If you are looking for a bite-sized snack that bursts with flavor, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe is truly a winner. These crispy, golden morsels packed with tender chicken, rich garlic, and sharp Parmesan offer a perfect balance of comfort food and sophistication. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe will quickly become your go-to because it combines simple ingredients with a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your friends with this delightful dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe is straightforward but absolutely essential. Each element plays a vital role, contributing to a crispy crust, savory depth, and satisfying juiciness that make these chicken bites stand apart.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect, quick cooking and tender bites.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that melds beautifully into the breading.
- Breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Create that signature crunch without overpowering the chicken.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the coating with that unmistakable warm garlic aroma.
- Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs like oregano and basil to complement the Parmesan.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances every bite’s flavor.
- Large eggs, beaten: Help the breading stick to each chicken bite securely.
- Olive oil and butter: A perfect duo for frying, blending richness and a slight fruitiness that deepens flavor.
- Minced garlic: Sautéed for a fragrant, intense garlic boost that elevates the dish.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Offers a pop of color and fresh, herbal notes as a finishing touch.
- Additional grated Parmesan for garnish (optional): Enhances presentation and adds even more cheesy goodness.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Mixture
Start by combining the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures the perfect coating that delivers both flavor and texture in every bite.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Next, dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading sticks well. This step is crucial for that irresistible crispy exterior.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until you can smell its fragrant aroma filling the kitchen. Add the breaded chicken bites in a single layer, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Be sure to cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain crispiness. Once done, transfer the bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
After cooking all the chicken bites, sprinkle them with extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley if you like. These final touches don’t just amp up the flavor but also create a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately with your favorite dips like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli to complete the experience.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese are classic garnishes that brighten the plate while adding fresh herbal notes and savory finishing kicks. A light sprinkle makes the chicken bites look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs balance the richness of the chicken bites perfectly. You can also serve with classic garlic bread for a crowd-pleasing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter alongside small bowls of dipping sauces. Adding lemon wedges on the side can cut through the richness and add a bright, tangy note that guests will appreciate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days without losing their delicious flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these chicken bites for up to two months. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together, making it easy to reheat just what you need.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a baking sheet. This preserves their crispiness much better than microwaving. Heat for about 10 to 12 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful thanks to their higher fat content. Both work well for this recipe, so choose based on your preference.
Is it necessary to use both olive oil and butter for cooking?
Using both adds a richer flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust. Olive oil raises the smoke point, while butter offers that wonderful savory aroma you want in fried food.
Can these chicken bites be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Coat the chicken bites as directed, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
What dipping sauces go best with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe?
Classic marinara, creamy ranch, or garlicky aioli complement these chicken bites beautifully. Feel free to experiment with honey mustard or spicy Sriracha mayo for different flavor profiles.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure your seasonings are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe is a real crowd-pleaser that effortlessly blends simple ingredients into something truly special. Once you try it, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up a snack or meal that’s crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. So don’t wait—get cooking and share these delicious bites with those you love!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick appetizer or snack. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then pan-fried with garlic and butter to golden perfection. Garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, these bites make a deliciously addictive treat.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even coating for the chicken.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then roll the chicken pieces in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breading sticks well.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Cook each side for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if necessary. Once done, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Garnish and Serve: After all the chicken bites are cooked, sprinkle them with additional grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier bites.
- Panko breadcrumbs will give an extra crispy texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent sogginess.
- Cooking in batches helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken bites.
- Serve with dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for added flavor.
