Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Here’s a simple recipe to make them at home:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking oil (for frying or air frying)

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)

For Garnish (optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Bites:

1. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
4. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• For Frying:
  • Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C).
  • Fry the chicken bites in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
• For Air Frying:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly spray the chicken bites with cooking oil.
  • Air fry in a single layer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

3. Make the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.

4. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce:

• Place the cooked chicken bites in a large bowl and pour the warm sauce over them. Toss gently to coat evenly.

5. Serve:

• Transfer the chicken bites to a serving plate.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
• Serve immediately with extra sauce for dipping.

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Tips:

• For a healthier option, bake the chicken bites at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha.
• Serve with a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or extra honey for dipping.

Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Chicken Bites as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish with rice or a salad!