Chicken bites are the perfect go-to snack—crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game, or just need a quick bite, these little pieces of juicy chicken are always a hit. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own—they’re that good.
Why We Love This Chicken Bites Recipe
Chicken bites are not just another recipe; they evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering endless variations. You may love that they are quick to prepare and need minimal ingredients. The crispy exterior paired with the juicy interior creates a delightful contrast, making each bite an experience worth savoring. Plus, you can effortlessly customize them with different spices or serve them alongside various dips to cater to your taste.
Ingredients for Chicken Bites
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving those perfectly crispy chicken bites that you’ll come back to time and again. Below is a straightforward list of what you will need for this recipe, which ensures simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Chicken Bites Directions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your delicious chicken bites. Following these directions will yield perfectly golden and crispy bites that will become an instant hit.
Prepare the Coating: Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, combine the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and coarse black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients well until they are evenly blended. This spice mixture will provide a flavorful coating for the chicken chunks.
Dice the Chicken: Take your pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into small, even pieces. Aim for about 1/2 inch cubes. Consistent sizing ensures that all pieces cook evenly and gives them a more appealing appearance.
Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is cut, add it to the bowl with your cornstarch mixture. Toss the chicken pieces gently until they are well-coated in the spice mixture. This will not only add flavor but also help achieve that coveted crispy texture.
Heat Your Pan: Place a large frying pan on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Add the olive oil to the pan. You’ll know the oil is ready when it starts to shimmer but isn’t smoking.
Cook the Chicken: Once your oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. It’s essential that you don’t overcrowd the chicken so that every piece gets that beautiful golden brown crust. Allow the chicken to cook without stirring for about 4 minutes.
Finish Cooking: After 4 minutes, give the chicken a gentle stir to promote even cooking. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken until it becomes golden and crispy, ensuring that it is fully cooked through. The goal is to achieve a satisfying crunch while maintaining juicy chicken inside.
And just like that, you’ve got flavorful chicken bites ready to be served.
How to Serve Chicken Bites
Once your chicken bites are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up! These bites can be enjoyed in many ways, making them an adaptable choice for your meals or gatherings.
You might decide to serve them hot right out of the pan for the best texture. Consider pairing your crispy bites with a variety of dipping sauces to amp up the flavor. Options like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing offer delightful complements to the seasoned chicken.
If you’re hosting a party, you could arrange the bites on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or slices of lemon for added flair. They also make a great addition to a festive appetizer spread alongside other finger foods.
Expert Tips for Chicken Bites
To elevate your chicken bites to a new level, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Uniform Cutting: Ensuring that your chicken pieces are uniform in size is a vital step. This way, they all cook evenly, reducing the chances of some being undercooked while others are overdone.
- High Heat Cooking: The secret to achieving a crispy exterior is cooking at medium-high heat. This helps the cornstarch to create a delightful crunch while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Resting the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken bites rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy bites every time.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Feel free to add your favorite spices or even throw in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor!
How to Store Chicken Bites
If you find yourself with leftovers—though it’s unlikely—storing your chicken bites properly is crucial for maintaining their texture and taste.
Let the chicken bites cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days.
To reheat, avoid using the microwave, as this can make them soggy. Instead, try reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help regain their crispiness.
Variations of Chicken Bites
One of the best things about chicken bites is how versatile they are. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Spicy Chicken Bites: Add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix if you enjoy a little heat.
- Herbed Chicken Bites: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the coating for a more aromatic flavor profile.
- Baked Version: If you’re looking for a healthier option, toss the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
- Asian-Inspired Bites: Swap out the spices for soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Serve with a sweet and sour or soy dipping sauce for a twist that’s sure to impress.
FAQ About Chicken Bites
What’s the best way to cook chicken bites?
The optimal way is to pan-fry them over medium-high heat. This technique ensures that the exterior becomes crispy while keeping the inside juicy.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but it’s advisable to thaw the chicken completely before cutting and coating it for the best texture.
How long can I store leftover chicken bites?
Store your chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat them properly to retain their crispiness.
Crispy Chicken Bites
Ingredients
For the coating
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch To achieve a crispy texture.
- 2 teaspoons paprika Adds color and flavor.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Provides additional flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper To add a hint of spice.
Main ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1/2 inch cubes.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For pan-frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and coarse black pepper. Mix well.
- Dice the chicken breasts into small, even pieces (about 1/2 inch cubes).
Coating the Chicken
- Add the diced chicken to the bowl with the cornstarch mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
Cooking
- Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add coated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 4 minutes without stirring.
- After 4 minutes, gently stir the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.