Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, look no further than these Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken pieces with a rich garlic butter sauce, giving you a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a small gathering, these bites will surely impress your family and friends.

Jump to Recipe

The air fryer elevates this dish even further by ensuring the chicken bites are perfectly cooked with a delightful crispy exterior while remaining succulent inside. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying, allowing you to enjoy all the flavor with less guilt! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a tasty meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into making these irresistible garlic butter chicken bites!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
1. Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them in the garlic butter mixture until well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak in all those yummy flavors.
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
1. Arrange the marinated chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
1. Cook the chicken bites for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they’re evenly crispy.
1. Once golden brown and cooked through, carefully remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter.
1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4

Key Ingredients

Chicken Bites: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Garlic Butter: 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, mixed with 3-4 cloves of minced garlic.
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon to help crisp up the chicken bites.
Seasonings:
1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed, for added flavor (optional).

Baking Process

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken bites to the bowl and toss until they are well coated in the garlic butter marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes. This step helps in achieving a nice crispy exterior on the chicken.
Arrange the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken bites in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Leave some space between the pieces to allow hot air to circulate for even cooking.
Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken bites at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or gently toss the chicken to ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Crisp the Outside: For an additional crispy finish, you can air fry the chicken for an extra 2-3 minutes if desired. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy: Serve the garlic butter chicken bites warm on their own, or with your favorite dipping sauce. They make for a great appetizer, snack, or a protein-packed addition to salads and grain bowls. Enjoy your deliciously crispy bites!

Serving Suggestions

These Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

With Fresh Salad: Serve the chicken bites atop a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing, light option. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette for an added zing.
Over Rice or Quinoa: Pair the chicken bites with fluffy jasmine rice or nutritious quinoa. Add steamed vegetables on the side for a complete meal that’s both filling and healthy.
In Tacos: Create delicious chicken tacos by placing the bites in small tortillas. Top with shredded cabbage, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a quick and tasty dinner.
With Dipping Sauces: Serve the chicken bites with an array of dipping sauces, such as ranch, garlic aioli, or a spicy chipotle sauce. This is perfect for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
As an Appetizer: Present them as a finger-food appetizer at parties. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
On a Skewers: For a fun twist, thread the garlic butter chicken bites onto skewers and serve with a side of tzatziki or yogurt-based sauce for dipping.
With Pasta: Toss the chicken bites with your favorite pasta and a light cream sauce or pesto for a hearty dinner option. Don’t forget some grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor!
In a Wrap: Spread some hummus or cream cheese on a tortilla, add the chicken bites, and include fresh veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Roll it up for a convenient lunch or snack.

With their flavorful garlic butter coating, these chicken bites are sure to please in any of these delightful serving styles. Enjoy your meal!

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also deliver a punch of flavor that is sure to satisfy any craving. With the perfect combination of buttery richness and garlicky goodness, this dish can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The air fryer ensures that the chicken bites remain juicy on the inside while achieving that coveted crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe is versatile and delicious. Plus, you’ll love how little cleanup is involved! Feel free to customize the spices and herbs to suit your taste—add a sprinkle of parmesan, toss in some fresh herbs or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Give these Garlic Butter Chicken Bites a try, and watch them disappear from the plate in no time! Enjoy your cooking and savor each delightful bite!