Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels and cut them into bite-sized cubes, about 1 inch in size.
Season the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil to coat evenly. Then add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Mix well until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken Bites
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there is some space between the pieces for even cooking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is lightly golden.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish: Remove the chicken bites from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. These bites also pair well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of the baking time to avoid drying it out.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 15-30 minutes before baking.
Storage and Reheating
Storing:
Place leftover chicken bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Easy Oven Baked Chicken Bites are:
Simple to make with minimal prep and cleanup.
Packed with bold, smoky flavors.
Versatile enough for snacks, appetizers, or main dishes.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
