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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of crispy chicken. Enter the Zesty Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites—an irresistible fusion of tangy lemon and crunchy goodness that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or as a standout appetizer at your next party. Its balance of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures makes these chicken bites a crowd favorite, ensuring that they will disappear from the table in no time.

Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites

Indulge in the delightful taste of Zesty Crispy Lemon Chicken Bites, the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This easy-to-make dish combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemon with a satisfying crunch, making it a crowd favorite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these juicy chicken bites will leave everyone craving more. Serve them with delicious dipping sauces or alongside fresh salads for a complete experience that captivates the senses.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

2 large eggs

1/4 cup milk

Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prep the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

    Set Up Breading Station: Create a breading station with three shallow dishes:

      - In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour.

        - In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

          - In the third dish, pour in the panko breadcrumbs.

            Bread the Chicken: Once marinated, take the chicken pieces out of the bowl. Dredge each piece first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well. Repeat with all chicken pieces until fully breaded.

              Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and brown nicely within seconds.

                Fry the Chicken Bites: Carefully add the breaded chicken bites to the hot oil in batches, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to gently flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. Once cooked, transfer the chicken bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

                  Serve: Arrange the crispy chicken bites on a serving platter, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra zesty touch, serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings

                      Presentation Tips: For an appealing display, serve the chicken bites in a large bowl or platter, sprinkle with additional parsley, and add colorful lemon wedges around the edges for a burst of color.