Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites – Easy & Flavorful Recipe

If you love crispy, cheesy, and garlicky chicken, then these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are the perfect recipe for you! They are tender on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and coated in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that makes them simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

• Crispy & Crunchy: Coated in panko and Parmesan, these bites have the perfect crunch.
• Packed with Flavor: A combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning makes them incredibly tasty.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and everyday ingredients ensure hassle-free preparation.
• Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or a main dish with sides.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, they are a lighter alternative to fried chicken nuggets.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to coat evenly.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

1. Place flour in one bowl.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and then coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture.
5. Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

1. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the chicken bites.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

1. Transfer the baked chicken bites to a large bowl.
2. Pour the garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
3. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as-is!

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts and coats the chicken better than pre-packaged cheese.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even crisping.
• Customize the Flavor: Add more garlic powder or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as a substitute.
• Pair with Dips: Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for extra taste.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and may even be juicier than chicken breasts.

2. Can I make these chicken bites in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

4. Can I freeze these chicken bites?

Yes! Freeze them after baking for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warm and crispy.

5. What sides go well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?

Pair them with garlic bread, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness. Whether you make them for a quick dinner, game day snack, or meal prep, they are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this flavor-packed recipe is a must-try. Give them a go and enjoy restaurant-quality chicken bites at home!

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