Kid's Chicken Bites Recipe
Fried, but can be grilled for a healthier option, by request. Served with fries or applesauce.
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Ingredients
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Chicken & Marinade
Breading
Coating & Frying
Sides & Serving
Method
Chicken & Marinade
- 1
Trim excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut each breast into bite-sized pieces about 1 to 1 1/4 inches so they cook quickly and are kid-friendly.
- 2
Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add the buttermilk (or thinned yogurt), 1 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper. Stir to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. (If you have more time, marinate up to 2 hours for extra tenderness.)
Breading
- 3
While the chicken marinates, set up a three-station breading assembly: a shallow bowl with flour, a shallow bowl with beaten eggs, and a shallow bowl with the breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
- 4
Working in small batches, remove a piece of marinated chicken, shake off excess marinade, dredge in flour (tap off excess), dip in beaten egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated. Place breaded pieces on a plate or wire rack. Repeat until all pieces are breaded.
Frying (classic) or Grilling (healthier)
- 5
Frying (classic)
Pour oil into a deep skillet or shallow pot to a depth of about 1/2 inch (or use a deep fryer). Heat oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken bites in small batches so they don't crowd, about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel–lined tray to drain.
- 6
Grilling (healthier option)
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C). Lightly brush the breaded chicken bites with a little of the neutral oil so crumbs don't burn. Place on the grill and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently to maintain contact, until grill marks form and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate to rest for 2 minutes.
- 7
Tip: If baking is preferred, arrange breaded pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning once, until golden and 165°F internally.
Sides & Serving
- 8
Prepare fries according to package instructions or oven-roast fresh fries while the chicken cooks (usually 20–25 minutes at 425°F/220°C). Warm applesauce in a small bowl if serving warm.
- 9