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air fryer crispy chicken bites 869468150

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Bites: Better Than Fried!

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Enjoy quick, easy Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Bites! Golden, savory protein snack pieces or a satisfying meal. Perfectly crisp & delicious.
Prep Time 18 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Dinner, lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (680 g), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp Napa Valley olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for light glaze)
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes (60 g), optional for extra crunch
  • cooking spray (for the baking sheet)

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it.
  2. Pat the chicken dry. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. If using, add honey and hot sauce, then toss again.
  3. For a breaded finish, toss the seasoned chicken cubes in panko or crushed cornflakes to coat, then shake off any excess.
  4. Spread the chicken bites on the pan in a single layer, ensuring space between each piece.
  5. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip the chicken. Continue baking for 6–8 minutes more, or until the centers reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest the chicken for 2 minutes. Serve with your favorite dips (BBQ, ranch, honey-mustard) or over salads and rice bowls.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal

Notes

Ingredient Swap: I've found that boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully here too, they stay incredibly moist and add a slightly richer flavor, which I sometimes prefer.
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