Name: Baked Chicken Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing

If you're craving something irresistibly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these Baked Chicken Bites are the answer! They're the very best combination of bold flavor, golden crunch, and absolute weeknight ease.

Each bite bursts with savory seasoning and a hint of garlic, all wrapped in a perfectly crisp oven-baked coating. You'd never guess these chicken bites are baked, not fried-so you can enjoy them with way less guilt!

This recipe comes together in a snap, making it a lifesaver for busy nights, game days, or whenever you need a shareable snack that disappears fast. My family devours these every single time, and I know yours will too!

Golden, crispy oven-baked chicken bites piled on a plate with a side of dipping sauce

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispy and Flavorful Without Frying

Enjoy all the crunch you crave-without the mess or extra oil of deep frying.

Quick and Fuss-Free

Ready in under 45 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.

Kid-Approved and Crowd-Pleaser

Everyone loves these bite-sized, dunkable nuggets-great for picky eaters!

Versatile and Customizable

Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or protein-packed snack with endless dip options.

Key Ingredients for Baked Chicken Bites

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is the star here, giving you lean, juicy bites that cook up quickly and absorb all those tasty seasonings. Cut into even, 1-inch pieces for the best texture and even baking. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for extra juiciness, though they'll have a slightly richer flavor.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs create that signature light and crispy coating that makes these chicken bites truly irresistible. They get beautifully golden in the oven. For best results, use plain panko and season them yourself. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, but the bites won't be quite as crisp.

Parmesan Cheese

Grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty kick and helps the coating crisp up even more during baking. Use freshly grated if you can for max flavor, or pre-grated in a pinch. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, though the flavor will be different.

Garlic Powder

A little garlic powder brings bold flavor to every bite without overpowering the chicken. You can swap in onion powder or a combination of both for a different twist. For fresh garlic lovers, finely mince a clove and mix it into the egg wash.

Paprika

Paprika gives the coating a gorgeous color and a subtle smoky warmth. Smoked paprika works beautifully for even deeper flavor, or use cayenne for a spicy kick!

Instructions for Baked Chicken Bites

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. This ensures your chicken bites crisp up and don't stick.

Set Up Breading Stations

Grab two shallow bowls. In one, whisk the eggs with the olive oil until smooth. In the other, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mixing the coating ahead ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to cover completely. Press gently so the coating sticks well. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one for even crisping.

Bake Until Golden

Mist the tops of the chicken bites lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with a tiny bit more olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F/74°C). They should be crisp to the touch and sizzling!

Serve and Enjoy

Let your chicken bites cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. They're fantastic on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Craving heat? Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for spicy chicken bites that pack a punch.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs. Make sure your Parmesan is gluten-free, too-these substitutions keep the bites crispy and delicious!

Dairy-Free Bites

Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative. You'll still get a savory, cheesy flavor without any dairy.

Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness

Prefer richer bites? Try boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They're slightly fattier and come out super tender-just trim any excess fat before cutting.

Italian-Style Bites

Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the breadcrumb mix and serve with warm marinara sauce for a fun, pizza-inspired twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked Chicken Bites with a simple green salad, oven-roasted veggies, or a side of fluffy rice for a balanced meal. They're perfect with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, or spicy mayo. For a party platter, garnish with fresh parsley or chives and lemon wedges for extra zing.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8 to 10 minutes until hot and crispy again-this keeps them from getting soggy. For longer storage, freeze the cooled bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Bites (FAQ)

Q: Can I prep Baked Chicken Bites ahead of time?

A: Yes! Coat the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. Bake just before serving for the crispiest texture.

Q: What dips go best with Baked Chicken Bites?

A: These bites pair well with ranch, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, spicy buffalo, or even a creamy garlic dip. Mix and match your favorites!

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Absolutely! Thighs make the bites extra juicy-just trim any excess fat and cut them into even-sized pieces for even cooking.

These Baked Chicken Bites are a true game-changer-crispy, flavorful, and so easy to make! Whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving a better-for-you snack, you'll reach for this recipe again and again. Give it a try, then leave a comment or rating below to let me know how your family enjoyed them!