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A complete meal featuring vibrant high protein air fryer chicken bites served with a fresh green salad and a side of dipping sauce.

The 15-Minute High Protein Air Fryer Chicken Bites Your Family Will Adore!

These high protein air fryer chicken bites are a quick, healthy, and flavorful solution for busy weeknights, offering juicy, crispy chicken in under 15 minutes. They are incredibly easy to make, packed with protein, and versatile for various meals or snacks.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or high-heat cooking spray
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika smoked or sweet

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. If using chicken tenderloins, cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Season Generously: Place the chicken cubes in a medium bowl. Drizzle them with your chosen oil, ensuring all pieces are lightly coated. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss everything together well with your hands or a spoon to ensure every piece of chicken is evenly seasoned.
  3. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Turn on your air fryer and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Allow it to preheat for at least 3-5 minutes. (If using oven: Preheat to 410°F (210°C).)
  4. Arrange in a Single Layer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with a little more oil if needed. Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary. (For oven: Arrange seasoned chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.)
  5. Air Fry to Perfection: Place the basket back into the preheated air fryer. Cook for 7-9 minutes. Shake the basket vigorously halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through. (For oven: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.)
  6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. For food safety, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Let the bites rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken extra tender.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispy chicken. Always pat chicken dry before seasoning for best results. Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking and ensure juicy, tender chicken. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.