Print

Print Recipe

Zesty, tender chicken bites cooked in an air fryer to a crispy golden perfection, featuring a bright lemony marinade with garlic and onion powder. Perfect as appetizers, in sliders, or over salads.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into a smooth marinade.
  2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat; cover and chill 15–30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
  4. Arrange marinated chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without crowding; cook in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove the chicken bites and let them rest 1–2 minutes.

Notes

Cut chicken pieces evenly to about 1 to 1½ inches for even cooking., Pat chicken dry before marinating to help marinade stick and improve crispness., Avoid over-marinating; 15–30 minutes is ideal to prevent mushy texture., Use fresh lemon zest for best citrus flavor., Do not crowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for crispiness., Shake basket halfway through cooking to brown evenly., Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness., Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption., Optional coating with seasoned panko or cornstarch can add extra crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mamapantry.com/air-fryer-lemon-chicken-bites-2/