Description
Crispy and flavorful Chicken Bites, perfect as a snack or appetizer. Coated in seasoned flour and crispy breadcrumbs, these bites can be baked or fried for a golden, crunchy exterior and tender interior. Served with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch dressing, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For Dipping Sauce (optional):
- ½ cup ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Alternatively, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat if frying.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Beat eggs: In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined to help the coating stick to the chicken pieces.
- Prepare breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl, preferably using panko for extra crunch.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the seasoned flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumbs, making sure each piece is evenly covered for maximum crispiness.
- Cook the chicken bites: If baking, arrange the coated chicken bites on a greased baking sheet in a single layer and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy. If frying, heat the oil in a skillet and fry the chicken bites in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the chicken bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture.
- Ensure chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking.
- If baking, flipping the chicken bites halfway helps them cook evenly and crisp up on all sides.
- Drain fried chicken bites on paper towels to reduce excess oil for a less greasy bite.
- Try different dipping sauces to vary the flavor profile according to your preference.
