Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A quick and easy main course or appetizer featuring crispy chicken bites tossed in a savory, buttery, and garlicky sauce. This beginner-friendly recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare and cook.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, helps create an extra-crispy exterior)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (to brighten the rich butter)

Instructions

1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. Pat the chicken cubes completely dry with paper towels.
2. Transfer the dried chicken to a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing to coat. In a separate small bowl, whisk together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss until well-coated.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Lightly mist the air fryer basket with a high-smoke-point oil. Place the seasoned chicken bites in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
4. Cook the chicken bites at 390°F (200°C) for 9 to 11 minutes. Shake the basket or flip the chicken halfway through (around the 5-minute mark). The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outsides are golden brown.
5. While the chicken cooks, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. Stir well to incorporate.
6. Transfer the hot chicken bites directly into the bowl with the garlic butter sauce. Toss vigorously for 15–20 seconds to coat. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Don't skip patting the chicken dry, as moisture prevents crispiness. Batch cook if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. You can customize the herbs by swapping parsley for rosemary, thyme, or chives. Serves 4. Nutrition per serving: 310 kcal, 18g Total Fat, 34g Protein.