Easy Air Fryer Chicken Bites

I remember the day I got my first air fryer because I couldn’t wait to try making something crispy without the mess of deep frying so I started with chicken bites. I seasoned them simply coated them lightly and within minutes they came out perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside while staying juicy inside. One bite and I was hooked.

Since then these easy air fryer chicken bites have become my go-to snack for busy nights because they’re quick satisfying and way healthier than fast food. My family loves dipping them in different sauces and they always disappear faster than I can make them.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Chicken breast – Lean and tender, perfect for bite-sized pieces.
• Olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick and adds crispiness.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Give the chicken bites that crunchy coating.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory cheesy layer to the breading.
• Garlic powder – For a hint of savory depth.
• Paprika – Brings a mild smoky flavor.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Air fryer – The key to achieving a crispy exterior with minimal oil.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing the chicken pieces with oil and seasoning.
• Tongs – Handy for coating and transferring chicken bites.
• Knife – For cutting the chicken into even bite-sized cubes.
• Measuring spoons – To keep the seasoning balanced.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by cutting the chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.

Step 2:

In a mixing bowl I toss the chicken with olive oil to coat it lightly.

Step 3:

I combine panko breadcrumbs parmesan garlic powder paprika salt and black pepper in another bowl then coat the chicken pieces by rolling them in the mixture.

Step 4:

I preheat the air fryer to 400°F for a few minutes to make sure it’s hot before cooking.

Step 5:

I arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding them then cook for 8 to 10 minutes shaking the basket halfway through until they are crispy and cooked through.

Step 6:

Once done I serve them hot with my favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.

Tips

For extra crunch I spray the coated chicken bites lightly with cooking spray before air frying. You can also marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for a few hours before coating them to make them extra tender. If you prefer a spicier version add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.

Ways to Serve

These chicken bites are perfect as an appetizer with dips but they also work great in wraps salads or rice bowls. For a fun family dinner I serve them with fries and a side of coleslaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay even juicier.

How do I store leftover air fryer chicken bites?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days then reheat them in the air fryer to bring back their crispiness.

Can I freeze these chicken bites?

Absolutely! Freeze them after cooking then reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer for a quick snack.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these easy air fryer chicken bites because they’re crispy delicious and so simple to make. Let me know how yours turn out and which dipping sauce you pair them with.

Happy Cooking!

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