Description
These Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are an irresistible appetizer or light meal. Tender, bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in a flavorful blend of lemon zest, garlic, and Parmesan, then baked to golden perfection. Paired with a creamy, sharp cheddar dipping sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The combination of zesty lemon, savory garlic, and rich cheddar creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cheddar Dip:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the chicken bites don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine flour, panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, salt, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed. This breadcrumb mixture is the key to crispy, flavorful chicken bites.
Step 3: Dip chicken bites into beaten eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to coat evenly. This double-coating method helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and creates a satisfyingly crispy crust.
Step 4: Arrange chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the chicken bites are not overcrowded on the baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming instead of browning.
Step 5: Drizzle with melted butter and olive oil. The combination of butter and olive oil adds richness and helps the chicken bites turn golden brown and crispy in the oven.
Step 6: Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Meanwhile, make the dip: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will thicken the cheddar dip and give it a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 8: Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth and thickened. Warming the milk beforehand helps prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
Step 9: Stir in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth. Ensure the cheddar cheese is fully melted and the dip is heated through.
Step 10: Serve chicken bites hot with cheddar dip on the side. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, if desired.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy, flavorful chicken bites pair perfectly with the creamy, cheesy dip. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and always a hit with both kids and adults! The zesty lemon and savory garlic complement the richness of the cheddar, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a light lunch or dinner with a side salad.
- Pair with other dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard for variety.
- Serve the chicken bites over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips:
- For extra crispy chicken, use a double layer of breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; cook in batches if necessary.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spice.
- Make the cheddar dip ahead of time and reheat before serving.
- Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Experiment with different cheeses in the dip, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the cheddar dip for extra brightness.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximately, per serving)
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 700mg
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
These Crispy Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Cheddar Dip are a fantastic addition to any recipe collection. They are simple to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to be a hit with everyone. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy cheddar dip is simply irresistible!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that chicken thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Q3: Can I bake the chicken bites in an air fryer?
A: Yes, air frying is a great option for even crispier chicken bites. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken bites in a single layer for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q4: Can I prepare the chicken bites ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chicken bites ahead of time up to the point of baking. Arrange the breaded chicken bites on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, drizzle with melted butter and olive oil and bake as directed.
Q5: What other dipping sauces would pair well with these chicken bites?
A: While the cheddar dip is a perfect complement, other great options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
