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Crispy Dry Chili Chicken Bites – Better Than Takeout Crunch

Crispy Dry Chili Chicken Bites – Better Than Takeout Crunch

Crispy Dry Chili Chicken Bites – Better Than Takeout Crunch are the perfect flavorful, crunchy snack or appetizer.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped fresh cilantro
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Pat Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from chicken pieces.
  • Season: Toss chicken with salt, pepper, soy sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, and garlic powder.
  • Coat: Add cornstarch, stirring to evenly coat each piece.
  • Preheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F and let heat for 3 minutes.
  • Cook: Arrange chicken in a single layer, cook 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
  • Check Doneness: Insert thermometer; internal temperature should read 165°F.
  • Serve: Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle cilantro and sesame seeds.

Notes

Brush lightly with high-smoke-point oil for an extra golden hue. Use chicken breast for leaner bites, adding a teaspoon of mayo to maintain moisture. Coat and refrigerate chicken up to 12 hours; air-fry when ready. Double the recipe for a party, ensuring the air fryer basket isn’t overloaded. For storage, keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days in fridge, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Not recommended to microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 22gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g
Keyword air fryer recipes, appetizer recipes, better than takeout, chicken bites, Crispy Dry Chili Chicken Bites
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