I guarantee that the whole of your family will love these flavorful chicken chunks that are low in fats but high in protein. This chicken recipe will be a new hit in your family. Air fryer turns these bite-sized chicken pieces into juicy, tender, and delicious ones.
Here, we will discover how to cook chicken bites in air fryer, top air frying tips, how to serve, variations, and much more.
Why Air Fryer Chicken Bites Are The Best
- Air fryer chicken bites are a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks. You can enjoy the crispy texture without excess calories and saturated fats.
- Air fryer chicken bites are incredibly easy and quick to prepare. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious snack in no time.
- You can achieve flavorful air fryer chicken bites with just a few herbs and spices. You can experiment with different combinations to create unique and mouthwatering flavors.
- Above all, air fryer chicken bites are undeniably delicious. The crispy texture and perfect seasoning result in a snack that is both flavorful and satisfying.
- Unlike deep frying, air frying produces minimal mess. There are no hot oil splatters, and cleaning up is a breeze.
What You Need
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs - 1 lb (approximately 450g)
- Salt - 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
Required Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- Chopping Board
- Knife
How To Cook Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are of uniform size for even cooking and coloring.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the chicken well to ensure it's evenly coated with the seasonings.
- For enhanced flavor, cover the seasoned chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the meat. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more flavorful result.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer reaches the desired temperature quickly when you add the chicken, which results in a crispy exterior.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken pieces and toss gently to coat them evenly. The olive oil helps in achieving a crispy texture during air frying.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, work in batches.
- Air fry the chicken bites at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes and flip their sides halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Cooking time may vary based on the air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
- Once the air fryer chicken bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving.
- Serve the hot and crispy chicken bites with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the delicious, flavorful snack!
Top Air Frying Tips
- Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer helps in achieving a crispy texture. It allows the hot air to start cooking your food immediately when you place it inside.
- Before seasoning and air frying, pat your ingredients dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- To ensure uniform cooking, shake the air fryer basket or flip the food halfway through the cooking time. This helps in achieving an even, golden-brown texture on all sides.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat items. Chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
How To Serve Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Serve air fryer chicken bite with classic dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or tangy buffalo sauce. These sauces enhance the flavor of every bite.
- Serve this dish with Air Fryer Red Potatoes, Frozen Potato Skins In Air Fryer, Air Fryer Diced Potatoes, and Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes.
- Serve the chicken bites over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. Add steamed vegetables, avocado slices, and a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for a satisfying meal.
- Roll air fryer chicken bites in large lettuce leaves along with cucumber slices, avocado, and shredded carrots. Drizzle with a spicy Sriracha mayo or your favorite dressing for a light and healthy wrap.
Variations To Air Fryer Chicken Bites Recipe
- Toss air fryer chicken bites in a blend of minced garlic, grated Parmesan, and breadcrumbs for a savory, cheesy delight.
- Season air fryer chicken bites with zesty lemon zest, black pepper, and a hint of salt for a refreshing and peppery kick.
- Coat air fryer chicken bites in a fiery Sriracha sauce for a bold and spicy flavor explosion.
- Drizzle air fryer chicken bites with a sweet maple glaze for a delightful combination of sweetness and savory goodness.
- Coat air fryer chicken bites in Dijon mustard and a touch of honey for a tangy, mustardy twist.
Storing Air Fryer Chicken Bites
After preparing your delectable air fryer chicken bites, allow them to cool to room temperature. Place the leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Refrigerate the container for up to three days.
Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Bites
When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to preserve their crispy texture. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the chicken bites for 5-7 minutes until they are hot and crunchy. Enjoy your revived, crispy chicken bites!
Related Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
- Frozen Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Patties
- Air Fryer Frozen Popcorn Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Sausage
- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Air Fryer Turkey Wings
More Air Fryer Recipes
- Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
- Frozen Crinkle Fries In Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Cube Steak
- Air Fryer Peach Cobbler
- Air Fryer Flounder
How Long Do I Cook Chicken Bites In The Air Fryer?
Air fryer chicken bites usually take 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a crispy, golden texture. Adjust time-based on size and check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
How Do I Prevent Air Fryer Chicken Bites From Becoming Dry?
To keep your chicken bites moist, marinate them before cooking and coat them lightly with oil. Additionally, avoid overcooking; check their internal temperature and remove them from the air fryer once they reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I Freeze Air Fryer Chicken Bites For Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze air fryer chicken bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer for a crispy snack.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With Air Fryer Chicken Bites?
Classic choices include ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce. Experiment with sriracha mayo or tzatziki for unique and flavorful options.
Can I Reheat Chicken Bites More Than Once?
It's best to avoid multiple reheats to maintain texture. If needed, reheat once and consume promptly for the best taste and quality.
Air Fryer Chicken Bites
⏱️Cook Time
- Prep Time: 05 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
🥘Ingredients
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs - 1 lb (approximately 450g)
- Salt - 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion Powder - 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
📝Instructions
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are of uniform size for even cooking and coloring.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss the chicken well to ensure it's evenly coated with the seasonings.
- For enhanced flavor, cover the seasoned chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the meat. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more flavorful result.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. Preheating ensures the air fryer reaches the desired temperature quickly when you add the chicken, which results in a crispy exterior.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken pieces and toss gently to coat them evenly. The olive oil helps in achieving a crispy texture during air frying.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, work in batches.
- Air fry the chicken bites at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes and flip their sides halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Cooking time may vary based on the air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
- Once the air fryer chicken bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving.
- Serve the hot and crispy chicken bites with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the delicious, flavorful snack!
📝Recipe Notes
- Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer helps in achieving a crispy texture. It allows the hot air to start cooking your food immediately when you place it inside.
- Before seasoning and air frying, pat your ingredients dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- To ensure uniform cooking, shake the air fryer basket or flip the food halfway through the cooking time. This helps in achieving an even, golden-brown texture on all sides.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat items. Chicken should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
🔍Nutrition
Calories: 290kcallFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 90mgCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 40gSodium: 250mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.1gIron: 1mg
These values are approximate and can differ based on the specific recipe and ingredients.
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