Air Fryer Chicken Bites Recipe
These Air Fryer Chicken Bites are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, ready in just 20 minutes! Made with simple seasonings and minimal oil, they're a healthy, high-protein option that's perfect for easy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers. Customize with your favorite flavors and serve with dipping sauces for a family-approved meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Extra Crispiness (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch highly recommended for crispy coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Cut chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
- Mix the Seasoning Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended to create a flavorful coating base.
- Coat the Chicken: Add dried chicken pieces to the seasoned oil mixture. Toss thoroughly using your hands or a large spoon until every piece is completely coated. If using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it over the coated chicken now and toss again until evenly distributed.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This preheating step is essential for achieving an immediate sear that locks in juices and promotes crispiness.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch. Leave space between pieces for proper air circulation. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook to Perfection: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the pieces halfway through at the 6-7 minute mark. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and displays a golden-brown exterior.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer cooked chicken bites to a serving plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Pro Tips:
- For Maximum Crispiness: Don't skip patting the chicken dry and add the optional cornstarch coating. These two steps make the biggest difference in texture.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: Larger chunks need 15-16 minutes, while smaller pieces may only need 10-12 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Air fryers need proper air circulation to work effectively. Cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for best results.
- Flavor Variations: Try Buffalo style (toss with hot sauce and butter), Honey Garlic (brush with honey-soy glaze), Lemon Herb (add lemon zest and oregano), or BBQ Ranch (use BBQ seasoning and ranch powder).