Description
Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are packed with garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs. A quick, easy chicken recipe perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, snacks, or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Bites
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Lean chicken that cooks quickly and becomes tender inside the air fryer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the seasonings adhere and encourages golden browning.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds savory, nutty flavor and helps create a delicious crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Provides concentrated garlic flavor.
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced – Adds fresh, aromatic garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings together oregano, basil, thyme, and other herbs.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild warmth and beautiful color.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds extra savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild peppery flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional – Adds a subtle spicy kick.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- Freshly grated Parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh basil
- Lemon wedges
- Red pepper flakes
- Garlic butter
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Marinara sauce
- Honey mustard
- Creamy Parmesan dip
- Buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Parmesan, garlic powder, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken to the seasoning mixture.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket if needed.
- Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10–14 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
- Shake or turn the chicken halfway through cooking.
- Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cook for another 1–2 minutes if necessary.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan while hot.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for the best crispy texture.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer to help restore their crispness.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 14
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 390 calories
