How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites

The air fryer revolution has transformed home cooking, making it possible to enjoy crispy, delicious food with a fraction of the oil traditionally used. Among the many air fryer favorites, chicken bites stand out as a versatile, crowd-pleasing option that can be prepared in countless ways. Whether you prefer them breaded for maximum crunch, seasoned with flour for a lighter coating, or even no breading for a keto-friendly meal, air fryer chicken bites deliver restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making perfect air fryer chicken bites. From the basic recipe to variations like crispy chicken air fryer recipes and options with sauce, you’ll discover just how long to cook chicken bites in air fryer to achieve that ideal balance of juicy interior and crispy exterior. We’ll also cover the optimal fried chicken air fryer time for different preparation methods, ensuring your chicken bites turn out perfectly every time.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals, a health-conscious cook seeking lighter alternatives to traditional fried foods, or simply someone who loves good food without the fuss, this guide has something for you. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of air fryer chicken bites!

Ingredients List

For Basic Air Fryer Chicken Bites

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat

For Breaded Chicken Bites

• 1 pound chicken, cubed
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

For Flour-Coated Chicken Bites

• 1 pound chicken, cubed
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray

For Keto Chicken Bites

• 1 pound chicken, cubed
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream
• Cooking spray

For Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce (Optional)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Honey Sriracha Sauce (Optional)

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder

For Buffalo Sauce (Optional)

• 1/3 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Timing

Understanding the proper timing for air fryer chicken bites is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. Here’s a breakdown:

Prep Time

• Basic chicken bites: 5 minutes
• Breaded chicken bites: 10 minutes
• Flour-coated chicken bites: 10 minutes
• Keto chicken bites: 10 minutes

Cook Time

• No breading: 8-10 minutes at 380°F (190°C)
• With flour coating: 10-12 minutes at 380°F (190°C)
• Breaded chicken bites: 12-14 minutes at 380°F (190°C)
• Keto breading: 10-12 minutes at 380°F (190°C)

Total Time

• Basic chicken bites: 15-20 minutes
• Breaded chicken bites: 20-25 minutes
• Flour-coated chicken bites: 20-25 minutes
• Keto chicken bites: 20-25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Basic Air Fryer Chicken Bites (No Breading)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into 1-inch cubes.
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this helps them crisp up better).

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes and toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Preheat and Arrange

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
2. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a nice golden-brown exterior.

Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat dry.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Station

1. Beat eggs in a shallow bowl.
2. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
2. Roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Place breaded chicken pieces on a plate while breading the remaining chicken.

Step 4: Preheat and Arrange

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Arrange breaded chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

1. Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
2. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip or shake the basket.
3. Cook for another 6-8 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Flour-Coated Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat dry.

Step 2: Set Up Coating Station

1. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
3. Dredge again in the flour mixture for a double coating.

Step 4: Preheat and Arrange

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Arrange coated chicken pieces in a single layer.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

1. Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with cooking spray.
2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Keto Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and pat dry.

Step 2: Set Up Keto Breading Station

1. In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
2. Roll in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Preheat and Arrange

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Arrange coated chicken pieces in a single layer.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

1. Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with cooking spray.
2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Making the Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn).

Step 2: Create the Sauce

1. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Stir in heavy cream and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in fresh parsley.

Step 3: Serve with Chicken Bites

1. Either drizzle the sauce over the cooked chicken bites or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.

Making Honey Sriracha Sauce

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder.

Step 2: Heat and Thicken (Optional)

1. For a thicker sauce, pour the mixture into a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Serve with Chicken Bites

1. Toss the cooked chicken bites in the sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.

Making Buffalo Sauce

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 2: Serve with Chicken Bites

1. Toss the cooked chicken bites in the sauce while still hot, or serve it on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of air fryer chicken bites varies in nutritional content based on the preparation method. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (about 4 oz or 113g):

Basic Chicken Bites (No Breading)

• Calories: 170-190
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 300mg

Breaded Chicken Bites

• Calories: 230-250
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 400mg

Flour-Coated Chicken Bites

• Calories: 210-230
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 350mg

Keto Chicken Bites

• Calories: 220-240
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 380mg

Sauce Additions (Per 2 Tablespoons)

• Garlic Butter Parmesan: 120-140 calories
• Honey Sriracha: 70-90 calories
• Buffalo: 60-80 calories

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Air fryer chicken bites are already a healthier alternative to deep-fried options, but here are some additional ways to make them even more nutritious:

Lower-Calorie Options

1. Skip the breading entirely: Season chicken with herbs and spices for flavor without the extra carbs and calories.
2. Use egg whites instead of whole eggs: This reduces fat and cholesterol in the breading process.
3. Opt for cooking spray instead of oil: A light coating of cooking spray provides enough moisture without excess calories.

Lower-Carb Options

1. Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs: A zero-carb alternative that still provides crunch.
2. Try coconut flour: It contains fewer carbs than regular flour and adds a slight sweetness.
3. Use a mixture of Parmesan cheese and herbs: This creates a flavorful crust with minimal carbs.

Lower-Sodium Options

1. Make your seasoning blends: Commercial seasoning mixes often contain high amounts of sodium.
2. Use herbs and spices: Fresh or dried herbs and spices add flavor without sodium.
3. Limit Parmesan or use a lower-sodium cheese: Nutritional yeast can provide a cheese-like flavor with less sodium.

Gluten-Free Options

1. Use gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs: Many brands now offer gluten-free alternatives.
2. Try crushed rice cereal: Makes a crispy coating that’s naturally gluten-free.
3. Use cornstarch or potato starch: These create a light, crispy coating without gluten.

