Description
Air Fryer Chicken Bites are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned with bold Cajun spices. Ready in just 22 minutes, this quick and easy high-protein recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Instructions
- Preheat a 5-quart air fryer to 380°F for 5 minutes.
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and place them in a medium bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
- Add Cajun seasoning, sugar, salt, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, poultry seasoning, thyme, and parsley. Stir well so the chicken is evenly coated.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray and arrange the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Cook for 7–11 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes for even cooking.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing. Serve immediately.
Notes
- The sugar balances the spices and helps create caramelized edges.
- Red pepper flakes can be omitted for a milder version.
- Creole seasoning can be substituted for Cajun seasoning.
- Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the air fryer model.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 466 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 986 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 73 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg