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Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Juicy, flavorful chicken bites tossed in garlic butter and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, easy, and family-approved.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 tbsp boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
  • ½ Juice of lemon (optional for brightness)

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Small saucepan (for garlic butter)
  • 1 Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Season chicken: In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Air fry: Arrange chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  4. Make garlic butter: While chicken cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t burn).
  5. Combine: Transfer cooked chicken to a bowl, pour the garlic butter over the top, and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like. Serve hot with rice, pasta, or a simple veggie side.

Notes

  • Swap chicken for shrimp and reduce cook time to 5–6 minutes for a fun twist.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • Pairs perfectly with air-fried veggies or a quick side salad.