Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet indulgent dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than these Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delicious appetizer for gatherings, these tender chicken morsels are coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that will have your taste buds singing.
The beauty of air frying lies in its ability to create a crisp exterior while keeping the meat succulent and juicy on the inside, all without the excess oil of traditional frying methods. This recipe combines the convenience of the air fryer with the rich, savory notes of garlic and butter, making it an instant favorite for garlic lovers and chicken enthusiasts alike.
In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up these delightful bites that are not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of rice, toss them into a salad, or enjoy them as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
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- Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until well coated.
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- Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In a second shallow dish, add the beaten egg. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
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- Bread the Chicken: Take each piece of seasoned chicken and first dip it into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. Place the breaded chicken bites on a plate.
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- Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Mix well.
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- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
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- Air Fry the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Brush or drizzle half of the garlic butter mixture over the chicken.
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- Cook to Crispy Perfection: Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
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- Finish with Garlic Butter: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and immediately drizzle the remaining garlic butter mixture over the top. Toss gently to coat.
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- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken bites for added color and flavor. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Butter: 3 tablespoons, melted
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a zesty finish)
These key ingredients will come together to create deliciously crispy and flavorful chicken bites that are perfect for a quick meal or snack!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step is crucial to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that crispy texture we all crave.
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Prepare the Chicken: While the air fryer is warming up, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This size helps them cook quickly and evenly.
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Make the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Once melted, stir in 3-4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley (or fresh if you have it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
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Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, tossing to coat every piece thoroughly. This not only adds flavor but helps the breadcrumbs adhere better.
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Dredge in Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, add about 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch) and optionally season them with a little more salt, pepper, and some paprika for color. Take each piece of coated chicken and roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered, pressing down gently to make sure the coating sticks well.
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Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken bites in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. This will allow the hot air to circulate around each piece, resulting in even crispiness.
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Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken bites at 380°F (193°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket or flip the chicken bites using tongs to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. If you prefer them extra crispy, feel free to cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking to avoid burning.
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Check for Doneness: The chicken should be golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Resting Time: Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them sit for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
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Serve: Serve your crispy air fryer garlic butter chicken bites hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired. These bites pair perfectly with dipping sauces such as ranch, garlic aioli, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for those who like a kick!
Enjoy your delicious, crunchy bites that are sure to be a hit at any dinner table or game day gathering!
Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and dips to create a delicious meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
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Fresh Salad: Pair the chicken bites with a crisp green salad, topped with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the garlic butter.
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a tangy barbecue sauce. A spicy aioli can add a zesty kick!
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Grain Bowls: Create a hearty grain bowl by layering cooked quinoa or brown rice at the bottom, then adding your chicken bites along with sautéed vegetables for color and nutrition.
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Taco Night: Use the chicken bites as a filling for soft or crunchy tacos. Add toppings like shredded lettuce, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a tasty twist.
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Sliders: Host a slider night and serve the chicken bites on mini buns with your favorite toppings. A slice of pickle, a drizzle of garlic sauce, and coleslaw work wonderfully here.
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Stir-fried Veggies: For a fusion twist, stir-fry some bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas in soy sauce and sesame oil. Serve the chicken over this colorful medley for a satisfying meal.
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Pasta Dish: Toss the chicken bites with cooked pasta, sautéed garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil, then finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an easy yet elegant dish.
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Baked Potatoes: Serve alongside baked potatoes topped with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits for a comforting meal.
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Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the chicken bites into a charcuterie or appetizer board. Add an array of cheeses, olives, and crackers for a fun snacking experience.
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Vegetable Sides: Complement with roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a nutritious touch.
These delightful chicken bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings to find your favorite combinations!
Conclusion
These Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or an impressive appetizer for your gatherings. With their golden, crunchy exterior and succulent, juicy interior, they provide a satisfying texture that perfectly complements the rich garlic butter flavor. Plus, the air fryer makes them healthier than traditional frying without sacrificing taste.
Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also cook quickly, making them a great option for busy days. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself wanting to make these flavorful bites again and again. Enjoy every crispy, buttery bite!
