If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal, these Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are a must-try. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and coated with a bright lemon garlic butter sauce that makes every bite irresistible.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep — simple ingredients, minimal oil, and ready in just 20 minutes. Using the air fryer gives you that golden-brown crust without deep-frying, making it a lighter but still satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and juicy: The air fryer gives perfect texture without excess oil.
- Quick and easy: Cooks in less than 15 minutes.
- Fresh and zesty: Lemon and garlic bring bold flavor to tender chicken.
- Healthy option: High in protein, low in fat, and full of taste.
- Versatile: Perfect for salads, rice bowls, wraps, or snacks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for a light glaze)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 3–4 minutes.
In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding — cook in batches if needed.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice (and honey if using). Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Transfer the cooked chicken bites to a mixing bowl. Pour the warm lemon garlic butter sauce over them and toss well to coat.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
- Add to a fresh salad or grain bowl for extra protein.
- Wrap in a tortilla with lettuce and mayo for a quick lunch.
- Serve as a party appetizer with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips & Tricks
- Preheat your air fryer for best crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket — airflow makes them crispy.
- Use fresh lemon for the best flavor.
- Add a kick by mixing in chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to keep them crispy.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs for juicier bites.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste — use more for tangy flavor.
- If you’re dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
- Want extra crunch? Lightly coat the chicken with cornstarch before air frying.
Description
These Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites are crispy, juicy, and packed with zesty lemon-garlic flavor. A healthy, protein-rich dinner ready in just 20 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Duration
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 500 g chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
- Toss chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- In a pan, melt butter, sauté garlic, and add lemon juice (plus honey if using).
- Toss cooked chicken in sauce and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 3 days and reheat in the air fryer.
