These Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites are crispy, tender, and super tasty! Coated in a blend of parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, they bring flavor to every bite.
Perfect for a snack or as a fun party appetizer, I can’t resist grabbing a few extra pieces when they come out of the oven. They disappear fast, so grab yours quickly! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender bites. You can also try chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Panko breadcrumbs: These give the bites their lovely crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but for extra crispiness, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy taste. Make sure to adjust salt levels if using it!
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs impart a lovely blend of flavors. If you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley on hand, feel free to use them instead for a fresher taste.
How Do I Get My Chicken Bites Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is all about the coating and cooking technique. Follow these tips to ensure your chicken bites are crispy every time:
- Make sure to use panko breadcrumbs—they’re lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken pieces firmly so they stick well.
- Cook in batches and avoid overcrowding the skillet; this allows for even cooking and helps achieve that golden brown exterior.
- Consider putting the cooked chicken on a wire rack after frying. This keeps them crispy on all sides instead of steaming on a plate!
How to Make Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried parsley, basil, oregano)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: melted butter or lemon juice for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a total of approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer when you’re pressed for time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This flavorful coating is what makes the chicken bites so delicious!
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re nice and smooth. This will help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken perfectly, giving you that crispy outer layer.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs stick well. Repeat until all the chicken pieces are coated.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before you add the chicken.
5. Cook the Chicken Bites:
Carefully add the coated chicken bites to the skillet in a single layer. If your skillet is small, it’s better to cook them in batches. Fry the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (you can check the internal temperature—aim for 165°F / 74°C!).
6. Drain and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and delicious!
7. Garnish and Serve:
For an extra touch, drizzle the chicken bites with melted butter or lemon juice if you’d like. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan on top for good measure. Serve them hot as a delightful snack, appetizer, or with your favorite dipping sauces!
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a richer flavor and tend to stay juicier than breasts. Just be sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make These Chicken Bites Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with These Bites?
These chicken bites go well with a variety of dipping sauces! Consider ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or even a zesty garlic aioli for a tasty complement!