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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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