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In the realm of culinary delights, few things are as satisfying as a perfectly cooked chicken bite—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Enter the Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites, a dish that effortlessly combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan with the delightful crunch of air frying. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying, without sacrificing taste or texture. Perfect for game day snacks, appetizers, or a family-friendly dinner, these chicken bites are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Craving something delicious and crispy? Try these Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites! This easy recipe combines tender chicken with the savory flavors of garlic and Parmesan, all while being health-conscious. Perfect for game days, parties, or family dinners, these bites offer a satisfying crunch with minimal oil. They're a fantastic treat that both kids and adults will love. Get ready to impress everyone with this flavorful dish!

Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (choose panko for extra crunch or regular for a classic touch)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 teaspoon)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 large egg, beaten

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for brushing)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces with the minced garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated with the spice mixture.

    Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare a breading station by placing the beaten egg in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

      Bread the Chicken: Take each marinated chicken piece and dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure that the breadcrumbs adhere well and form a nice coating.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

          Arrange Chicken in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken bites in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren't overcrowded to allow for even cooking. You may need to work in batches depending on your air fryer capacity.

            Cook the Chicken Bites: Air fry the chicken bites at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or gently flip the bites for even crisping. The chicken is done when the bites are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

              Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve these delightful bites immediately with your favorite dipping sauces—marinara, ranch, or a zesty garlic aioli work well.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 25 mins | Serves 4

                  Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving the chicken bites on a wooden board lined with parchment paper, accompanied by small bowls of dipping sauces. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top adds a vibrant touch!