Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites are a fantastic choice for a quick meal or snack. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare with simple ingredients. The air fryer gives them a crispy texture without all the oil used in traditional frying. Plus, the bright flavor of lemon adds a refreshing twist that elevates the dish.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for marinade)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (for enhanced flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Stir until the chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites
Serve your lemon chicken bites hot with lemon wedges on the side. They pair great with a fresh salad, rice, or even as a tasty appetizer for your next gathering. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or garlic aioli for extra flavor.
How to Store Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites
Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving to regain their crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites
- For extra crunch, you can coat the chicken bites in breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are of similar size for even cooking.
- Add your favorite herbs or spices to the marinade for a personalized flavor.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by adding different spices or trying other citrus fruits like lime or orange in the marinade. You can also substitute chicken with turkey or tofu for a different twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking.
How long do I cook the chicken bites in the air fryer?
Typically, they take about 10-12 minutes at 400°F, but cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model.
Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and keep it in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Just cook them fresh in the air fryer when you’re ready to serve.
Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and stir until the chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the marinated chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- The chicken is done when golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.