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Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Bites – Crispy, Juicy, and Ready Fast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25–1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (the finely grated kind works best for coating)
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce if your Parmesan is very salty)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more spray for the basket)
  • Optional add-ins: pinch of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, or lemon zest
  • For serving: marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or a squeeze of lemon

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Cut into even, 1-inch pieces so they cook at the same rate.
  2. Make the coating. In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the olive oil to help the coating brown evenly.
  3. Beat the eggs. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. This helps the coating stick without needing flour.
  4. Coat the pieces. Dip the chicken in the egg, letting excess drip off. Press each piece into the Parmesan mixture to fully coat. Set on a plate.
  5. Preheat the air fryer. Heat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket to prevent sticking.
  6. Arrange in a single layer. Place coated chicken bites in the basket without crowding. Work in batches if needed. Lightly mist the tops with oil spray.
  7. Air fry. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the bites halfway through. They’re done when crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Rest briefly. Let the bites sit for 2 minutes to lock in juices and firm up the crust.
  9. Serve. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if you like. Serve with your favorite dip or a squeeze of lemon.