Transform plain chicken into the most tender and flavorful Chicken Bites. This method is easy, fast, and perfect for adding a delicious protein to a kids meal or family dinner.
My kids are on a “plain” chicken kick, which means they prefer it without breading (right now anyway). And these Chicken Bites have become one of my favorite fast and easy chicken recipes for kids. They are mild yet also flavorful enough for my grown up tastebuds. They cook in minutes, work well as leftovers, and are perfect for dunking into your dip of choice.
We like them as a protein to pair with Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese or a quick salad with Caesar Dressing, though you can really add them to almost any meal.
(You may also like Yogurt Chicken, Salmon Bites, Chicken Fritters, and Italian Chicken Cutlets.)
Table of Contents
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Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to have on hand to make Chicken Bites so you know what to pick up from the store or have ready.
- Boneless skinless chicken breast: I prefer to make this recipe with cubes of boneless, skinless chicken so I start with skinless chicken breast. If you prefer chicken tenders or chicken thighs, you can use those cuts instead.
- Flour: A little all purpose flour helps the Chicken Bites get crispy on the edges. (You can skip this if you prefer though.)
- Oregano, garlic, and salt: I like to add a combination of minced garlic (or garlic powder) dried oregano, and a pinch of salt to flavor these Chicken Bites.
- Butter: I keep unsalted butter in my kitchen so that’s what I use here. You can also use salted butter if that’s what you happen to have on hand.
- Parsley, dips (optional): Feel free to sprinkle herbs on the chicken before serving or to serve the Chicken Bites alongside any dips your family enjoys.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a preview of how to make these Chicken Bites so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the end of this post for the full information, including the amounts and the timing.
Step 1. Dab chicken dry on all sides with paper towels. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Sprinkle flour and seasonings over chicken pieces.
Step 3. Toss well to evenly coat the chicken with the flour and spice mixture.
Step 4. Cook until nicely golden brown and serve with desired dip or sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
This easy recipe for chicken bites requires cutting up boneless chicken breasts (I like to use kitchen scissors to make this easy), then toss in flour and spices, and cook in a skillet. So easy.
The main difference is that chicken nuggets are breaded and these chicken bites are not.
You can serve them with pasta, rice, salad, cut up fruit, or anything you prefer.
How to Store
Store cooled Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or warmed slightly.
Best Tips for Success
- Omit the flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder in place of the fresh garlic if desired.
- Serve Chicken Bites alongside a dip or sauce of choice.
- Serve as a side dish or atop or alongside Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese, a salad with Caesar Dressing, Buttered Noodles, or Zucchini Pasta.
Related Recipes
I’d love to hear your feedback on this post, so please rate and comment below!
Easy Chicken Bites
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (diced or cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
- fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dab chicken on all sides dry with paper towels. Dice or cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Sprinkle flour, garlic, oregano, and salt and pepper over chicken. Toss well to evenly coat (all flour should stick to chicken and not be left behind in bowl; keep tossing if needed).
- Add butter to skillet; it should melt quickly. Tilt pan to evenly coat.
- Add chicken in an even layer, work to leave some space between pieces so they'll brown rather than steam.
- Let cook until nicely golden brown on bottom, about 3 minutes then flip to opposite side and cook 2 minutes longer, or until cooked through.
Equipment
Notes
- Store cooled Chicken Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Serve chilled or warmed slightly.
- Omit the flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder in place of the fresh garlic if desired.
- Serve Chicken Bites alongside a dip or sauce of choice.
- Serve as a side dish or atop Buttered Noodles or Zucchini Pasta.
Is it possible to cook these in the air fryer?
Yes, 375 for about 10-12 minutes.
These were great and my kids and I loved them. Would love to keep some frozen as a substitute for chicken nuggets. Any tips for reheating from frozen?
I would do them for a few minutes in an air fryer or you can microwave them too
10/10! I used AP gluten free flour, and my husband and kids couldn’t get enough. We enjoyed it with salad and roasted potatoes. It was quick and delicious, and I will definitely add this to my regular rotation!
Do you think I could put all the coating in a gallon bag with the diced chicken and just shake it up to coat it?
Sure