Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Bites: A Must-Try Recipe for Air Fryer Enthusiasts
If you're a fan of crispy, flavour-packed chicken bites that come together effortlessly, then this crispy honey mustard chicken bites recipe is just for you. With the use of an air fryer, you get perfectly crunchy chicken bites without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier yet equally delicious treat.
Why Air Fry?
Air frying has become increasingly popular for those who wish to enjoy their favourite fried foods with less oil and guilt. It uses hot air circulation to cook food, leading to a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Plus, it's quicker and less messy than traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (either homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well so that each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavour absorption.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the breadcrumb coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
- Cook the chicken: Lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately. They pair beautifully with a side salad, or as a part of a main meal with your favourite sides.
Top Tips for Perfect Chicken Bites
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Ensure that there’s enough space around each piece for air to circulate, leading to crispier results.
- Experiment with flavours: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the marinade for a personalised taste.
- Serve with a dip: These bites go splendidly with a homemade honey mustard dip or a spicy sriracha sauce.
Conclusion
This crispy honey mustard chicken bites recipe is a versatile and easy dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a gathering or having a quiet night in, these bites are sure to be a hit.