15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites: Irresistible Joy

Name: 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites: Irresistible Joy
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 8 slices bacon, cut in half; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 22, 2025

15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, if you haven’t jumped on the air fryer bandwagon yet, you’re missing out! Seriously, these little kitchen wonders make cooking so much faster and easier, and I can’t help but share my newest obsession – 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites. These bites are not just quick to whip up; they are packed with flavor, super juicy, and wrapped in crispy bacon. What’s not to love?

Every time I make these for a gathering, they vanish faster than I can say “bacon!” They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for game day, a casual get-together, or even just a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. Plus, they come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Trust me, once you try these bacon-wrapped delights, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can make them again. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather all the essentials for these mouthwatering 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy wrapping and even cooking. I love using fresh chicken for the juiciest results!
8 slices bacon: Cut in half. This gives you just the right amount to wrap around each chicken piece, adding that crunchy, smoky goodness we crave.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for that savory flavor. It elevates the chicken and complements the bacon perfectly!
1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the bites. I often use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor!
Salt and pepper: To taste. These simple seasonings are key to bringing all the flavors together. Don’t skip this part!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress! Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go. It makes the cooking process so much smoother!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delightful 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites! I promise, following these steps will lead you to crispy, flavorful perfection in no time.

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken bites cook evenly and the bacon gets that deliciously crispy texture we all love. Just a few minutes of preheating makes a world of difference!

Season the Chicken

Now, grab your bite-sized chicken pieces and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle on that teaspoon of garlic powder, the paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Give it a good toss so every piece is evenly coated. Trust me, the seasoning is what brings these bites to life!

Wrap the Chicken with Bacon

Next, it’s time to wrap! Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken piece, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible. You want that bacon to hug every bit of chicken tightly! Secure it with a toothpick if needed, but I find the bacon usually holds up just fine during cooking.

Cook in the Air Fryer

Place your bacon-wrapped chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This ensures they crisp up nicely. Set your timer for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking and check for doneness. The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If they need a little more time, don’t hesitate to pop them back in for a minute or two!

Serve and Enjoy

Once they’re done cooking, carefully remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch everyone dive in! These bites are perfect as appetizers or even a fun snack!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Each serving of these scrumptious 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites is estimated to pack in about 250 calories. You’ll also get around 15 grams of fat, which includes 4 grams of saturated fat—just enough to keep things deliciously rich without going overboard!

On the protein front, you’re looking at approximately 25 grams, making these bites a satisfying option for your hunger. With just 1 gram of carbohydrates and 0 grams of sugar, they fit nicely into a low-carb diet. Of course, keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. But trust me, they’re a tasty addition to your table!

Tips for Success

To nail these 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites, keep a couple of pro tips in mind! First, adjust the cooking time based on the size of your chicken pieces. If they’re larger, you might need an extra minute or two to ensure they cook through. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each piece some space to allow that crispy magic to happen.

Another trick? Consider using thick-cut bacon for an even heartier bite! It can hold up better during cooking, adding more flavor to each piece. And lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings or marinades on the chicken for a fun twist!

Variations

Now, let’s get creative with these 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites! There are so many fun variations you can try to make this recipe your own. For starters, swap out the spices! Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or some Italian seasoning for a herby twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even brush the bacon with a little maple syrup or honey before wrapping for a sweet-savory combo!

Want to sneak in some veggies? You can add small pieces of bell pepper or jalapeño inside the bacon wrap for an extra crunch and flavor boost. Just make sure they’re cut small enough to cook through in the same time as the chicken. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! To store your 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites, simply let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together.

When it’s time to enjoy those tasty bites again, the air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the chicken bites for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the bacon gets crispy again. You’ll be back in bacon heaven in no time!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken breast for the 15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites. Frozen chicken can be a bit tricky because it needs to be completely thawed and patted dry before seasoning and wrapping. Otherwise, you might end up with uneven cooking.

Q2: What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving these chicken bites with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard. You could even whip up a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like a kick! Choose your favorite to complement the savory bacon.

Q3: How can I make these bites even more flavorful?
Try marinating the chicken pieces in your favorite marinade for a few hours before wrapping them in bacon. Teriyaki or a simple lemon garlic marinade works wonders! This adds an extra layer of flavor that takes these bites to the next level.

Q4: Can I prepare the chicken bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season and wrap the chicken in bacon a few hours before cooking. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to pop them in the air fryer. This way, they’re ready to go when you are!

Q5: What’s the best way to know when they’re done cooking?
The best way to check doneness is to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Also, the bacon should be crispy and golden brown, which is a great visual indicator!

15-Minute Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites - detail 1