Air Fryer Chicken Bites No Breading: 22 Minutes of Joy

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Bites No Breading: 22 Minutes of Joy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 3, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: air fryer chicken bites no breading! Seriously, these little nuggets of joy are a game changer. They’re not just quick to whip up; they’re bursting with flavor and super healthy! I mean, who doesn’t love a delicious, crispy bite without the guilt? Using the air fryer means you get that satisfying crunch without all the oil, and the best part? You can have dinner on the table in just about 22 minutes!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, you can create a mouthwatering main dish that even the pickiest eaters will devour. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can toss them on a salad, pair them with some veggies, or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. Trust me, once you try these air fryer chicken bites, you’ll be hooked, and they’ll quickly become a go-to for busy nights or a fun family dinner!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple ingredients to make your air fryer chicken bites no breading. You’ll find they’re all pretty common items, making this recipe even easier!

1 pound chicken fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a deliciously seasoned chicken that’s juicy on the inside and perfectly cooked on the outside. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking – a little extra paprika for some kick never hurt anyone! And remember, fresh chicken fillet works best for that tender texture. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Bites No Breading

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, you need to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly inside. It only takes a few minutes, so don’t skip it! While the air fryer is heating up, you can get everything else ready.

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine your bite-sized chicken pieces with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. I like to use my hands to ensure every piece is well-coated – it’s a bit messy, but totally worth it! If you have a little time to spare, let the chicken marinate for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors really sink in and makes each bite even more delicious!

Cook the Chicken Bites

Once your chicken is seasoned and your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook! Place the chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding – it’s better to do this in batches if needed. Set the timer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, give the basket a good shake to ensure even cooking. When the time’s up, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken!

Serving Suggestions

These chicken bites are best served hot right out of the air fryer! You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Toss them on a fresh salad for a quick meal or serve them alongside some roasted veggies for a complete dinner. Trust me, they’ll be a hit!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition in these air fryer chicken bites no breading! Each serving packs a punch with around 220 calories, making it a fantastic option for a light yet satisfying meal. You’ll find about 10 grams of fat, with only 1.5 grams being saturated fat, which is great for heart health. Plus, these little bites are a protein powerhouse, delivering a whopping 30 grams per serving! And the best part? They contain zero carbs, making them perfect for low-carb diets.

Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you decide to tweak the seasonings or the type of oil. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in these flavorful bites while sticking to your healthy eating goals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 22 minutes from start to finish, these chicken bites are perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy Choice: No breading means fewer carbs and calories, making these bites a guilt-free option for any meal.
Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of spices ensures every bite is packed with flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, toss them on a salad, or serve with your favorite dips – the possibilities are endless!
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these tasty bites, making them a hit with the whole family!

Trust me, once you give them a try, you’ll be coming back for more. They really are a winner in my kitchen!

Tips for Success

Want to make your air fryer chicken bites no breading even better? Here are some pro tips that I swear by!

Adjust the Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to play with the spices! If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a more Mediterranean twist, try adding dried oregano or thyme.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken for up to an hour. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the chicken even juicier.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion powder can elevate the taste. If you have fresh garlic, mince a couple of cloves and mix them in for an extra punch!
Experiment with Dipping Sauces: Get creative with your dipping sauces! A yogurt-based dip can add a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken bites.

Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken bites every time. Happy cooking!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these delicious air fryer chicken bites no breading? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I hear!

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for the best results. Frozen chicken can release excess moisture during cooking, which might make your bites less crispy. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry first!

Q2: What other seasonings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with the seasonings! You can try adding Italian herbs, lemon pepper, or even a BBQ rub for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to keep the balance right!

Q3: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is super helpful for this! If you don’t have one, just cut into a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink inside.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can affect cooking time and crispiness. It’s better to cook in batches for that perfect texture!

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy goodness!

I hope this helps you create your perfect air fryer chicken bites no breading! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover air fryer chicken bites no breading is super easy! Just place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, which is great if you want to enjoy them later. Make sure they cool down a bit before sealing them up to avoid any sogginess!

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the air fryer again to keep that delightful crunch. Just preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and heat the chicken bites for about 4-5 minutes. This way, they’ll regain their crispy exterior and stay juicy inside. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overdo it – just heating for 30 seconds at a time should do the trick. Enjoy those tasty bites again!