Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

$Here’s what you need for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites: - 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) - 2 tablespoons garlic powder - 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 large eggs - 1/4 cup fresh parsley (for garnish) - Olive oil spray Gathering these ingredients is easy. First, get chicken breasts. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Next, grab some grated Parmesan cheese for that rich, cheesy flavor. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. For flavor, we need garlic powder and dried Italian herbs. The herbs bring a nice mix of flavors. If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes. Don’t forget salt and pepper to season. You also need eggs. They help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Finally, fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Olive oil spray helps crisp the bites as they bake. With these ingredients, you are ready to make a tasty dish that everyone will love! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat makes the chicken bites cook nice and crispy. While it warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This step helps with easy cleanup and keeps the chicken from sticking. In a medium bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it looks uniform. This mixture will give your chicken bites a tasty, crunchy coating. Next, take another bowl and beat the eggs until they are well mixed. Dip each chicken piece into the eggs. Let any extra egg drip off. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to make sure it sticks well. Place the coated chicken pieces on your baking sheet, leaving space between them for even cooking. Once your oven is ready, pop the baking sheet inside. Bake the chicken bites for 15 to 20 minutes. You want them to be fully cooked and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. The smell will drive you wild! After baking, take the chicken bites out of the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to eat. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice pop of color. For a fun twist, serve them with marinara sauce for dipping. To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They have a light and airy texture. This helps the chicken bites stay crispy. Make sure to spray a little olive oil on top before baking. This adds moisture and keeps them golden brown. Start with fresh, boneless chicken breasts. Cut them into even pieces for uniform cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step removes excess moisture and helps the coating stick better. Dip each piece in beaten eggs before coating. This ensures the breadcrumbs cling well. Bake the chicken bites at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for a golden color and make sure the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the inside temperature. It should reach 165°F for safety. If your bites are small, check them early to avoid overcooking. Pro Tips Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken bites in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before coating for deeper flavor. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add additional spices to cater to your heat preference. {{image_2}} If you like heat, add red pepper flakes. Use 1 teaspoon for a mild kick. For more heat, go for 1 tablespoon. You can also mix in some hot sauce into the egg wash. This adds a nice flavor and spice. Serve with a cool dip, like ranch, to balance the heat. You can change the herbs for a new taste. Try fresh rosemary or thyme for a bright flavor. Chopped fresh basil adds a sweet note. Mix herbs into the breadcrumb mix for more flavor. Fresh herbs bring a garden taste that shines. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Look for brands that match the texture of panko. You can also crush gluten-free crackers as a substitute. Serve with gluten-free sauces for dipping. These changes keep the dish tasty and friendly for everyone. To keep your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down first. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture. This helps keep the chicken bites crispy. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. When it's time to enjoy leftovers, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chicken bites on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until they are hot. This method keeps them crunchy. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. The bites may become soggy if microwaved too long. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place cooled chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They add extra flavor and moisture. Thighs have more fat, which makes them juicy. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces like the breasts. Cook times may vary slightly, so check for doneness. To ensure the chicken bites are cooked, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut a piece open. The meat should be white and juices should run clear. These bites pair well with many sides. Consider serving them with marinara sauce for dipping. You can also add a fresh salad or roasted veggies. For a tasty touch, serve with garlic bread or creamy mashed potatoes. Yes, an air fryer works great for this recipe! Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the chicken bites in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This gives a nice crispy texture. We explored a tasty way to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps for preparation, and helpful tips for success. I shared fun variations and storage ideas to make this dish last longer. Remember, making these bites is simple, and you can adjust them to fit your taste. Enjoy creating this yummy treat!$

Crispy and flavorful chicken bites coated in garlic and Parmesan, perfect for a snack or appetizer.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
to taste Salt and pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
as needed Olive oil spray

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture evenly, pressing gently to adhere.
Place the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken bites with olive oil spray to promote crispiness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color.

Notes

Serve with marinara sauce for dipping and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.

Keyword appetizer, bites, chicken, garlic, Parmesan