There’s something so satisfying about a bite-sized snack that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Air Fryer Chicken Bites have quickly become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or game-day appetizers. Not only are they super easy to make, but they’re also a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken, all while delivering that irresistible crunch.
I love that this recipe comes together in no time, and the air fryer does most of the work. Whether you’re serving them as a quick snack, pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces, or tossing them into a salad for some added protein, these chicken bites are versatile and packed with flavor. Let’s break it down step by step so you can enjoy these delicious bites in your own kitchen.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Chicken Breast: Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They’re lean, easy to cut into bite-sized pieces, and cook evenly in the air fryer.
Buttermilk: This is a game-changer when it comes to tenderizing the chicken and helping the breading stick. It also adds a slight tangy flavor to each bite.
All-Purpose Flour: A classic base for breading, flour helps create that crispy coating everyone loves.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, panko breadcrumbs are the way to go. They’re lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
Paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the breading, enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Garlic Powder: A simple seasoning that adds a savory kick to the coating.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors in the breading.
Cooking Spray: Helps the chicken bites achieve that golden, crispy finish without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients List
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Place the pieces into a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk for 20–30 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will be the flavorful coating for your chicken bites.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Toss each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they’re fully coated. For extra crispiness, press the coating gently onto the chicken.
Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken bites in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken bites for 8–10 minutes. Flip the pieces halfway through cooking and give them a light spray of cooking oil to help them crisp up. Once they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), they’re ready to serve.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes it but also helps the breading stick better. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- Shake Off Excess Breading: To avoid a messy air fryer, gently shake off any extra breading from the chicken pieces before placing them in the basket.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: Give the chicken bites enough room to cook evenly. If you’re making a larger batch, cook them in multiple rounds.
- Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to trim off any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Q: What dipping sauces go best with these chicken bites?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo pair perfectly with these crispy bites.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
Q: How long can I store leftover chicken bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken bites?
Definitely. After breading, freeze the uncooked chicken bites on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.