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Homemade Healthy Breaded Chicken Bites – Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders, look no further than these homemade breaded chicken bites made in an air fryer. They’re crispy, juicy, and packed with flavour, yet significantly lower in fat and calories. Perfect for a family meal, meal prep, or even as a party snack, these chicken bites are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites:

• 500g (about 1 lb) chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

For the Breading:

• 100g (1 cup) wholemeal breadcrumbs: For added fibre and flavour.
• 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, but it adds an extra depth of flavour.
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: For a slightly smoky taste.
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano: For an herbal touch.
• 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten.

For Cooking:

• Olive oil spray: To help achieve that crispy texture without the need for deep frying.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Make sure they are well coated so that the seasoning penetrates the meat.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, place the beaten eggs. In another bowl, combine the wholemeal breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating. Place the breaded chicken bites on a plate or a wire rack as you go.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Once pre-heated, spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken bites in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. If necessary, you can cook them in batches.

Spray the tops of the chicken bites lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. These bites are delightful served with a dipping sauce such as homemade honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a refreshing yoghurt dip.

Tips for Success

• Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tailor the seasoning to your taste. Adding cayenne pepper can give these bites a spicy kick, while Italian herbs can enhance the flavour profile.

• Make It a Meal: Serve these chicken bites over a bed of mixed greens or alongside roasted vegetables for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to revive their crispiness.

Conclusion

Light, crispy, and full of flavour, these homemade healthy breaded chicken bites are a fantastic treat for any occasion. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy the satisfaction of crispy chicken without the guilt of deep frying. Perfect for both kids and adults, they are bound to become a family favourite. Try out this simple recipe today and indulge in a guilt-free snack!

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