Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Bites Recipe
Introduction
These Air Fryer Chicken Bites offer a quick and flavorful way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a spicy Cajun twist. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or a main dish, they come out crispy without the extra oil from traditional frying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins or chicken breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp blackened Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cut the chicken tenderloins or chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. If using chicken tenderloins, remove the tendon beforehand.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken bites, olive oil, blackened Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Refrigerate to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor. Marinating is optional but recommended.
- Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 5: Arrange the seasoned chicken bites in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket.
- Step 6: Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping the chicken bites halfway through the cooking time. Adjust the time depending on the size of the pieces to ensure they are cooked through.
- Step 7: Remove from the air fryer and serve hot. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful chicken bites!
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, lightly coat the chicken bites with a small amount of cornstarch before cooking.
- Swap the blackened Cajun seasoning for smoked paprika or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer milder bites, reduce the Cajun seasoning or omit black pepper.
- Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Storage
Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw fully before cutting and seasoning to ensure proper cooking and texture.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked and crispy.
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Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 16-18 minutes (plus optional marination time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Bites made with tender chicken pieces coated in a zesty blackened Cajun seasoning blend. These quick and easy finger foods are perfect for a healthy snack or a tasty appetizer, cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a deliciously golden exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins or chicken breast
Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp blackened Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Others
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken tenderloins or breast into bite-sized cubes. If using tenderloins, remove the tendon first to ensure tenderness.
- Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken bites with olive oil, blackened Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight, to enhance flavor. This step is optional but recommended.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Chicken Bites: Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the pieces.
- Serve: Once cooked through and golden, remove the chicken bites from the air fryer. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, flavorful chicken bites!
Notes
- Removing the tendon from chicken tenderloins ensures a better texture.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor, but you can skip marinating if short on time.
- Ensure chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer for even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to your taste preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken bites, Cajun chicken bites, crispy chicken bites, healthy chicken snack, air fryer appetizer
