Description
Crispy, golden chicken bites marinated in fresh lemon juice and zest, cooked quickly in an air fryer for a healthy, high-protein weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 medium fresh lemons (one for zest, one for juice)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat completely dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch uniform cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Wash lemons. Zest one lemon using a microplane, avoiding the bitter white pith. Juice both lemons to yield approximately 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper to the chicken. Toss to coat evenly and let sit for one minute.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Arrange chicken cubes in a single layer, ensuring no overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Open basket and shake or flip pieces with tongs.
- Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with extra lemon zest or fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure chicken is patted dry before seasoning to maximize crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. If using chicken thighs, cooking time may increase slightly. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 20
Keywords: air fryer, lemon chicken, chicken bites, healthy dinner, quick recipes, high protein, gluten-free, dairy-free, weeknight meals