Description
Quick and flavorful lemon chicken bites cooked in an air fryer, packed with zesty flavors and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced finely)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor, if desired)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Optional: Lemon Wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Make sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking. Place the chicken in a medium bowl.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper until combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken cubes. Toss until all the pieces are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to two hours.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for preheating.
- Arrange chicken in the air fryer basket: Once preheated, arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it.
- Air fry the chicken: Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through at around the 6-minute mark. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check for doneness: After the cooking time, ensure that the chicken is golden and cooked through. If needed, cook a little longer.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken bites and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, alongside lemon wedges.
Notes
For extra crispy bites, consider tossing the chicken in cornstarch before marinating.
