Description
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
500 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
100 g crispy bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
2. Bake the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
3. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped crispy bacon over the chicken bites. Return to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
5. Enjoy!
Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish. Enjoy these cheesy, crunchy bites with your favorite dipping sauce!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Cheesy Bacon Chicken Bites every time. First, ensure your chicken breast is patted dry before cutting into uniform, 1-inch pieces for even cooking. In one shallow dish, thoroughly combine the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a second dish, beat the two eggs. Working with one piece at a time, coat the chicken in the egg, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a full, even coating. Place each piece on your parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) for at least 15 minutes before baking. Just before the chicken goes in, drizzle or brush each piece with the melted butter—this is key for golden crispiness. Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes, then check. The bites should be golden brown and the internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or a cool sour cream and chive dip. For a main course, pair them with a fresh garden salad, crispy roasted potatoes, or steamed green beans. They also make a fantastic filling for wraps or a topping for a hearty salad.
How-to Summary
Cut chicken into bites, coat in seasoned breadcrumbs via an egg wash, bake at 200°C until golden, then top with cheese and bacon and bake until melted. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work and yield a juicier bite, but adjust cooking time slightly as needed.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the same crunch.
Can I prepare these chicken bites ahead of time? You can coat the chicken pieces and refrigerate them on the baking sheet, covered, for up to 4 hours before baking. Add the cheese and bacon just before the final bake.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Absolutely. Pre-cooked, chopped bacon is a great time-saver. Simply add it with the cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this steams the chicken instead of baking it crisp. Ensure your bacon is very crispy before chopping, as soft bacon won’t provide the desired texture. Do not skip the step of drizzling with butter, as it is crucial for browning. Finally, resist the urge to add the cheese too early, as it will burn before the chicken is fully cooked.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Bacon Chicken Bites are a guaranteed hit, combining simple ingredients into an irresistible dish. With a crispy exterior, tender chicken, and the classic duo of melted cheese and bacon, they satisfy every craving. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can easily master this recipe for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to party platters.