Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Bites: Easy Weeknight Win (Print Version)
Quick Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Bites are a family favorite. Get tender, crispy chicken every time with my simple recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Kid-Friendly, High-Protein
# Ingredients:
→ Base Ingredients
01 -
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
04 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
1 tsp garlic powder
06 -
1 tsp onion powder
07 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
1/2 tsp salt
09 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Finishing Touches
10 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
11 -
Dipping sauces (honey mustard, ranch, buffalo, etc.)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get those boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Try to keep them somewhat uniform so they cook evenly. This is where I sometimes get a little too eager and end up with some tiny bits and some chunky ones, but it always works out! Pat them really, really dry with paper towels; honestly, this makes all the difference for that crispy coating later.
02 -
Grab three shallow bowls. In the first, put your flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. In the second, whisk those eggs. In the third, pour your glorious panko breadcrumbs. This setup is key for making these Crispy Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Bites. My counter usually looks like a war zone at this point, but it's a happy mess!
03 -
Take each chicken piece, one by one. First, dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off. Finally, roll it generously in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they stick. Lay the coated pieces on a plate or baking sheet. This part takes a minute, but it’s so satisfying to see them all perfectly coated.
04 -
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This is a step I always forget to salt the water, I mean, preheat! Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Arrange the coated boneless chicken bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Overcrowding is my biggest mistake, and it leads to steaming, not crisping!
05 -
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, then flip each piece over and continue air frying for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C). The smell at this point? Oh my goodness, it's heavenly! That warm, smoky, savory scent just fills the kitchen.
06 -
Once they’re done, immediately transfer the Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Bites to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you're feeling fancy, and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces. They're best enjoyed fresh and hot, so don't wait too long! Watch them disappear, honestly, it’s magic.
# Notes:
01 -
Always pat your chicken pieces super dry for the crispiest coating.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
03 -
If you don't have panko, regular breadcrumbs work, but the crispness won't be quite the same.
04 -
Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for extra fun and flavor!
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Air fryer
02 -
shallow bowls
03 -
tongs
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 350-400 kcal
Total Fat: 15-20g
Total Carbohydrate: 20-25g
Protein: 30-35g