These Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Coated in a tasty mix of herbs and Parmesan, they make a great snack or dinner dish!
You can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy days! I love serving them with a side of dipping sauce because who doesn’t enjoy a little extra flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try using turkey breast cut into bite-sized pieces. This recipe is still tasty with turkey!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but pre-grated works too. If you need a substitute, you could use Pecorino Romano, which has a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They add wonderful crispiness! If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be quite the same. For a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitute.
Dried Herbs: Italian herbs are essential, but you can mix your favorites. Herbs de Provence or even a bit of rosemary can replace them if you’re looking for a twist.
How Do I Get My Chicken Bites Extra Crispy?
Achieving that crispy, golden finish is key! Here’s how to ensure your chicken bites come out perfectly crisp:
- Make sure your chicken pieces are coated evenly with the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken for maximum stickiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying. This helps keep the oil hot and ensures even cooking. Fry in batches if needed!
- Let the chicken bites drain on a paper towel after frying. This removes excess oil and helps them stay crispy.
- If you want extra crispiness, consider popping the cooked chicken bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes after frying.
Enjoy your homemade Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites! They are perfect for parties or a cozy family dinner.
Parmesan Herb Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for frying
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes for cooking, with a total of about 35 minutes to get these tasty bites on your table. Quick and easy for a weeknight meal or a party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what will give your chicken bites that delicious crust!
2. Set Up for Dipping:
In a separate bowl, crack and beat the two eggs. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Make sure you have everything ready to make the process smooth and easy.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press down lightly to help the crumbs stick. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate as you go.
4. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken so that it fries nicely!
5. Fry the Chicken Bites:
Carefully add the coated chicken bites to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the hot chicken bites and add extra Parmesan if you like!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Optionally, serve with lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze before eating. These chicken bites are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to your bites. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though the texture may be less crispy. For gluten-free options, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch!
Can I Make These Chicken Bites in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken pieces, coat them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This will also help the coating stick better during cooking!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy!