Baked Chicken Bites
When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, nothing beats Baked Chicken Bites. I remember the first time I made these for a casual get-together with friends. The aroma of the chicken baking in the oven filled the house, drawing everyone in from the living room. As the bites emerged, golden-brown and crispy, they disappeared almost as quickly as I could plate them. These delightful morsels are perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends, and they never fail to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, Baked Chicken Bites quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I’m sure they will in yours too!
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
5 mins
15 mins
Easy
250 kcal
29 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
14 g
Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet
Why You Need This Baked Chicken Bites
Flavorful Simplicity
What I adore about Baked Chicken Bites is how straightforward they are. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of spices and the tender chicken come together beautifully, making every bite a delicious experience.
Versatility
You can customize Baked Chicken Bites to suit your taste buds. Want to spice things up? Add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. Prefer a milder flavor? Stick with the classic seasoning. You can even experiment with dipping sauces for added fun!
Kid-Friendly
If you have little ones at home, they’ll love these bites! The fun, bite-sized pieces are perfect for tiny hands, and the taste is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Serve them with a side of veggies or a salad for a balanced meal.
Quick and Easy
We all have those busy days when cooking feels like a chore. Baked Chicken Bites come to the rescue! They require minimal prep and cook quickly, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
Great for Meal Prep
These bites are not only delicious fresh out of the oven but also make for fantastic leftovers. You can prepare a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them throughout. They’re perfect for salads, wraps, or just as a tasty snack!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game-day snack, or just need a quick dinner solution, Baked Chicken Bites fit the bill. They’re a crowd-pleaser and can adapt to any setting.
Baked Chicken Bites Ingredients
When it comes to making Baked Chicken Bites, the selection of ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect texture and flavor. Each element plays a role in creating something wonderful. The tenderness of the chicken pairs beautifully with the spices, while the butter adds a rich flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 pound chicken breasts, boneless and skinless: The star of the dish ensuring juicy, tender bites that are easy to prepare.
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil: This helps the chicken crisp up beautifully in the oven while adding healthy fats.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick, balancing the flavors nicely.
- ¼ teaspoon paprika: This spice not only adds color but also a smoky richness to the bites.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A must for depth of flavor, giving the bites a delicious aroma.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend adds an herby freshness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 2 Tablespoons butter, diced: Placed on top, it melts into the chicken, infusing it with richness.
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and brightness when serving.
Making This Baked Chicken Bites
Creating Baked Chicken Bites is truly a delightful experience. Follow these steps to ensure your bites come out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!
Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F. While it’s heating, grab a 9×13 baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial to ensure your chicken comes out easily.
Chop Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and chop them into 1 inch cubes. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and ensures that each piece gets nicely coated in seasoning. Move the chopped chicken to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Add seasonings and oil: Now it’s time to season! Add 1 Tablespoon of olive oil to the bowl, followed by 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and the spices adhere well.
Bake: Transfer the seasoned chicken into your prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s spread out evenly for even cooking. Place 2 Tablespoons of diced butter on top of the chicken. This will melt during baking, adding incredible flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the color; you want them beautifully golden and cooked through.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooking Temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps the chicken cook evenly and gets that crispy texture on the outside.
- Meat Quality: Choosing high-quality, fresh chicken will enhance the flavor and texture of your bites significantly.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning based on your personal taste preferences. More spice for heat, or less for a milder flavor!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to try with your Baked Chicken Bites. You can mix them up to suit your taste or occasion!
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they cool down completely before sealing.
- Freezing: Freeze any leftover Baked Chicken Bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair well with dips like ranch or honey mustard.
- Cooking Method: If you want to try making these in an air fryer, reduce the cook time to about 10 to 12 minutes at 400°F for ultra-crispy bites.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spice blends like taco seasoning or lemon pepper for a unique twist.
- Serving Style: Serve them as appetizers with toothpicks for easy eating at parties!
What to Serve Alongside Baked Chicken Bites
- Fresh Salads: Pair your Baked Chicken Bites with a refreshing garden salad or a Caesar salad for a light and healthy meal.
- Starches: Serve with sides like roasted potatoes or a creamy pasta for a hearty combination that everyone will love.
- Dips: Consider offering a variety of dips like barbecue sauce, ranch, or a zesty salsa to enhance the flavor experience.
- Occasions: These bites are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinner parties. They can easily be a crowd favorite at any event.
- Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve with grilled veggies or corn on the cob, while in winter, consider hearty side dishes like mashed potatoes or winter salads.
- Meal Prep: These bites are great for meal prep. Make a batch at the beginning of the week for easy lunches or dinners.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Baked Chicken Bites offer a delicious and simple way to enjoy a satisfying meal. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them a favorite for both casual dining and special occasions. I encourage you to try making them tonight; they’re sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe repertoire!
Baked Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F. While it’s heating, grab a 9×13 baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is crucial to ensure your chicken comes out easily.
- Chop Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and chop them into 1 inch cubes. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and ensures that each piece gets nicely coated in seasoning. Move the chopped chicken to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Add seasonings and oil: Now it’s time to season! Add 1 Tablespoon of olive oil to the bowl, followed by 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and the spices adhere well.
- Bake: Transfer the seasoned chicken into your prepared baking dish. Ensure it’s spread out evenly for even cooking. Place 2 Tablespoons of diced butter on top of the chicken. This will melt during baking, adding incredible flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the color; you want them beautifully golden and cooked through.
