Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are small, bite-sized pieces of chicken that are seasoned with garlic and Parmesan cheese. They are coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy finish and pan-fried until golden brown. These chicken bites are full of flavor, with the rich, savory taste of garlic complementing the salty, nutty Parmesan. It’s a simple dish that delivers great taste and texture in every bite.
Preparation for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites typically takes about 10 minutes, while the cooking time is around 15 minutes. In total, you can have these bites ready to serve in about 25 minutes.
The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are always a hit, especially at family gatherings. The balance of garlic and Parmesan makes the chicken flavorful without being overpowering. When served with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara, these bites become an even more satisfying treat for guests and family members alike.
Why You’ll Love It Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Tasty Flavor Combination: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites offer a perfect balance of savory garlic and rich Parmesan. The burst of flavor in every bite makes it a go-to snack or meal for anyone craving something tasty and satisfying.
- Simple to Prepare: This recipe is easy to make, even for beginners. With simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s a hassle-free meal that anyone can whip up in no time, perfect for busy days.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites fit the bill. These versatile bites are ideal for any event, adding a touch of deliciousness to every occasion.
Ingredient Notes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Both cuts work well for this recipe. Chicken breasts are lean, while thighs offer more flavor and tenderness.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps the coating stick to the chicken and gives it a crispy texture.
- Egg: Used to bind the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken, ensuring the coating stays intact when cooked.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds crunch and texture to the outside of the chicken bites, making them extra crispy.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a rich, salty flavor to the chicken bites. The Parmesan also helps to form a golden, crispy crust.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish its signature flavor. It’s key to the garlic Parmesan taste that everyone loves.
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that enhance the flavor profile with an Italian twist.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.
- Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken bites. It provides a smooth, slightly fruity taste and helps the chicken crisp up.
- Melted Butter: Adds richness to the dish, helping to coat the chicken bites and giving them a golden color when baked or fried.
- Fresh Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a slight herbal flavor that complements the richness of the chicken bites.
Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch
When making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites, it’s important to use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic adds a bold flavour, while freshly grated Parmesan enhances the texture. This will make your chicken bites more delicious and give them a rich, savoury taste. Don’t skip these steps!
You can adjust the seasoning to match your preferences. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes. For a richer flavour, try using garlic butter instead of plain olive oil. These little adjustments will add your unique touch to the dish.
For extra crunch, coat the chicken pieces with breadcrumbs before baking. This gives them a crispy, golden finish that complements the soft, juicy interior. Don’t forget to serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added flavour.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Variation
While the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are delicious on their own, there are many ways to make them your own. Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture for an extra kick.
- Baked vs. Fried: You can bake the chicken bites for a healthier option or fry them in a deep fryer or skillet for a crispy, golden exterior.
- Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the Parmesan mixture for a zesty twist.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some great serving ideas:
- As an appetizer: Serve the chicken bites with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- In a salad: Toss the chicken bites with your favourite salad greens, such as arugula or spinach, for a delicious, protein-packed salad.
- On a platter: Serve them alongside fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers for a crunchy, healthy snack option.
- With pasta: Add the chicken bites to pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty, delicious meal.
Storage Options
If you have any leftovers or want to meal prep in advance, here are some storage options:
- In the refrigerator: Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
How can I serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese for extra flavor.
Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites spicy?
No, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are not spicy. The flavor comes from the rich garlic and cheesy coating, which is savory rather than hot.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container and reheat when ready to serve.
How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites healthier?
To make them healthier, you can bake the chicken bites instead of frying them. Use a light coating of olive oil and skip any added sugars or excessive salt.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminium foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl.
- Coat the chicken: In a separate bowl, beat the egg. In another bowl, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. Repeat this for each piece.
- Bake the chicken: Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken to help it crisp up in the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through for even browning.
- Prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce: While the chicken is baking, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan in a small bowl. Once the chicken is done, immediately toss it in the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chicken bites with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
