Description
These Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and zesty! Coated in a light, golden-brown crust and infused with bright lemon pepper seasoning, they make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or main course. Easy to make and utterly irresistible, these chicken bites are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup cornstarch
3 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
Vegetable oil (or canola oil) for deep frying (about 3-4 cups)
Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Optional Glaze or Additional Seasoning
Lemon pepper seasoning (for extra seasoning after frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches).
Uniform pieces will ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 2: Set up the Breading Stations
In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create an egg wash.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Bites
Dredge each chicken piece in the dry flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides.
Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s submerged.
Return the chicken to the dry mixture and coat it again for a double coating that will ensure extra crispiness.
Place the breaded pieces on a clean plate or baking sheet.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Bites
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Add the breaded chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry 6-8 pieces at a time.
Fry for 4-6 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oil and drain excess oil on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Optionally, sprinkle extra lemon pepper seasoning over the chicken immediately after frying.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges for added zing and garnish.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a creamy lemon aioli.
Notes
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve crispy chicken bites.
Serving Suggestion: Add extra lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for even more bright, zesty flavor.
Customizable Coating: Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying