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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites

Discover these easy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites that are golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion or weeknight meal!

By Sarah Johnson
4.9 (590 reviews)
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Delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites - homemade Italian-American comfort food recipe
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites - Ready to enjoy

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites are a delightful combination of savory flavors and crispy textures, perfect for appetizer platters or a main dish. This easy-to-follow recipe will make any mealtime a hit! Pair them with your favorite pasta or salad for a complete meal that your whole family will enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can serve up these delicious bites in no time, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out not only for its flavor but also for its simplicity. The chicken bites are easy to make and cook up quickly, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. The crispy, golden crust adds an inviting texture and the Parmesan cheese elevates the dish with a rich, nutty flavor that everyone loves. They’re versatile enough to be served solo or as part of a larger spread, making them perfect for both casual and festive occasions.

A Symphony of Flavors

With each bite, you'll experience a perfect harmony of flavors as the rich, nutty taste of parmesan melds beautifully with the sweet, juicy chicken. The crispy coating provides a delightful crunch, while hints of garlic and herbs create an aromatic backdrop that enhances the overall taste. As you tear into these bites, the warmth of the chicken combined with the crispy exterior makes for an unforgettable texture experience. Whether on their own or paired with sauce, these bites are guaranteed to impress your palate.

Key Players in This Recipe

The star ingredient in this recipe is, of course, the Parmesan cheese. It not only adds a sharp, tangy flavor but also helps create that irresistible crispy crust we all crave. Another essential element is the chicken breast, which should be chosen for its tenderness; it serves as the perfect vehicle for absorbing all the rich flavors from the coating. Lastly, the use of Panko bread crumbs provides an extra crunch, setting these bites apart from standard chicken nuggets and ensuring a delightful texture in every mouthful.

Step-by-step preparation of Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites showing ingredients and initial cooking steps
Preparing the ingredients
Cooking process for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites showing technique and proper timing
During the cooking process

The Story Behind This Recipe

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites have quickly become a family favorite in many households across America. This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian cuisine, where cheese is often a highlight. The recipe evolved as parents sought simple yet satisfying meals that could please the picky eaters in their families. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, these chicken bites have become a staple at family dinners and gatherings. They remind us that comfort food doesn't have to be complicated; sometimes, it's just about finding the right balance of crispy and creamy.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the unique aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the seasoning or swap the cheese to create a new flavor profile. Add herbs like oregano or basil for a twist, or try different types of cheese for a variation. What truly sets it apart are the Panko crumbs, providing an elevated crunch that traditional bread crumbs often miss. These chicken bites not only satisfy a craving for something crispy but also offer a hearty meal option, making this dish special enough for both casual nights and entertaining guests.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Baking Sheet

Essential for evenly cooking the chicken bites and ensuring they achieve that golden brown color.

Mixing Bowls

Needed for preparing the breading and chicken mixture.

Meat Mallet

Helps pound the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Cooking Spray

Ensures the bites crisp up nicely without sticking.

Measuring Cups

Precision in measurements ensures balanced flavors.

Perfect Pairings

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Their creaminess complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

Caesar Salad

A fresh, crisp salad that lightens up the meal.

Marinara Sauce

Ideal for dipping, adds a tangy flavor that enhances the cheese.

White Wine

A chilled glass balances the richness of the cheese.

Roasted Vegetables

Add color and a healthy element to your meal.

Perfectly cooked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites served and ready to eat - final result
The perfect finished result

Pro Tips

  • For crunchier bites, toast the Panko breadcrumbs in a little oil before using them.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this retains moisture inside.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for unique flavors.
  • Make a larger batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
  • Serve with a variety of dips to keep things interesting.

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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites

These irresistible Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites are not only easy to make but also deliver on taste, combining juicy chicken with a satisfying, crunchy crust for a delightful bite every time.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Servings: 4 yields
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

💡 Click on ingredients to check them off!

  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

💡 Click on steps to mark as complete!

  1. 1
    Prepare Chicken
    In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure even coating. Mix until fully combined.
  2. 2
    Set Up Breading Station
    Have three shallow bowls ready: one with beaten eggs, one with Parmesan and Panko mixed together, and one empty for the breadcrumbs. This helps create a clean and efficient breading process.
  3. 3
    Coat Chicken
    Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then roll in the Panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This ensures a thick, crunchy crust.
  4. 4
    Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is vital for achieving the crispy texture we all love.
  5. 5
    Place on Baking Sheet
    Arrange the breaded chicken bites on a lightly greased baking sheet, ensuring there's space in between each piece for even cooking.
  6. 6
    Bake Them
    Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for uniform cooking.
  7. 7
    Garnish and Serve
    Once baked, remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with dipping sauce.
  8. 8
    Enjoy
    Savor these crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites hot from the oven or let them cool slightly for a perfect, family-friendly meal!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories 350
Total Fat 15.0g
Carbs 20.0g
Protein 30.0g

Chef's Notes

  • For added flavor, include Italian seasoning in the breading mixture.
  • Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
  • If you want a gluten-free option, replace Panko with crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Ensure to preheat the baking sheet for extra crispiness in the bites.
  • These bites can also be air-fried for a healthier version.

Make It Your Own

Cooking is all about creativity, and these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites serve as a delicious base for experimentation. Don't hesitate to add your favorite spices or swap out ingredients for a personalized touch. The beauty of this dish is its adaptability—it's sure to become a staple in your home! Share your culinary adventures with friends and family or try these bites at your next gathering. Remember, the best meals come from your heart—and your kitchen.

💬 Did you make this recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken bites and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can also freeze them after breading and bake when needed.

Marinara sauce is a classic pairing for these chicken bites, but ranch dressing or honey mustard also work beautifully for dipping.

These bites are versatile and pair well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

It's best to use fresh chicken for even cooking, but if frozen chicken is your only option, ensure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading.

While they are indulgent due to the breading, you can make them healthier by using whole-grain breadcrumbs and baking instead of frying.