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:
Table of Contents
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
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Bites:
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
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:
In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
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.
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!
