Short Description
Oven-baked chicken bites are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, featuring bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a delicious seasoning blend and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a main dish, snack, or meal prep, these chicken bites are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and healthier than frying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Healthier than frying – No deep-frying needed for crispy, juicy bites.
- Versatile – Great for meal prep, salads, wraps, or dipping.
- Family-friendly – A perfect meal or snack for kids and adults.
- Customizable – Use different seasonings and sauces for variety.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika (smoked or regular)
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Directions
- Preheat the oven – Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the chicken – Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken – In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add Parmesan if using.
- Arrange on a baking sheet – Spread the chicken pieces in a single layer for even cooking.
- Bake – Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Broil for extra crispiness – Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden, crispy texture.
- Serve and enjoy – Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or add to salads, wraps, or rice bowls.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy version – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning.
- Lemon herb – Mix in lemon zest and fresh parsley for a zesty twist.
- BBQ style – Toss in BBQ sauce before serving.
- Asian-inspired – Coat with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Cheesy bites – Top with shredded mozzarella during the last few minutes of baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or air-fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier and more flavorful.
How do I make these extra crispy?
Broil for a few minutes at the end or use panko breadcrumbs in the seasoning.
Can I air-fry these chicken bites?
Yes! Air-fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli work great!
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes! Marinate in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for extra flavor.
Are these good for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well and can be used in multiple meals.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just check your seasonings and use gluten-free Parmesan if needed.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (75°C).
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Yes! Toss the chicken in panko before baking for a crispy texture.
What can I serve these with?
Serve with roasted veggies, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
Oven-baked chicken bites are a simple, flavorful, and healthier alternative to fried chicken nuggets. Whether as a main dish, meal prep option, or snack, these crispy, juicy bites are sure to be a favorite. Try them today for an easy and delicious meal!
PrintOven Baked Chicken Bites
These Oven Baked Chicken Bites are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Coated in a simple seasoning blend and baked to perfection, they make an easy, protein-packed meal or snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or add them to salads, rice bowls, or wraps for a quick and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes until well coated.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
- Spread the chicken bites evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Add Parmesan & Garnish
- If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the hot chicken bites right after baking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Crispier Chicken: Broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden, crispy exterior.
- Marinade Option: For extra juiciness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk or lemon juice for 30 minutes before baking.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.