Name: Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites – Crispy & Juicy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491763H1M59S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular); ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh lemon wedges (for garnish); Chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Introduction

These Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites are a perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Ready in under 30 minutes, they make a quick and delicious meal for busy weeknights. The fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright, tangy kick that elevates simple chicken pieces.

A white bowl holds a pile of golden-brown, crispy fried cauliflower pieces, each piece coated with a crunchy crust that has small black and green herbs sprinkled throughout. The cauliflower sits in a shallow pool of melted butter or oil at the bottom of the bowl, giving a shiny texture to the dish. On the top of the cauliflower, there is a light dusting of coarse salt and finely chopped herbs, adding touches of white and green color. Behind the pile, two slices of bright yellow lemon and a small sprig of fresh green rosemary rest against the bowl's edge. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for extra zestiness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh lemon wedges (for garnish, optional)
Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish.
Step 3: Place the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Remove the chicken bites from the air fryer and let them rest a couple of minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, pat the chicken dry before marinating and avoid overcrowding the basket.
Try using smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Substitute dried thyme with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary for a different twist.
Add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness, or warm in the microwave, though they may be less crispy.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds a pile of small, crispy golden-brown fried pieces covered with green herbs and sprinkled with coarse white salt. The pieces look crunchy with a mix of darker browned spots and lighter golden areas. Bright yellow lemon wedges and a small green herb sprig sit at the back right inside the bowl. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the texture of the fried pieces and the fresh lemon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Cooking time may vary slightly, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 10 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, you can cook it right away. The seasoning will still provide good taste.