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If you’ve been searching for a delightful, fuss-free meal that packs flavor and satisfaction in every bite, then look no further. This Baked Chicken Bites Recipe is an absolute game-changer for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, delivering tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a perfect blend of seasonings that create an irresistible crispy exterior. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to dishes — it’s simple, tasty, and made entirely in the oven, offering a healthier alternative to frying without sacrificing any of the fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things straightforward, this Baked Chicken Bites Recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that each serve a distinct purpose. From building bold flavors to ensuring perfectly juicy chicken, every item is carefully chosen for maximum impact without any unnecessary extras.
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein and tender texture when cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 Tbsp chicken base: Adds a depth of rich, savory flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps coat the chicken for moisture and aids in browning during baking.
- 1 tsp paprika: Provides a mild smoky flavor and a lovely reddish color to brighten the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity without overpowering the chicken.
- 2 tsp garlic herb seasoning: A flavorful blend that elevates the taste with aromatic herbs and a garlicky punch.
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper: Just the right amount of heat to add excitement without overwhelming the palate.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): The basic seasoning duo that enhances and balances all other flavors.
How to Make Baked Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400ºF, ensuring it’s nice and hot so your chicken bites cook evenly and develop a tempting golden exterior. This step sets the tone for perfectly baked chicken every time.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Next, take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes. This size is ideal for quick cooking and makes each bite perfectly manageable. Placing the chunks in a large bowl now keeps it easy to toss with your seasonings in the next step.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Here’s where all the magic happens — add the chicken base, olive oil, paprika, onion powder, garlic herb seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything well so each piece is evenly coated. This ensures a balanced burst of flavor in every single bite.
Step 4: Arrange for Baking
Spread the coated chicken pieces out evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Keeping the pieces in a single layer helps them cook uniformly and develop a lovely texture. It’s important they aren’t crowded so they crisp up instead of steaming.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken for 16 to 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF, making sure the bites are thoroughly cooked but remain juicy. When they come out of the oven, toss with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh parsley adds a pop of green and subtle herby brightness, you can also experiment with a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest or sprinkle on some finely grated Parmesan to make those chicken bites even more indulgent. Garnishes aren’t just pretty—they can elevate the flavor and add personality to your plate.
Side Dishes
These baked chicken bites are versatile enough to pair beautifully with crisp salads, fluffy rice pilafs, or buttery mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed veggies or a tangy slaw that contrasts sensationally with the warmth and spice of the chicken. The combinations are endless and always delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving at a party or want to jazz up your meal, try skewering the chicken bites for easy grab-and-go finger food. You can also turn them into a loaded wrap or toss them into a grain bowl with colorful veggies and your favorite dressing to make a hearty, flavorful lunch that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover baked chicken bites into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick meals or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, spread the cooked chicken bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before placing them into a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent clumping so you can grab just what you need. They freeze well for up to 2 months without losing their delicious taste or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the chicken bites in the oven or air fryer at 350ºF for about 8 to 10 minutes to refresh their crispy exterior and warm them evenly. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic option to add even more juiciness and flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same seasoning and baking instructions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Baked Chicken Bites Recipe uses natural spices and olive oil with no added gluten-containing ingredients, making it suitable for a gluten-free diet as long as your seasonings are gluten-free.
How spicy is the cayenne pepper in this recipe?
The amount of cayenne pepper is quite modest, adding just a gentle heat that complements the other seasonings without overwhelming the dish. Feel free to adjust it to your spice preference.
Can I marinate the chicken before baking?
Certainly! While the recipe works beautifully with a simple toss and bake approach, marinating for 30 minutes or longer can deepen the flavors and make the chicken even more tender.
What’s the best way to tell when the chicken bites are done?
The safest and most accurate method is to use a meat thermometer; the chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. This ensures juicy and safe-to-eat bites every time.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Bites Recipe is an absolute keeper in my kitchen, bringing together easy prep, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients in a way that just makes you want to eat more. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how effortlessly tasty homemade chicken bites can be. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, these bites will always hit the spot.
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Baked Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Chicken Bites are a flavorful and healthy snack or meal option, featuring tender, perfectly seasoned chicken cubes baked to juicy perfection with a blend of spices and herbs. Quick to prepare and ideal for serving with your favorite dipping sauces, they make a perfect protein-packed treat for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 Tbsp chicken base
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp garlic herb seasoning
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the chicken bites evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes for bite-sized pieces, then place them into a large mixing bowl to make seasoning easier.
- Season the Chicken: Add the chicken base, olive oil, paprika, onion powder, garlic herb seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with chicken pieces. Toss thoroughly to ensure every cube is well coated with the flavorful seasoning mix.
- Arrange for Baking: Spread the seasoned chicken cubes evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they are in a single layer so they cook uniformly.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken bites in the preheated oven for 16-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC), confirming they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- For extra crispy bites, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ for added flavor.
- Chicken base adds a boost of savory flavor but can be substituted with chicken bouillon powder if unavailable.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference or omit for a milder taste.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking.
