Crispy Herb-Packed Oven Baked Chicken Bites

$- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for an extra crunch) - 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese - 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works wonderfully) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - 2 large eggs, beaten until frothy - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for a vibrant garnish) If you need a change, there are options to try. You can swap chicken for turkey. It works well too. Use whole wheat breadcrumbs if you want more fiber. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper to your spices. Choosing fresh chicken makes a big difference. Look for chicken that is pink and moist. Avoid any that looks dull or has dark spots. Smell is also key; fresh chicken should have no strong odor. If you can, buy from a trusted butcher or local farm. Always inspect the sell-by date. Fresh chicken should be used quickly for best taste. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, you need to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the chicken bites become crispy. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This paper keeps the bites from sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything blends well. This mixture creates a tasty coating. Take your chicken pieces and dip each one into the beaten eggs. Make sure each piece gets fully coated. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well. This step is key for a crunchy bite. Place the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each piece. This air helps them cook evenly. Bake for 15-20 minutes. You want them golden brown and crispy. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Enjoy the smell while they bake! To get your chicken bites super crispy, use panko breadcrumbs. They add great texture. Make sure to space them on the baking sheet. This helps hot air circulate. You can also mist them lightly with olive oil before baking. This extra step will help achieve a golden crust. Add a twist to the flavor by mixing in some spices. Try cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness. Fresh herbs can also elevate the taste. Use parsley or basil and mix them into the breadcrumb coating. These small changes make a big impact. One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. It can lead to soggy bites. Always keep space between each piece. Another mistake is not preheating the oven. This can affect cooking time and texture. Lastly, avoid skipping the egg wash. It helps the coating stick and ensures a crispy bite. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken bites. Consider using fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for an aromatic touch. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken bites to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture and enhances the overall texture. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix by adding spices like cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness. Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze leftovers in an airtight container. They reheat well in the oven for a quick snack or meal. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of your chicken bites easily. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture. This will give your bites a nice heat. If you love BBQ, mix BBQ sauce into the egg before dipping the chicken. Then, coat the chicken in a blend of breadcrumbs and smoked paprika for that sweet and smoky taste. You can make these bites even better by adding veggies. Try mixing in finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini with the breadcrumbs. This adds color and nutrients. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a fun twist. Just remember to adjust the baking time based on your new protein choice. Want a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. You can also make your own by grinding gluten-free crackers or oats. Check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy your crispy chicken bites! To keep your chicken bites fresh, store them in an airtight container. Let them cool down before sealing. This way, they won’t get soggy from steam. Leftovers can stay good in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. When you reheat chicken bites, use the oven if possible. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help them regain their crispiness. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re warm. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy. To freeze chicken bites, let them cool completely first. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You bake chicken bites for 15 to 20 minutes. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Check the chicken when it turns golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) for safety. Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it must be thawed first. This ensures even cooking and helps the coating stick well. Always thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for best results. These chicken bites pair well with many sides. Try serving them with marinara sauce or honey mustard for dipping. Fresh veggies or a light salad work great, too. You can also add some crispy fries or roasted potatoes. The best way to tell if the chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. When it reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s safe to eat. You can also cut into a piece; the meat should be white, not pink. Yes, you can prep the chicken bites ahead of time. Coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you're ready for a tasty treat. They stay crispy and delicious! This article covered the key elements for making tasty oven-baked chicken bites. We discussed the best ingredients and kitchen tips. You can achieve great texture with the right methods. Remember to experiment with flavor variations and keep your leftovers fresh. Use this guide to perfect your chicken bites, and you’ll impress everyone at the table. Keep these tips in mind for a fun cooking experience, and enjoy every bite!$

Crispy Herb-Packed Oven Baked Chicken Bites

Delicious and crunchy chicken bites coated with herbs and spices, baked to perfection.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for an extra crunch)
0.5 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten until frothy
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
to taste fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then stir in the olive oil.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
Arrange the breaded chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve in a rustic basket with dipping sauces for a delightful presentation.

Keyword appetizer, baked, chicken, crispy, herbs