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Air Fryer Chicken Bites (Air Fryer)

A close-up of golden brown, seasoned Air Fryer Chicken Bites piled high on a white plate.

Make crispy, flavorful chicken bites quickly using your air fryer. This recipe is simple and great for a fast family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ยฝ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ยฝ teaspoons cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
  • ยฝ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ยฝ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ยฝ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ยฝ teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • ยผ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ยผ teaspoon dried parsley flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat a 5-quart air fryer to 380ยฐF for 5 minutes.
  2. Cut 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  3. Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Add 1 Tablespoon olive oil and stir to coat the chicken.
  4. Add 1 1/2 teaspoons cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes. Stir until the chicken is fully coated in the spices.
  5. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick spray.
  6. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the basket in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  7. Cook for 7-11 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes or flipping the pieces with tongs for even cooking.
  8. The chicken bites are done when the internal temperature reaches at least 165ยฐF. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • The sugar balances the spices and adds a slight char similar to commercial nuggets.
  • Omit red pepper flakes if you prefer less spice. You can also reduce the amount of cajun seasoning by half.
  • You can substitute Creole seasoning for the cajun seasoning.
  • This recipe was tested in a standard basket air fryer; adjust cooking times based on your specific air fryer model.

Nutrition

Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken Bites, Air Fryer, Crispy Chicken, Fast Dinner, Family Friendly, Chicken Bites, Simple Cooking