Air Fryer Chicken Bites
Air Fryer Chicken Bites cook seasoned chicken breast pieces with Cajun spices, smoked paprika, and olive oil until the edges are golden and the centers stay juicy. They are a fast high-protein option for dinner bowls, wraps, salads, or meal prep.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Instant-read thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt adjust if Cajun seasoning is salty
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into even 1-inch pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Toss chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, optional sugar, salt, smoked paprika, optional red pepper flakes, poultry seasoning, thyme, and parsley.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket, cooking in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the edges are golden.
- Check that the thickest piece reaches 165°F, then rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken bites in a flat layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes from the refrigerator or 7-9 minutes from frozen.
Air Fryer Tips: Keep the chicken in a single layer, preheat briefly, and shake halfway for even browning.
Extra Crispy Tips: Pat the chicken dry, use a light oil coating, and add 1-2 minutes only after checking the temperature.
Variations: Use chicken thighs, add garlic powder, finish with lemon, or reduce red pepper flakes for a milder batch.