Dairy-Free Options

1. Use plant-based milk in egg wash: Almond, soy, or oat milk works well.
2. Skip the Parmesan in breading: Use nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor.
3. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in sauces: It provides richness without dairy.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer chicken bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways:

As an Appetizer

1. With dipping sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ, ranch, or any of the homemade sauces mentioned above.
2. On a platter: Arrange on a serving platter with toothpicks and garnish with fresh herbs.
3. As part of a finger food spread, include alongside other appetizers like vegetables and dip, mozzarella sticks, or stuffed mushrooms.

As a Main Course

1. With sides: Pair with air fryer vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes.
2. In a grain bowl: Serve over quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of sauce.
3. With pasta: Toss with pasta and garlic butter Parmesan sauce for a complete meal.
4. In a wrap or pita: Add to a tortilla or pita with lettuce, tomato, and sauce for a handheld meal.

In Salads

1. Caesar salad: Top a classic Caesar salad with crispy chicken bites instead of traditional grilled chicken.
2. Asian-inspired salad: Serve with mixed greens, mandarin oranges, sliced almonds, and a sesame ginger dressing.
3. Cobb salad: Add to a classic Cobb with bacon, avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese.

As a Snack

1. Meal prep: Prepare a batch for the week and reheat as needed for a quick protein-rich snack.
2. Lunchbox addition: Pack cold or at room temperature in a lunchbox with dipping sauce.
3. Movie night: Serve as a healthier alternative to traditional movie snacks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket

• Problem: Chicken pieces steam rather than crisp up, resulting in a soggy texture.
• Solution: Cook in batches, ensuring there’s space between pieces for air circulation.

2. Not Preheating the Air Fryer

• Problem: Uneven cooking and a less crispy exterior.
• Solution: Always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food.

3. Using Chicken Pieces That Are Too Large

• Problem: Exterior overcooks before interior reaches safe temperature.
• Solution: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking.

4. Forgetting to Flip or Shake

• Problem: One side browns more than the other.
• Solution: Shake the basket or flip pieces halfway through cooking time.

5. Not Patting Chicken Dry

• Problem: Excess moisture prevents proper crisping.
• Solution: Always pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.

6. Using Too Much Oil

• Problem: Chicken becomes greasy, defeating the purpose of air frying.
• Solution: A light coating of oil or cooking spray is sufficient.

7. Not Checking Internal Temperature

• Problem: Undercooked chicken poses food safety risks.
• Solution: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Adding Sauce Too Early

• Problem: The Sauce can burn or make the breading soggy during cooking.
• Solution: Toss chicken in sauce after cooking or serve sauce on the side.

9. Not Spraying the Breadings

• Problem: Dry flour or breadcrumb coating doesn’t brown properly.
• Solution: Lightly spray breaded chicken with cooking spray before air frying.

10. Cooking Directly from Frozen

• Problem: Uneven cooking and potential food safety issues.
• Solution: Thaw chicken completely before air frying or adjust cooking time significantly.

Storing Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Refrigeration

1. Cool completely: Allow chicken bites to cool to room temperature before storing.
2. Store properly: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
3. Keep sauce separate: If using sauce, store it separately to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.

Freezing

1. Freeze individually: Arrange cooked chicken bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
2. Label and date: Mark the freezer bag with the date; chicken bites can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Freeze before adding sauce: Always freeze chicken bites plain and add sauce after reheating.

Reheating

1. In the air fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
2. In the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and heat for 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet.
3. Microwave (not recommended for breaded varieties): Use only for non-breaded chicken bites; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals.

Air fryer chicken bites represent the perfect intersection of convenience, health, and deliciousness. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, they deliver the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the guilt or mess of traditional deep frying. Whether you prefer them crispy with breading, lightly coated with flour, or simply seasoned for a keto-friendly option, the versatility of air fryer chicken bites makes them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

The key to perfect air fryer chicken bites lies in understanding how long to cook chicken bites in air fryer and mastering the fried chicken air fryer time for your specific appliance. Once you’ve got the basics down, the possibilities are endless—from adding different seasonings to creating various complementary sauces.

Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner, preparing them for a party appetizer, or packing them for lunch, air fryer chicken bites are sure to become a regular feature in your cooking rotation. They’re proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

So fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy the perfect bite-sized pieces of chicken that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and completely irresistible from the first bite to the last!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for air fryer chicken bites?

While fresh chicken is preferred for optimal texture and even cooking, you can use frozen chicken with some adjustments. If using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cutting into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, if you’re using pre-cut frozen chicken bites, add 3-5 minutes to the cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). The texture might be slightly different from fresh chicken, but it will still be delicious.

How do I prevent dry chicken in the air fryer?

The key to preventing dry chicken is not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C) rather than relying solely on cooking time. Additionally, consider brining the chicken pieces before cooking (soak in salt water for 15-30 minutes), which helps retain moisture. For breaded chicken, the coating helps seal in moisture. Finally, cooking at the right temperature (around 380°F/190°C) allows the chicken to cook through without drying out.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

There are several alternatives to panko breadcrumbs that work well in air fryer recipes:

1. Regular breadcrumbs (though they create a slightly denser coating)
2. Crushed cornflakes or rice cereal for extra crunch
3. Crushed pork rinds for a zero-carb option
4. Almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese for a keto-friendly option
5. Crushed pretzels for a unique flavor
6. Ground flaxseed mixed with Parmesan for a nutritious alternative

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe can easily be made dairy-free. Skip the Parmesan cheese in the breading and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor. For the egg wash, you can use just eggs or substitute a mixture of non-dairy milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch. For sauces, use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. There are also several dairy-free cheese alternatives available that melt well and can be used in place of Parmesan.

Can I bake these chicken bites in the oven instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! To bake these chicken bites in a conventional oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place the prepared chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. For optimal crispiness, place them on a wire rack set over the baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While the oven method works well, the air fryer typically provides a crispier exterior in less time and with less oil.