Quick & Tender Oven Baked Chicken Bites Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Hey there, these crispy oven baked chicken bites might just become your new weeknight dinner obsession.

Tender, golden-brown morsels packed with incredible flavor and satisfying crunch.

My secret blend of herbs and seasonings creates magic in every single bite.

Quick to prep and even faster to devour, these chicken bites deliver maximum taste with minimal effort.

They’re perfect for solo dinners or when hungry friends drop by unexpectedly.

Incredibly versatile, you can serve them as an appetizer, main course, or tucked into a warm sandwich.

I bet you’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next meal adventure.

Tips To Get Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Bites

• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes to dial heat up or down, making the dish perfect for sensitive or spice-loving palates.
• Maximize Crispiness: Pat chicken pieces dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in juicy flavor.
• Protein Prep Hack: Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Experiment with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce to complement the smoky, savory chicken bites.
• Low-Carb Friendly: Skip breading to keep this recipe keto and gluten-free while maintaining delicious, zesty seasonings.

How To Store Oven Baked Chicken Bites

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Reheat Oven: Warm chicken bites at 350F for 10-12 minutes, spreading them on a baking sheet to maintain crispiness and prevent sogginess.
• Microwave Option: Quickly reheat in microwave for 30-45 seconds, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Freezing Tip: Freeze cooled chicken bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, ensuring they're tightly sealed to preserve flavor and texture.

What Pairs Well With Oven Baked Chicken Bites

• Pair with Zesty Dipping Sauces: Whip up a creamy ranch, tangy honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo to complement the chicken's bold seasonings and add an extra flavor punch.
• Match with Crisp Salad Sides: Toss together a light mixed greens salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich, savory chicken bites.
• Create Perfect Wine and Beer Companions: Enjoy a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as pilsner to cut through the chicken's spicy notes and refresh your palate.
• Serve with Hearty Grain Partners: Prepare fluffy quinoa or herbed rice to soak up the delicious chicken juices and provide a satisfying, nutritious base for your meal.

Fun Variations For Oven Baked Chicken Bites

• Spicy Mexican Fiesta: Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder and add ground cumin. Serve with zesty salsa and lime wedges for a vibrant southwestern kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Crunch: Replace oregano with dried thyme and za'atar spice blend. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint for a tangy Mediterranean experience.
• Asian Sesame Fusion: Substitute olive oil with sesame oil and add grated ginger. Drizzle with sriracha honey glaze and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for an umami-packed appetizer.
• Cajun Pepper Party: Mix in Cajun seasoning instead of regular spices. Serve with creamy remoulade sauce and green onion garnish for a bold New Orleans-style treat.

Oven Baked Chicken Bites FAQs

• Why are these chicken bites healthier than fried versions?

These oven-baked chicken bites use minimal oil and are cooked without deep frying, which significantly reduces the overall fat and calorie content while still maintaining a crispy texture and delicious flavor.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of other chicken cuts?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly for this recipe. Just cut them into similar-sized bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.

• How do I know the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat while keeping the bites juicy and tender. Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking also helps prevent dryness and promotes even browning.

• What makes the spice blend in this recipe special?

The combination of garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes creates a complex, layered flavor profile that adds depth and excitement to simple chicken bites, making them much more interesting than plain grilled chicken.

Why Oven Baked Chicken Bites Are So Juicy And Quick

• Burst with Flavor: Packed with a zesty blend of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, these chicken bites deliver a punch of exciting taste in every single bite.
• Effortless Cooking Method: Simply toss, spread, and bake – this recipe requires minimal preparation and cleanup, making it perfect for busy home cooks looking for a quick and delicious meal solution.
• Versatile Party Pleaser: These crispy, golden chicken bites work wonderfully as an appetizer, game day snack, or protein-packed meal that appeals to both kids and adults with their irresistible seasoning and crispy exterior.
• Healthy and Lean Protein: Baked instead of fried, these chicken bites offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, providing a protein-rich option that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture.

What Goes Into Oven Baked Chicken Bites

• Chicken: Tender meat that forms the base of the recipe, best when using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic flavor enhancers that bring out the natural taste of chicken.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Aromatic spices that add depth and savory notes to the chicken.
• Smoked Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes: Provide warm, slightly spicy undertones with a hint of smokiness.
• Oregano: Herb that contributes an earthy, Mediterranean-style flavor profile.

• Olive Oil: Helps to coat chicken and promote even browning, adds subtle richness.
• Parchment Paper or Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional topping that adds a salty, nutty finish to the chicken bites.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright green garnish that provides a fresh visual and flavor accent.

• Dipping Sauce: Complementary condiment to enhance the overall taste experience, can be chosen based on personal preference.

How To Make Oven Baked Chicken Bites

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

• Lay down parchment paper
• Give it a quick spritz of cooking spray

Step 2: Spice and Coat the Chicken

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes

Massage those seasonings into every nook and cranny of the chicken until they’re completely coated.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread those seasoned chicken bites across the baking sheet, making sure they’re not crowding each other. Pop the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the pieces to ensure they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a gorgeous golden color and reach an internal temperature of 165F (75C).

Step 4: Add Final Touches

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot bites
• Scatter some chopped fresh parsley on top
• Serve immediately with a zesty dipping sauce of your choice

Oven Baked Chicken Bites Recipe

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4.6 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Mexican-style Oven Baked Chicken Bites deliver a fiery flavor explosion that dances across palates with zesty spices and crispy edges. Crisp golden exteriors and juicy interiors promise a quick, satisfying meal you will crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cooking environment by warming the oven to a robust 400F (200C), ensuring an even heat distribution. Protective layer the baking surface with parchment paper or apply a delicate grease coating to prevent chicken adherence.
2. Transform the chicken pieces into a flavor-packed ensemble by massaging them with olive oil and a symphony of seasonings – salt, cracked black pepper, aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, zesty onion powder, fragrant oregano, and a whisper of fiery red pepper flakes. Thoroughly coat each morsel until uniformly seasoned.
3. Arrange the seasoned chicken bites across the prepared baking sheet, maintaining a strategic single layer to promote optimal crisping and even roasting. Slide the tray into the heated oven and allow the chicken to transform, rotating midway through the 15-18 minute cooking cycle. Monitor until the exterior achieves a golden-brown complexion and the internal temperature reaches a safe 165F (75C).
4. Upon emergence from the oven, elevate the chicken’s flavor profile by cascading freshly grated parmesan across the hot surface. Sprinkle vibrant chopped parsley for a final touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside your preferred dipping companion for a tantalizing culinary experience.

Notes

• Swap chicken pieces for tofu or tempeh to create a vegetarian version that’s equally delicious and protein-packed.
• Use gluten-free spices and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Pat chicken pieces dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better spice adherence.
• Experiment with different spice blends like Cajun, Mediterranean, or Korean-inspired seasonings to keep the recipe exciting and versatile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 495 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 44 g
• Cholesterol: 130 mg