These crunchy chicken bites make for a delicious and satisfying snack or light meal. Made with leftover shredded chicken or canned chicken, and a delicious combination of seasonings, they’re perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
1. 25 ounces of shredded chicken (leftover or canned)
– Use any leftover chicken or canned chicken you have on hand. Make sure it’s well-drained if using canned chicken.
2. 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Adds a subtle tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chicken bites.
3. 1 large egg
– Helps to bind the ingredients together.
4. 1/8 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Provides a hint of earthy, aromatic flavor that pairs well with chicken.
5. 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– Creates a crunchy coating and adds texture. Use regular, panko, or gluten-free breadcrumbs as per your preference.
6. 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
– Adds a mild onion flavor to the mixture.
7. 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Gives a gentle garlic taste that complements the chicken perfectly.
8. **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
– Adjust according to your flavor preferences.
9. Oil, for frying
– Use enough oil to fill the bottom of your frying pan. Any neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or olive oil will work well for this recipe.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Dijon mustard, egg, dried thyme, breadcrumbs, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture is moist but firm enough to shape. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. **Shape the Chicken Bites:**
– Using your hands, shape the chicken mixture into small bite-sized portions, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can make them into balls, nuggets, or small patties, depending on your preference.
3. **Heat the Oil:**
– In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan to ensure even frying.
4. **Cook the Chicken Bites:**
– Carefully place the chicken bites into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula or tongs to turn them over gently to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
5. **Drain and Serve:**
– Once cooked, transfer the chicken bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool for a minute or two.
6. Enjoy:
– Serve the crunchy chicken bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or garlic aioli. They are also delicious served over a salad or in a wrap with some fresh vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Crunchy Chicken Bites:
– Use Leftover Chicken Wisely:
If using leftover chicken, make sure it’s shredded finely enough to bind well with the other ingredients.
– **Adjust the Texture: If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more Dijon mustard or an additional egg to help bind. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
– **Experiment with Seasonings:** Feel free to add or substitute other herbs and spices like paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to match your taste preferences.
– **Choose Your Oil Carefully:** Use a high smoke point oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, to prevent burning during frying.