These air fryer chicken bites are the perfect solution when you are craving flavorful chicken bites but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have tender, juicy chicken pieces with just the right amount of Italian flavor. These are a must have on our dinner rotation.
I always double this recipe, so I have these chicken bites for salads or when I want a protein-filled lunch.
Using an air fryer is a fast way to create delicious meats for your meals. Also, be sure to try these air fried steak bites, easy air fried brats and this air fried Kielbasa.
Table of contents
Why I love this recipe
I adore this air fryer chicken bite recipe because it’s an absolute breeze to prepare. With minimal prep time and even less cleanup, it's the perfect weeknight dinner solution.
These chicken bites are a flavor explosion! The juicy chicken combined with just the right amount of aromatic Italian seasonings create a taste sensation that's simply irresistible.
I love how tender and juicy these chicken bites are. The air fryer locks in all the moisture, resulting in a succulent piece of chicken every time.
Whether it's a casual weeknight meal or a game-day snack, these air fryer chicken bites are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re the perfect combination of delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Just enough seasonings to give it a delicious Italian flavor!
Cut up chicken (into 1 inch pieces). I use chicken breast but this recipe would also work well with boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
Italian herb seasoning - I use the unsalted kind. If you don't have a container of mixed herb seasoning, a mixture of what you have on hand, or even just oregano would taste good!
Onion powder and garlic powder - just to give this a little flavor kick!
Your favorite Italian Salad Dressing. I love the one from Olive Garden that you buy at the grocery store. Make sure there is some oil in the one you use, it helps the seasonings stick to the chicken.
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Optional - A sprinkle of Kosher salt at the end. I normally find it doesn't need it because the chicken if flavorful enough. However, some folks prefer more salt.
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Mine takes about 3 minutes to preheat.
Step 1
In a medium bowl, place cut-up chicken and all seasonings listed except for the salt (which is optional).
Step 2
Spray basket with no stick spray. Add the seasoned chicken in a single row onto the basket. If chicken is crowded, you may need to make another batch.
Step 3
My chicken bites cook perfectly in 10 minutes at 400°F. I do turn the pieces over (with tongs) after 5 minutes. If you would like to double check if they are done, use an instant read thermometer to confirm an internal temp. of 165°F. Or cut a piece to ensure juices are clear.
How to Serve
This is a nice protein dish to serve with one or two sides. Further down, I have some suggested vegetable and potato suggestions. I often eat this with a salad for lunch or dinner the next day. This is great to make when you know you have a busy week and are trying to meal plan.
Storage
Can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 - 4 days if in a closed container. The cooked bites can also be frozen but may end up being a little dry when reheated (I sprinkle just a bit of salad dressing on it to prevent the dry texture).
I cut up and season the chicken and then portion it into small freezer bags so that they can quickly be cooked (after thawing in the refrigerator). I put the small bags into a larger freezer bags so they are stay together in the freezer.
FAQs
Yes, but cook after the chicken has been thawed. I would cut the chicken into the 1 inch pieces so it thaws quicker.
Of course! Use your favorite combination. Another favorite of mine is lemon pepper (use black pepper, lemon zest and garlic powder).
Air Fryer Side Ideas
Air Fryer Chicken Bites (easy and delicious)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast That is often 2 chicken breasts in a retail packages.
- 2 tablespoons Italian Salad dressing My favorite is Olive Garden
- 1 teaspoon dry Italian herbs or make up your mixture with Italian herbs on hand.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- optional Kosher salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Mine takes about 3 minutes to preheat.
- In a medium bowl, place cut-up chicken and all seasonings listed except for the salt (which is optional).
- Spray basket with no stick spray. Add the seasoned chicken in a single row onto the basket. If chicken is crowded, you may need to make another batch.
- My chicken bites cook perfectly in 10 minutes at 400°F. I do turn the pieces over (with tongs) after 5 minutes. If you would like to double check if they are done, use an instant read thermometer to confirm an internal temp. of 165°F. Or cut a piece to ensure juices are clear.
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