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Air Fryer Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.2 from 3 reviews

Crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Bites made with tender chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. This easy, 20-minute recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a perfectly golden exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside. A quick and healthy snack or appetizer that's ready in no time.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces

Seasoning and Oil

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Air Fryer and Chicken: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them very dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sea salt, ground black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Pour the seasoning mixture over the chicken pieces and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken Bites: Add about half of the chicken bites in a single layer to the air fryer basket to avoid overcrowding. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
  5. Serve: Remove the cooked chicken bites and pile them on a platter. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy this delicious, crispy snack while warm.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for best results and even crisping.
  • Patting the chicken dry is essential for achieving a crispy texture in the air fryer.
  • Feel free to use avocado oil as a substitute for olive oil for a different flavor profile and high smoke point.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  • Leftover chicken bites can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.