These Air Fryer Lemon & Garlic Chicken Bites are a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The zesty lemon combined with aromatic garlic gives the chicken a fresh and savory taste, while the air fryer ensures they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside without the need for excessive oil. This recipe is great for meal prepping, a quick dinner, or even as a protein-packed snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, over salads, or with roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. - Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15-30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor). - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 3 minutes. - Air Fry the Chicken:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken bites in a single layer in the basket (you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). - Serve:
Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 15-30 minutes (optional but recommended)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on the exact ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
- Add to wraps, tacos, or pita pockets with tzatziki or hummus for a Mediterranean twist.
Let me know if you’d like variations or tips for different dietary preferences! 😊
