Discover the Best Baked Chicken Bites Recipe for Your Next Gathering!

When it comes to quick and easy recipes that satisfy everyone’s cravings, Baked Chicken Bites are a true crowd-pleaser. These juicy chicken morsels, coated in a crispy panko and Parmesan breading, are the perfect solution for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or anytime you need a delicious finger food. Healthier than their fried counterparts, these baked chicken bites offer all the crunch and flavor without the guilt.

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Ingredients for Perfectly Baked Chicken Bites

To create these irresistible baked chicken bites, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. The key is to balance the savory chicken with a flavorful coating that turns golden brown in the oven.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show, providing a lean protein that’s easy to cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of this healthy fat helps the chicken bites brown and crisp up in the oven.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika: These spices add depth of flavor and a touch of warmth to the chicken.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Providing an extra-crispy coating that can’t be achieved with regular breadcrumbs.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding a savory, nutty element to the breading.
• Fresh Parsley: For a bright, herbaceous finish.
• Cooking Spray: Lightly coating the bites helps them crisp up in the oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Crispy Chicken Bites

Making baked chicken bites is incredibly easy, with just a few simple steps to follow. Let’s dive in!

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Place the chicken in a bowl and toss it with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until the pieces are well coated.
3. Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir to blend the ingredients together.
4. Coat the Chicken: One by one, dip the chicken pieces into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere. Arrange the coated baked chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to Perfection: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken bites with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the bites halfway through, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through.

Tips for Achieving Crispy, Flavorful Baked Chicken Bites

To ensure your baked chicken bites turn out perfectly crispy and delicious, keep these tips in mind:

• Evenly Sized Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized cubes so they cook at the same rate.
• Generous Coating: Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, crunchy exterior.
• Cooking Spray: Lightly misting the coated chicken bites with cooking spray before baking helps them achieve that irresistible crispiness.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken Bites

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving these baked chicken bites. They make a fantastic appetizer or snack, perfect for game days, parties, or movie nights. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, barbecue, honey mustard, or blue cheese.

For a more substantial meal, baked chicken bites can be incorporated into salads, wraps, or bowls. Try pairing them with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette for a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Nutritional Information for Baked Chicken Bites

One of the best things about baked chicken bites is that they’re a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Each serving (approximately 4-5 bites) contains:

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 9g

The combination of lean chicken, crunchy panko, and a light coating of oil and cheese provides a nutritious and satisfying snack or meal. Plus, the baked preparation means you can enjoy the delicious flavor without the added grease and calories of frying.

FAQ About Baked Chicken Bites

How do you know when chicken bites are done?

The key to perfectly cooked baked chicken bites is to monitor their internal temperature. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The bites should also be golden brown and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

How long to oven cook chicken bites?

In a 400°F (200°C) oven, baked chicken bites generally take 20-25 minutes to cook through. Be sure to flip the bites halfway during the baking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.

What temperature do chicken bites need to be?

For food safety, baked chicken bites should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before they’re considered fully cooked and safe to consume. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached this recommended temperature.

How to know when chicken nibbles are cooked?

In addition to checking the internal temperature, you can tell when baked chicken bites are fully cooked by their appearance. The breading should be golden brown and crispy, and the chicken should no longer be pink in the center. The juices should also run clear when you cut into a piece.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Bacon Chicken Bites
• Crispy Popcorn Chicken
• Sticky Honey Chicken

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, these flavor-packed bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering. By baking instead of frying, you can enjoy the delicious crunch without the added guilt. So, preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to serve up a batch of these irresistible baked chicken bites. Your friends and family will be begging for more!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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