Spicy Chicken Treat Bites (Print Version)
Golden, crispy chicken bites with a spicy marinade. Quick, easy, and perfect for sharing.
# What You Need:
→ Chicken
01 - 1.1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, cut into 1 in cubes
→ Marinade
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tbsp hot sauce (Sriracha or Tabasco)
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - ½ tsp cayenne pepper
07 - 1 tsp salt
08 - ½ tsp black pepper
→ Coating
09 - ¾ cup gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs
10 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ To Serve
11 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
12 - Lime wedges
# How to Prepare:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing well to coat. Let sit for at least 10 minutes (up to 1 hour for more flavor).
04 - In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
05 - Dredge each marinated chicken piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Arrange evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
06 - Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
07 - Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve with lime wedges.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- They are incredibly easy to throw together even on a busy weeknight.
- The spicy kick is perfectly balanced by the cooling dip served alongside.
02 -
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or the chicken will steam instead of crisp up.
- Letting the chicken marinate for longer than an hour might make the texture too soft.
03 -
- Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 75°C safely without drying out.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese for a better melt and flavor than the pre shredded stuff.