Air Fryer Chicken Cubes: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try Them

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Cubes: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try Them
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken fillet, cubed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp 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.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Let me tell you, air fryer chicken cubes are a game changer! These little bites of chicken are not only tender and juicy but also super quick to whip up, making them perfect for any meal or snack. I love how the air fryer cooks them to perfection, giving you that crispy outside without all the oil. It’s become a staple in my house for simple meal prep. Whether I’m tossing them into a salad, serving them with rice, or just snacking on them as is, they never disappoint. Trust me, once you try these air fryer chicken cubes, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delicious air fryer chicken cubes. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken fillet, cubed into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
2 tbsp olive oil, this helps the spices stick and adds a nice richness
1 tsp garlic powder, for that lovely savory kick
1 tsp onion powder, it complements the garlic beautifully
1 tsp paprika, bringing a hint of smokiness and color
Salt and pepper to taste, don’t be shy with the seasoning!

These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful, juicy dish that everyone will love. Plus, feel free to get creative with your seasonings if you want to mix things up a bit!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Cubes

Getting your air fryer chicken cubes just right is a breeze when you follow these simple steps. I promise, it’ll be rewarding each time you whip them up!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately when you place it inside, sealing in all those juicy flavors!

Prepare the Chicken

Now it’s time to get your chicken ready! In a large mixing bowl, toss the 1 lb of cubed chicken fillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This step is key because it helps the spices stick and gives the chicken a nice richness. Next, add in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste! Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until the chicken is evenly coated with those delicious spices. It’s like a little flavor party!

Cook the Chicken

Once your chicken cubes are coated, it’s time to cook! Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer; this helps them cook evenly. Set your timer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, give the basket a shake to ensure they’re cooking evenly. When the timer goes off, check the chicken’s doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If it’s not there yet, pop it back in for a couple more minutes. Trust me, you want that juicy finish!

Rest and Serve

After cooking, let the chicken cubes rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite super tender! Serve them up as they are, or toss them into a salad, wrap, or alongside your favorite dipping sauce. You can’t go wrong with these tasty little bites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These air fryer chicken cubes come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Healthy Option: With minimal oil and packed with protein, they’re a healthier choice compared to traditional frying methods.
Versatile: Use them in salads, wraps, or as a stand-alone snack. You can even change up the seasonings to keep things exciting!
Kid-Friendly: These flavorful bites are a hit with kids and adults alike, making family meals a breeze.
Leftover Friendly: They store well in the fridge, so you can enjoy them for lunch the next day or toss them in a stir-fry.

Trust me, once you start whipping up these air fryer chicken cubes, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Tips for Success

To ensure your air fryer chicken cubes come out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I swear by:

Seasoning Adjustment: Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a fresh twist, try adding herbs like oregano or thyme.
Air Fryer Techniques: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give those chicken cubes some space to breathe; this helps them crisp up beautifully. If you have a lot to cook, do it in batches!
Shake It Up: Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and browning, so each cube gets that lovely, golden finish.
Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It’s the best way to guarantee juicy chicken without any guesswork!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the air fryer chicken cube master in no time!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of these delicious air fryer chicken cubes. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re working with:

Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 0g

As you can see, these chicken cubes are not only tasty but also a fantastic source of protein with minimal carbs. A great option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken cubes?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken cubes for this recipe, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Start by preheating the air fryer as usual, then cook the frozen chicken cubes for about 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Just make sure to check that they reach that essential internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. It’s a great way to have a quick meal ready even when you haven’t had time to thaw the chicken!

What dipping sauces pair well?

These air fryer chicken cubes are super versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces! Some of my favorites include:

Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy option that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky flavor that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ranch Dressing: A classic that’s creamy and delicious, especially for kids!
Sriracha Mayo: If you like it spicy, mix sriracha with mayonnaise for a zesty kick!

Feel free to get creative and mix your own sauces too!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your air fryer chicken cubes fresh, let them cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They should stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to separate them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your air fryer chicken cubes, the possibilities are endless! For a quick and satisfying meal, toss them over a bed of mixed greens for a vibrant salad. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, pair them with fluffy rice or quinoa, drizzled with a little extra olive oil and lemon juice for brightness. And don’t forget to set out your favorite dipping sauces on the side—whether it’s a creamy ranch or a zesty salsa, they’ll elevate your chicken cubes to a whole new level of deliciousness!