Description
These Savory Air Fryer Chicken Bites are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor thanks to a sweet and tangy marinade with a hint of heat. Ready in just 25 minutes, they make a perfect quick and easy snack or meal that’s crispy on the outside and succulent inside, cooked conveniently in your air fryer.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, cut into cubes
Marinade
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Spray
- 1 can olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken thighs into a medium bowl or large ziplock bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all flavors.
- Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer: Generously spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Arrange Chicken in Basket: Place the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Cook the Chicken: Set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook the chicken bites for 9 to 11 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. The chicken should be golden brown with a crispy texture on the outside.
- Cook Remaining Batches: Remove the cooked chicken pieces and transfer them to a plate. Repeat the spraying and cooking process with any remaining marinated chicken until all pieces are cooked perfectly.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor; for more intense flavor, you can marinate up to 2 hours refrigerated.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety—chicken should reach 165°F.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit if sensitive to heat.
- Use olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking and for better crispiness without extra oil.
