If you are craving restaurant-style crispy chicken wings without the extra oil and heavy calories, these Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are going to be your new go-to dinner. Golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, then tossed in a light garlic parmesan coating.
With 42g of protein and under 300 calories per serving, this easy recipe proves that eating healthy for fat loss does not mean eating bland food.
[Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving)]
Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 42g
Net Carbs: 3g
Fat: 11g
Prep Time: 8 mins | Cook Time: 12 mins | Servings: 3
[Ingredients]
For the Chicken:
1.2 lbs (550g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil spray)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt & black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Parmesan Glaze:
1.5 tbsp melted light butter
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
[Step-by-Step Instructions]
Prep the Chicken:
Pat the diced chicken breast dry with a paper towel (this is the key to getting it crispy). Place chicken in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss thoroughly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Air Fry to Perfection:
Preheat your Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2 minutes. Place the chicken bites in the basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through at the 6-minute mark, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Make the Garlic Parmesan Toss:
While the chicken is cooking, mix the melted light butter and minced garlic in a small microwave-safe bowl (microwave for 20 seconds to mellow the raw garlic flavor).
Toss and Coat:
Transfer the hot crispy chicken bites immediately to a large mixing bowl. Pour over the garlic butter mixture, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and toss until every piece is evenly coated.
Serve:
Serve immediately with a side of light ranch, hot sauce, or fresh lemon wedges.
[Meal Prep & Pro Tips]
Do Not Crowd the Basket: Cook in two batches if your air fryer basket is small; crowded chicken steams instead of getting crispy.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Reheat: Pop them back in the Air Fryer at 380°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness (avoid the microwave if possible).