# Air Fryer Chicken Bites

> To make crispy air fryer chicken bites, cut 500 g chicken breast into 2.5 cm pieces, dip in beaten egg, coat in seasoned panko and parmesan, spray lightly with oil and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and 74°C (165°F) inside.

Source: https://www.savourrecipes.com/recipe/air-fryer-chicken-bites
Author: Cookwithmrdots | Published: Jun 5, 2026 | Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Categories: Air Fryer Recipes, Chicken Recipes, Easy Dinner Recipes
Collections: Quick Weeknight Dinners, Meal Prep Recipes
Tags: Kid Friendly, High Protein, 30-Minute Meals, Meal Prep

Crunchy on the outside, juicy inside and ready faster than delivery. A quick dip in egg and a parmesan panko coating gives these chicken bites real crunch with just a light spray of oil.

## Key facts

- Prep time: 10 mins
- Cook time: 12 mins
- Total time: 22 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Method: Air frying
- Calories: 280 per serving

## Ingredients

- 500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup parmesan, finely grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- oil spray, avocado or canola
- honey mustard, ketchup or ranch, for dipping

## Equipment

- Air fryer
- 2 shallow bowls
- Oil spray bottle

## Instructions

1. **Set up the coating.** Beat the egg with the Dijon in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, mix the panko, parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt and pepper.
2. **Coat the chicken.** Toss the chicken pieces in the egg, letting the excess drip off, then roll them in the panko mixture and press so the crumbs stick.
3. **Air fry.** Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Spray the basket, add the chicken in a single layer and spray the tops with oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and 74°C (165°F) inside. Work in batches if needed.
4. **Serve.** Serve straight away with your favourite dipping sauces.

## Tips

- Cut the chicken into even pieces so every bite finishes cooking at the same time.
- A light spray of oil on top is what turns the panko golden; without it the crumbs stay pale.
- Keep cooked batches warm in a 90°C (200°F) oven while you finish the rest.

## Variations

- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites; add 1-2 minutes.
- Swap the paprika for 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
- Toss the cooked bites in buffalo sauce or honey garlic sauce.

## Storage

- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked bites on a tray, then bag them for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 4-5 minutes (8 minutes from frozen) to re-crisp.

## Nutrition per serving (estimate)

| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 280 | 34 g | 15 g | 8 g |

## Frequently asked questions

### How long do chicken bites take in the air fryer?

About 10-12 minutes at 200°C (400°F) for 2.5 cm pieces, shaking halfway. Always check that the largest piece reaches 74°C (165°F).

### How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Let excess egg drip off before coating, press the crumbs on firmly and do not move the bites for the first 5 minutes of cooking.

### Can I make chicken bites gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes labelled gluten-free, and check that your mustard and parmesan are gluten-free.

### Can I cook frozen chicken bites in the air fryer?

Yes. Cook homemade frozen bites at 190°C (375°F) for 14-16 minutes, shaking halfway, until hot and 74°C (165°F) in the centre.