Description
Imagine a mouthwatering blend of crispy, juicy chicken bites infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and black pepper. These Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack for any occasion – from game days to backyard parties.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: (1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless) – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- All-Purpose Flour: (1 cup) – For the crispy coating base.
- Cornstarch: (1/4 cup) – For extra crispiness.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: (3 tablespoons) – Bright, zesty flavor.
- Garlic Powder: (1 tablespoon) – Savory depth.
- Onion Powder: (1 tablespoon) – Enhances overall flavor.
- Paprika: (1 teaspoon) – Adds warmth and color.
- Salt: (1 teaspoon, or to taste) – Enhances flavor.
- Black Pepper: (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste) – Adds spice.
- Eggs: (2 large) – Helps coating stick.
- Milk: (1/4 cup) – Lightens egg wash.
- Vegetable Oil (or Canola Oil) for frying: (3–4 cups) – For deep frying.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges (for serving): Optional – For a fresh finish.
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
3. Mix the Coating: In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, then dredge in the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
5. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry Until Golden: Fry the chicken bites in batches for 4–6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
7. Drain and Serve: Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with lemon wedges for squeezing.
Notes
These crispy lemon pepper chicken bites are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ. They also make a great addition to salads, wraps, or even as a topping for mac and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 150