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High Protein Low Calorie Air Fryer Chicken Bites - Simple, Juicy, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.25 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch bites
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (start with 3/4 teaspoon if sensitive to salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for a slightly crisp edge)
  • Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Chopped parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–4 minutes while you prep the chicken.
  2. Cut the chicken: Slice the chicken into bite-size pieces, about 1-inch cubes, for even cooking.
  3. Season: In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder or cayenne if using. If you want a touch more crispness, sprinkle in the cornstarch and toss again.
  4. Arrange in the basket: Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. A little space between pieces helps them brown. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Cook: Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Start checking for doneness at 8 minutes. The edges should be lightly browned, and the center should be cooked through.
  6. Check temperature: For best results, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Rest and serve: Let the bites rest for 2 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and sprinkle with herbs if you’d like.