These cheesy bacon-wrapped chicken bites are a tasty treat made in the air fryer! Crispy bacon hugs juicy chicken filled with gooey cheese, making every bite a delight!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I love serving these at parties; they disappear faster than you can say “yum!” Perfect for sharing or just for me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The main protein here, chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly in the air fryer. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, consider Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese, but note that the flavor may differ.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar works best, but you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for added flavor. Just be cautious of the melting consistency!
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor of regular bacon, but turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be good substitutes for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Breadcrumbs: If you want extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or crushed rice cereal can do the trick!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken cooked just right can be tricky. Here’s how to make sure it’s delicious and safe to eat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Cooking times may vary based on size, so cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Arrange the bites in a single layer; this allows hot air to circulate and cook the chicken evenly.
- Flip the bites halfway through cooking. This helps the bacon get crispy all over!
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites (Air Fryer)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
For Coating (Optional):
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus 12-15 minutes in the air fryer. So, you’ll be savoring these cheesy bites in around 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken bites cook evenly and get that nice crispy bacon texture.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s all well blended and creamy. This cheesy mixture will add delicious flavor to your chicken bites!
3. Assemble the Chicken Bites:
Take a piece of chicken and scoop about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture onto it. Roll the chicken around the cheese to completely enclose it. Don’t worry if it gets a bit messy; that just means it will be extra cheesy!
4. Wrap in Bacon:
Now, take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken piece. If you think they need a little extra security, you can use a toothpick to keep the bacon in place. If you want an extra crunch, you can also roll the bacon-wrapped chicken bites in flour and then breadcrumbs.
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Lay the bacon-wrapped chicken bites in a single layer, ensuring they have a little space between them for even cooking.
6. Air Fry the Bites:
Air fry the chicken bites for about 12-15 minutes. The bacon should be crispy, and the chicken should be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remember to flip the bites halfway through the cooking time to get crispy bacon on both sides!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheesy filling to set a bit—making them perfect for enjoying!
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option or use other melty cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack to change up the flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese mixture is thick enough to hold its shape in the chicken.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Cooks Through?
To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If the bacon isn’t crispy yet, you can put the bites back in for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken bites earlier in the day or even the night before. Just assemble them and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. They may need an extra minute or two in the air fryer if they’re cold straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy again. You can also use the oven at the same temperature for a similar result.
