These Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are the ultimate bite-sized treat: crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with zesty lemon pepper flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or a main dish, these chicken bites are easy to prepare and deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something savory, these crispy bites are sure to impress.

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of tender chicken, crispy coating, and bright lemon pepper seasoning makes these bites an irresistible option for any occasion. The extra crispy texture is achieved through a simple yet effective breading technique using all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and seasoning. The lemon pepper seasoning adds a zesty, peppery kick that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the chicken. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air fry, this recipe guarantees a delicious result that is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
Vegetable oil (or canola oil, for frying)
Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the Chicken: Rinse your chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Set up the Breading Stations

Dry Breading Station: In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
Wet Breading Station: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This will help the dry breading stick to the chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Bites

First Dip (Dry): Take a piece of chicken and dredge it in the dry flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Press gently to help the coating adhere and shake off any excess.
Second Dip (Wet): Dip the floured chicken piece into the egg wash, making sure it’s completely submerged. Let any excess egg wash drip off.
Third Dip (Dry): Return the chicken to the dry flour mixture and coat it again, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks well. This double coating will ensure an extra crispy texture.
Repeat: Continue this process for all the chicken pieces, placing them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Bites

Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil (or canola oil) in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is the right temperature. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy; if it’s too hot, the chicken will burn before cooking through.
Fry in Batches: Carefully add the breaded chicken bites to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Fry about 6-8 pieces at a time, depending on the size of your pot.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the chicken for 4-6 minutes per batch, turning them occasionally for even browning. The chicken is ready when it’s golden brown and crispy on all sides, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Drain: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken bites from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Optional Seasoning: Immediately after frying, sprinkle a little extra lemon pepper seasoning or a pinch of salt over the hot chicken bites for an extra flavor boost.
Serve Immediately: These crispy chicken bites are best served hot for maximum crunch.
Garnish: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the chicken just before serving to add a final burst of brightness.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a tangy lemon aioli.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you’re looking for a healthier option, try these alternative cooking methods:

Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Baking: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 (approx. 14-18 bites)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Total Time: 30 minutes (depending on batch size)

Variations

Spicy Lemon Pepper: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dry breading for a spicy kick.
Garlic Parmesan: After frying, toss the chicken bites in a mixture of grated parmesan cheese and additional garlic powder for a cheesy, savory flavor.
Lemon Herb: Add finely chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme to the breading mixture for a fresh, herbaceous twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Keep any leftover chicken bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your protein powder and any other ingredients are gluten-free.

3. How can I make these chicken bites spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry breading for a spicier version of these lemon pepper bites.

4. Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time. Store the breaded pieces in the fridge for up to 24 hours and fry them just before serving.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and cooked through.

Conclusion

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether you fry them, bake them, or air fry them, these bites will be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. With their golden-brown crust and zesty lemon pepper flavor, they’re a delicious and versatile dish you can enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun and satisfying meal!

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients