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Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites are golden brown and crispy in this featured image.

Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites

Avatar photoAmelia Chen-Morrison
These Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites are quick, easy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor. Ready in under 20 minutes, they offer a juicy, crispy, and guilt-free way to enjoy chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or appetizer.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Cooking spray
  • serving plate
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh parsley, chopped optional garnish
  • Lemon wedges optional garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
  • Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer for crispy chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don’t overcook the chicken. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results. For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce. For gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly. To make it keto-friendly, replace honey with a keto-friendly sweetener.