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Air Fryer Chicken Bites | Crispy Juicy 20-Minute Dinner

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Skip the grease! Our simple three-station breading yields intensely seasoned, super crispy Panko bites in minutes. Easy-to-follow steps and complete nutrition facts inside.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch bite-sized cubes. Set up a three-station breading assembly: Bowl 1 with flour, salt, garlic powder, and paprika; Bowl 2 with the beaten egg; and Bowl 3 with the Panko breadcrumbs.
  2. Step 2: Dredge each chicken bite sequentially: first coat thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess; second dip completely in the egg mixture; and finally press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs to ensure a full, even coating.
  3. Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking, then arrange the chicken bites in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket. Work in batches if necessary.
  4. Step 4: Air fry the bites for 5-6 minutes, then quickly open the basket, flip each piece, and lightly spray the tops of the chicken bites with cooking spray to ensure maximum crispiness.
  5. Step 5: Continue air frying for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but the crunchy coating is definitely best enjoyed fresh.
  • For the ideal reheated texture, skip the microwave and return chilled bites to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes until they are piping hot and crisp again.
  • Transform these bites into a quick dinner by serving them over a vibrant salad or alongside fluffy white rice with a drizzle of sweet chili or honey-mustard sauce.
  • Chef’s Tip: For maximum golden crispiness, ensure the Panko coating is firmly pressed onto the chicken and utilize the cooking spray twice—once before cooking and again right after flipping the batch.
  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8 chicken bites (approx. 115g prepared)
  • Calories: 260
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 1g