Air Fryer Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Two mixing bowls (one medium, one small)
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil spray

• 1/3 cup honey
• 3-4 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water (slurry)

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions (scallions)
• Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken breast cubes dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to ensure the coating sticks properly and the chicken gets crispy. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until they are evenly and thoroughly coated with the cornstarch mixture. Let the coated chicken sit for 5-10 minutes. This brief rest helps the coating adhere to the chicken.
2. 2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating is key for achieving a crispy exterior.
3. 3. Air Fry the Chicken (First Round): Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken bites in a single, even layer in the basket. It’s important not to overcrowd them; you may need to cook them in two batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the tops of the chicken bites lightly with oil. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes , shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
4. 4. Prepare the Honey Sriracha Glaze: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Continue to simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and become glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. 5. Air Fry the Chicken (Second Round): After the first 8 minutes, pull the basket out and shake it to turn the chicken bites. Continue to air fry for another 4-7 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the exterior is golden brown and crispy. The total cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken pieces and your specific air fryer model.
6. 6. Toss and Serve: Once the chicken bites are fully cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm Honey Sriracha Glaze over the hot chicken and toss gently to coat every bite evenly. The heat from the chicken will help the glaze cling perfectly.
7. 7. Garnish and Enjoy: Immediately transfer the glazed chicken bites to a serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and serve with fresh lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. These bites are best enjoyed hot and fresh!

Nutrition

Calories: 335 kcal · Protein: 29g · Fat: 6g · Carbohydrates: 38g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 1g · Fiber: 1g · Sugar: 23g (includes 23g added · Sodium: 780mg