes. Using tongs, flip the pieces over, spray the tops again with cooking spray, and cook for an additional 8 minutes.

6. Add Parmesan and Parsley: Sprinkle the cooked chicken bites with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauces.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​
• Prep time: 10 minutes​
• Cook time: 16 minutes​
• Total time: 26 minutes​

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy flavor.​
• Cheese Lovers: Incorporate shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the coating mixture for an extra cheesy bite.​
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu cubes for a plant-based alternative.​
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.​

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for optimal texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.​

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spraying the basket with cooking spray and ensuring the chicken pieces are not overcrowded will help prevent sticking.​

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used; they may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.​

Are these chicken bites suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.​

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken bites?

Ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli are excellent choices.​

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Bites offer a delightful combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior, all achieved with less oil than traditional frying methods. With customizable flavors and easy preparation, they make for a perfect snack, appetizer, or main course that the whole family will enjoy.

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