These juicy and crispy taco-seasoned air fryer chicken bites are ready in just 20 minutes — no breading or marinating required. They’re packed with bold flavor and perfect for healthy meal prep!
You guys, I’m crazy about this air fryer chicken bites recipe. It’s one of those meals that is so delicious and versatile, but also incredibly easy to make. I usually air fry one batch for dinner and cook a second batch at the same time to save for lunches during the week. The chicken stays juicy, reheats well, and makes quick meals feel as satisfying as dinner.
I got hooked on making chicken in the air fryer back in 2018. Not many people were using air fryers yet, but I loved the concept of consistent, quick, and delicious results. Many years later, I’m still obsessed with air fryer chicken (and honestly, air fryer anything!).
How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Bites
I love how simple these air fryer chicken bites are to prepare — even your kids could make them! Cut the chicken, toss it up with seasoning, and throw it in the air fryer.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into small pieces and put them in a large bowl.
- Add the flavors: Toss the chicken pieces with the olive oil, taco seasoning, and lime juice.
- Get to air frying: Preheat the air fryer (my fav!) to 400°F for 3–5 minutes, then add the chicken and cook for 12-15 minutes.
Hot tip: Add an extra squeeze of lime juice at the end for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Tips From the Kitchen
Isn’t it amazing how a few tips and tricks can make all the difference in a recipe? Here’s how I ensure that these air fryer chicken bites come out perfectly juicy inside every time.
- Use chicken thighs. I prefer using chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful, but boneless skinless chicken breasts work too. If you go with breasts, take extra care not to overcook them because they’re done at a lower temperature than thighs.
- Cut the chicken evenly. Aim for 2-inch sized pieces to make sure they all cook at the same rate. A sharp knife is your best friend here!
- Make the taco seasoning yourself. It only takes five minutes, and the ability to control the flavors is so worth it. This recipe is a simple blend of salt, pepper, oregano, and savory spices.
- Leave room between the chicken pieces. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, so take care not to overcrowd the basket — you want the chicken to crisp up, not steam. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
- Avoid overcooking. Every air fryer cooks at a different rate, so start checking the chicken bites at 12 minutes, and take them out as soon as the internal temperature reaches 165°F with a digital thermometer. Even a couple minutes too long will produce dry bites.
Craving a crunch? Make these air fryer chicken nuggets or air fryer chicken tenders — loved by kids and adults alike!
Ways To Serve
There are so many options for enjoying these air fryer chicken bites! Keep it simple, or make it into a full meal.
- Dipping sauce: Pair the bites with sour cream, roasted tomato salsa, chipotle mayo, or another of your favorite dipping sauces.
- Taco bowl: Serve the chicken over cilantro lime rice with creamy tomatillo dressing, black beans, and avocado.
- Salad topper: Add the bites to a crisp romaine salad with ranch dressing.
- Low-carb wrap: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh, crunchy wraps with the chicken and your favorite additions.
Storage & Reheating
Have I mentioned how much I love using these air fried chicken bites for meal prep?? Store the leftovers properly, and you’ll have juicy protein on hand for the next few days.
- Storage: Allow the chicken bites to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat the bites in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes. If you’re short on time, use the microwave.
More Air Fryer Protein Recipes
- Air Fryer Salmon with Skin — Make salmon in the air fryer once, and you’ll never look back
- Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs — Juicy, versatile, and ready in 30 minutes
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings — Sooo crispy… skip the deep frying and excess oil!
- Air Fryer Ribs — Slathered in BBQ sauce and perfectly caramelized
Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp lime juice optional
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 2 inches) and place them in a bowl.
- Add the olive oil, taco seasoning, and lime juice. Toss until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
- Air fry the chicken for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly crispy on the edges. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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