Description

Crispy Baked Spicy Chicken Bites are tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a spicy, crunchy breading and baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier alternative to fried chicken.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp hot sauce
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Remove chicken from the marinade and coat each piece with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Place coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
Serve with ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
Can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer.