Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are an incredibly tasty and easy-to-make dish that has quickly become a favorite in our home. The combination of crispy breadcrumb coating with a rich garlic and Parmesan flavor is simply irresistible. These chicken bites are perfect for a quick dinner, a savory snack, or even as a party appetizer. The best part? They’re air-fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying without compromising on taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 cup seasoned flour (mix flour with salt, pepper, and preferred herbs)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks.
- Set Up Coating Stations: In one bowl, place the beaten eggs. In another, combine the breadcrumbs with seasoned flour.
- Coating the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb and flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken.
- Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken bites in small batches, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Garlic Parmesan Coating: While the chicken cooks, mix the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Tossing the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken bites to a large bowl. Pour the garlic Parmesan mixture over them and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a side dish like frozen fries.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g (Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the size of the chicken bites and the exact ingredients used.)
Bonus Tips:
- Uniform Bites: Cut the chicken into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the breadcrumb mixture for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Suggestion: These bites pair well with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
FAQ Section:
- Can I bake these instead of air frying? Yes, you can bake them at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Can I use other cuts of chicken? Absolutely, though cooking times may vary depending on the thickness.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative for Parmesan? You can use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives, though the flavor will be different.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are sure to be a hit, offering a delicious balance of crunchy texture and savory flavors.