Get ready for some tasty Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites! These little pieces of chicken are coated in a mix of crispy breadcrumbs and flavorful herbs. They are perfect as a snack or appetizer!
Making these bites is a breeze—I just toss the chicken in the coating and bake them until golden brown. Trust me, they disappear fast at my gatherings! 🐔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for chicken breasts. For a juicier bite, thighs are the way to go! You can also use turkey if you want to switch it up.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light, crispy texture. If panko isn’t available, use regular breadcrumbs, but consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for richer flavor. If you’re in a bind, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free option if needed.
Herbs: I love using dried Italian herbs for convenience. If you have fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme, feel free to use them for even more flavor!
How Do You Ensure Crispy Chicken Bites?
Getting your chicken bites crispy is key, and there are a few tips to achieve this. First, make sure to coat them evenly, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. This helps them stick better.
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature and make sure it’s fully heated. A hot oven helps with browning.
- Drizzle or spray the coated chicken with olive oil or melted butter before baking. This enhances crispiness.
- Flip the bites halfway through cooking for even browning on both sides.
These little tricks can make a huge difference in your chicken bites, so don’t skip them! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for coating or drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy these tasty bites in just around 30 minutes. Perfect for when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken bites cook evenly and turn out nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken pieces.
3. Mix the Coating:
In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what makes the bites so flavorful!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take a piece of chicken and dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. Repeat this for all the chicken pieces.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they have some space between them for even cooking.
6. Add a Crisping Touch:
Lightly drizzle or spray the bites with olive oil or melted butter before baking. This little step makes them extra crispy!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken bites halfway through the cooking time to get both sides golden brown. They are ready when they are cooked through and crispy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy as a delightful appetizer or snack!
These Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or ranch. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add extra flavor to your bites. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make These Chicken Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness!
What Dips Pair Well with Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites?
These bites are delicious with various dips! Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a zesty garlic aioli are great choices to complement the flavors.