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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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