why make this recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Bites are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal. They are perfect for busy weeknights or as a tasty snack for gatherings. The use of an air fryer means you can cook these bites with less oil, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful.

how to make Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless chicken breast
1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1-2 tablespoons taco seasoning – like Siete
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt – if needed

Directions:

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
Cut the chicken into 1.5-inch chunks using a cutting board and a sharp knife. Then, add the cubed chicken to a medium bowl.
Toss the chicken with the oil and taco seasoning to fully coat. Note that the amounts of oil and taco seasoning can be adjusted based on your taste and the type of seasoning used. For example, when using Siete brand seasoning, you may find that 1.5 tablespoons of both oil and seasoning works well.
Place the seasoned, cubed chicken bites in a single layer in the preheated air fryer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides become golden.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink in the middle before serving.

how to serve Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Chicken Bites are great on their own or can be served with a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or ranch dressing. You can also place them on a bed of rice or alongside fresh veggies for a complete meal. They make an excellent addition to tacos, salads, or wraps as well.

how to store Air Fryer Chicken Bites

To store leftover chicken bites, let them cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

tips to make Air Fryer Chicken Bites

Make sure to cut chicken chunks evenly so they cook uniformly.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation, which helps achieve that nice, crispy texture.
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the olive oil and taco seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking, if time permits.
If you like it spicy, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or using a spicy taco seasoning.

variation

You can customize your Air Fryer Chicken Bites by trying different seasonings. For example, you could use garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite BBQ seasoning for a different flavor profile. Experimenting with herbs and spices will give you a variety of tasty options.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but you may need to increase the cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! These chicken bites store well and can be made in bulk for easy meals throughout the week.

Q: Can I use a different cooking method if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken bites in an oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.