These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are crispy on the outside and juicy inside, bursting with flavor! Coated in a tasty garlic and cheese mix, they’re perfect for snacking or as a party treat.
Honestly, I can’t resist these little bites. They vanish quickly in my house! Serve them with a dip, and watch everyone go for seconds—maybe even thirds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: The base of this dish is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You could use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano works well too. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free substitute for a cheesy taste.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for a crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will do. You can also crush crackers or even use crushed cornflakes for a unique twist!
Garlic: Garlic powder gives a mild garlic flavor, but fresh garlic ramps it up! You can swap garlic powder with granulated garlic in the same ratio.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite because of its rich flavor. You can use other oils, like avocado oil or vegetable oil, but they might have a lighter taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Bites Are Crispy and Delicious?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the right preparation and cooking methods. Whether you bake or pan-fry, here are my tips:
- Make sure your chicken is evenly coated in the breadcrumb mixture; this helps create a crunchy outer layer.
- If baking, use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Remember to turn the bites halfway for even cooking!
- For skillet cooking, don’t overcrowd the pan. This ensures that each piece gets enough heat to brown properly.
- Preheating your skillet with oil before adding the chicken also aids in that lovely golden crust.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook if you choose to bake them, or about 10-15 minutes on the stovetop. So, you will be enjoying these tasty bites in about 30-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
If you’re baking your chicken bites, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps get them nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to create your flavorful coating.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture. Toss them gently until all the chicken is evenly coated with the mix. Make sure every piece is covered in that cheesy goodness!
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it smells amazing—be careful not to burn it!
5. Cook the Chicken Bites:
Add the coated chicken bites to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked all the way through. If you prefer to bake, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through to get them evenly crispy!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the heat. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Enjoy these delicious garlic Parmesan chicken bites as an appetizer or a main dish! They are sure to impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your bites. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work too! However, for an extra crunch, consider crushing some crackers, cornflakes, or even using finely ground oats. Just be sure to keep the coating mixture evenly distributed for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can be a great idea! Just cut them into bite-sized pieces, toss them with the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything cooks through evenly.
