– **Title**: Best Baked Chicken Bites
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Cooking spray or olive oil, for greasing
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the spices.
3. Set up a dredging station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumb mixture in a third.
4. Take each piece of chicken, first coat it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat with all the chicken pieces.
5. Arrange the coated chicken bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. You can flip the bites halfway through for even cooking.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your baked chicken bites with your favorite dipping sauce!
This recipe results in tender, flavorful chicken bites that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them perfect for appetizers or snacks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they’re lean and cook quickly. If you want something juicier, try chicken thighs instead. They stay moist, especially in baked dishes.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works great too. It’s high-heat friendly and has a mild taste.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder add depth, while smoked paprika brings a lovely smoky flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat.
Chicken Broth: This is used for moisture and flavor. Vegetable broth is a perfect substitute if you prefer a non-meat option. Water is okay in a pinch, but broth adds more taste.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Bites Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy and flavorful chicken bites is all about marinating and proper cooking. First, make sure to coat the chicken pieces well with the marinade. This allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.
- Mix the marinade ingredients well and toss in the chicken until well coated.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer in your baking dish for even cooking.
- Baking with chicken broth helps keep the chicken moist. Don’t skip this step!
- Stir halfway through baking to promote even cooking, and check for doneness.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender when you serve it.
Best Baked Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a large baking dish or an oven-safe pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to create a nice marinade that’ll flavor your chicken bits.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around until they are well coated on all sides. You want every piece to soak up all that delicious flavor!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully transfer the marinated chicken bites to your greased baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking. This will help them bake perfectly without getting soggy.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken bites. Make sure the broth is just enough to slightly submerge the chicken pieces. This will keep them moist as they bake!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Check on them halfway through and give them a stir to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and cooked through!
7. Let it Rest and Garnish:
Once you take the chicken out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all the juices inside. Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your baked chicken bites can be served as a tasty appetizer or enjoyed with your favorite side dishes for a full meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking. For best results, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the quick method: place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
Can I Substitute the Olive Oil?
Absolutely! You can use any neutral-flavored oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a unique twist.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you find they’ve dried out a bit, add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
What Can I Serve with Baked Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauces. They’re also great with rice or on a bed of quinoa for a tasty meal!
