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Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Bites: A Quick and Easy Recipe

In the world of quick and healthy cooking, the air fryer has become a beloved kitchen appliance. Its ability to produce crispy, golden-brown dishes with considerably less oil makes it a favourite among both amateur and seasoned chefs. One of the most delightful dishes you can prepare in an air fryer is chicken bites. These succulent morsels are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or even as a main course. In this article, we’ll guide you through making mouth-watering air fryer chicken bites that are sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make approximately 4 servings of air fryer chicken bites, you will need:

• 500g chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 100g plain flour (or gluten-free flour, if preferred)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 150g breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• Cooking spray or a small amount of oil, for greasing

Optional Marinade

For added flavour, you might consider marinating the chicken pieces in:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional):
   If you’re opting for a marinade, combine the chicken with the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time permits.

2. Prepare the Breading Station:
   Set up three shallow bowls: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs. In the breadcrumb bowl, mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken:
   Remove the chicken from the marinade, if used. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick well.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken bites begin cooking immediately, aiding in achieving a crispy exterior.

5. Air Fry the Chicken Bites:
   Place a single layer of chicken bites in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Lightly spray the bites with cooking spray or drizzle a little oil over them for extra crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 75°C (165°F) when done.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces—barbecue sauce, sweet chilli sauce, or a homemade garlic mayonnaise are all excellent options.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Bites

• Uniform Size: Cut chicken pieces to a uniform size to ensure they cook evenly.
• Don’t Rush the Marination: Allowing time for the flavours to penetrate the chicken enhances the overall taste. Even a short marinade can make a difference.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different spices or coatings. Adding grated parmesan to the breadcrumbs can elevate the taste, or try using herbs like basil or coriander for a fresher take.
• Store Leftovers: Any leftover chicken bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a minute or two to restore their crunch.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken bites are a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavour, they make an excellent choice for a simple family dinner or party snack. With just a few ingredients and an air fryer, you can whip up these tasty morsels in no time. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy beautifully crispy and succulent chicken bites that everyone will love!

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