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Get ready for a tasty treat with my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites! These bites pack a punch of crispy goodness and rich flavor. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear. Whether you want a snack for game day or an appetizer for dinner, I’ll guide you through each step. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The garlic and Parmesan create a savory profile that elevates simple chicken bites into a gourmet treat.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe can be made in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adapt the seasonings or add other herbs to match your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These bites work well as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, and they pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
To make these tasty bites, you need some key items:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs, beaten until frothy
– 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
– 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
These ingredients create a perfect base for flavor and texture. The chicken is juicy, and the Panko adds a great crunch.
Essential Seasonings
Seasonings make the dish pop! Here are the must-have spices:
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
These spices enhance the chicken’s flavor. Garlic powder adds depth, while smoked paprika gives it a warm touch. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
Optional Garnishes and Dipping Sauces
Adding garnishes and sauces can elevate your dish. Here are some fun ideas:
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Marinara sauce for dipping
– Garlic aioli for a creamy touch
– Lemon wedges for a fresh zing
Garnishes like parsley add color and freshness. Dipping sauces bring a new level of flavor. Try different combinations to find your favorite!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast. Cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Next, measure out your flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place each in separate bowls for easy access. You will also need two large eggs. Beat them until they are fluffy. Finally, get your Panko breadcrumbs ready. They add a great crunch to the bites.
Dredging and Coating the Chicken
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. First, take your chicken pieces and dredge them in the seasoned flour. Make sure to shake off any extra flour. This step adds a nice base for the next layers. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs. Ensure each piece is fully coated, but let any excess egg drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to help the crumbs stick well. Each bite should be coated evenly for the best flavor.
Baking the Chicken Bites to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange your coated chicken bites on the sheet. Make sure to space them apart to allow for even cooking. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken bites for flavor and crunch. Bake them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be fully cooked. Once done, take them out and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To get that perfect crisp on your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites, follow these steps:
– Use Panko breadcrumbs. They add extra crunch.
– Make sure to coat each chicken piece well. Press the crumbs tightly.
– Drizzle olive oil evenly. This helps with browning and flavor.
– Space the chicken bites on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming.
Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that golden finish.
Flavor Enhancements and Substitutions
Want to boost flavor? Here are some great ideas:
– Add herbs like thyme or oregano to the flour mix.
– Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika for a milder taste.
– Use grated Parmesan cheese mixed with Romano for a sharper bite.
– Try different dipping sauces like spicy mayo or ranch. This adds more fun!
You can also use chicken thighs for juicier bites.
Serving Suggestions for Best Presentation
Presentation matters! Here’s how to serve your chicken bites:
– Place them on a nice platter.
– Garnish with chopped parsley for color.
– Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh touch.
– Pair with easy dipping sauces like marinara or garlic aioli.
This makes your dish look great and taste even better!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor of your chicken bites significantly. Always opt for freshly grated cheese for the best taste.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to modify the seasonings in the flour mixture to suit your taste. Adding herbs like oregano or thyme can bring a unique twist to the flavor profile.
- Crispier Texture: For an extra crispy texture, consider double coating the chicken. After the first coating of breadcrumbs, dip it back into the egg and then into the breadcrumbs again before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these chicken bites with a dipping sauce like ranch or buffalo sauce for added flavor. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish.

Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Want to add some heat? Just mix in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Use about 1/2 teaspoon for a mild kick. If you love spice, go for 1 teaspoon. This gives the chicken bites a nice balance of heat and flavor. You can still follow the same steps to coat the chicken. The result? A crispy, zesty treat that packs a punch.
Air Fryer Version for Healthier Cooking
The air fryer makes cooking easier and healthier. It uses hot air to give your chicken bites that crunch without too much oil. Just follow the same prep steps. Place the coated chicken in the air fryer in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for about 10 to 12 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking. You will still get that golden-brown look and delicious taste, but with less fat.
Vegetarian Adaptations with Cauliflower
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Just swap chicken for cauliflower. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Follow the same coating steps. The flour and Panko mix will still give you that perfect crunch. Bake or air fry the cauliflower until golden. This option is great for veggie lovers. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy a tasty twist on a classic!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container. Let them cool completely before sealing. This will stop any steam from making them soggy. Keep the container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing.
How to Reheat for Optimal Taste and Texture
To reheat your chicken bites, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help them stay crispy and warm. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option. Just heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites is simple. After cooking, let them cool. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can also freeze them before baking. Just coat the chicken, then freeze. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Enjoy your tasty bites anytime!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They add more flavor and stay juicy. Thighs are darker and richer in taste. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces like the breasts.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?
You can serve these bites with various sides. Here are some tasty ideas:
– Marinara sauce for dipping
– Garlic aioli for a creamy touch
– Lemon wedges for a zesty kick
– A fresh garden salad for crunch
– Steamed veggies for a healthy balance
How long do I bake the chicken for it to be cooked thoroughly?
Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F. This will make them safe to eat and perfectly cooked. Keep an eye on the color; they should be golden brown.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dish. You learned about tasty variations and how to store leftovers.
Remember, cooking should be fun. Experiment with flavors and enjoy every bite. With these tips, you can impress everyone at your next meal. Make these bites your new go-to recip
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Delicious bite-sized chicken pieces coated in garlic, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs, baked to crispy perfection.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten until frothy
- 0.25 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until combined.
In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are fluffy and well-beaten.
In a third bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until evenly distributed.
Take each piece of chicken and first dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated, and let any excess egg mixture drip off.
Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick well to the chicken.
Arrange the coated chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave enough space between each piece for even cooking.
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken bites for added flavor and to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and boasts a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Once baked, remove the chicken bites from the oven and pop them on a serving platter. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Serve with marinara or garlic aioli for dipping, and add lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Keyword appetizer, baked, chicken, garlic, parmesan
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