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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites – Easy 30-Minute Dinner

crispy garlic parmesan chicken bites - featured image

These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and come together in about 30 minutes flat. No fancy techniques, no obscure ingredients, and definitely no stress—just good food that makes everyone happy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast or chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Cut into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the two eggs with a tablespoon of water until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and another pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, letting extra drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating completely. Place on a clean plate or baking sheet. Repeat with all pieces.
  4. Pour enough oil into a large skillet to come about ¼ inch up the sides. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately (about 2-3 minutes).
  5. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil without overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Transfer cooked chicken bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. If making multiple batches, keep cooked pieces warm on a wire rack in a 200°F oven.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Don’t skip the flour step—it helps the coating stick. Use a thermometer for the oil (350°F to 375°F). Don’t overcrowd the pan. Let the breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying for extra crunch. For a double-coat, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb step.

Nutrition

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