Oven-Baked Chicken Bites: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite!

Looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner idea or a tasty appetizer for your next gathering? Look no further than our Oven-Baked Chicken Bites recipe! These flavorful bites are juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with delicious seasonings that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this dish on the table in no time. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible Oven-Baked Chicken Bites!

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon paprika
a pinch of cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and set aside.

2. Season the Chicken:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings.

3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.

4. Add Butter:

Place a small cube of butter on top of each chicken piece. This will help keep the chicken moist and add richness to the flavor.

5. Bake in the Oven:

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the chicken bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Double-Batch for a Crowd: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and use multiple baking sheets if needed.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme, or spice things up with chili powder or smoked paprika.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for the flour coating to make this recipe gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.

Q: Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the seasoned chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let the chicken come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.

Q: What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken bites? A: These chicken bites are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces, including barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments to adapt this recipe:

Use Almond Flour: Replace the flour coating with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly option.
Skip the Butter: Omit the butter topping to reduce the fat content of the dish.

In conclusion, our Oven-Baked Chicken Bites are a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a tasty appetizer or enjoying them as a main course, these chicken bites are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they’re irresistibly delicious and incredibly easy to make. So, give this recipe a try and prepare to impress your taste buds with every bite!