Blackened Chicken Bites

Chicken Bites refer to small, bite-sized pieces of chicken, often seasoned and cooked until tender and juicy. They’re easy to make and can be flavored with a variety of spices and herbs. In this recipe, the chicken is coated in a flavorful spice mix and cooked to create a delicious blackened crust. Blackened Chicken Bites are ideal as an appetizer, a quick lunch, or a tasty dinner.

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1½ lb chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the spice mix.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned chicken to the pan in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on one side to achieve a good sear.
Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. Remove from the skillet and serve.

Notes:

You can use chicken breasts, thighs, or tenderloins.
If you prefer, substitute butter for olive oil.
The cayenne pepper gives these chicken bites a bit of spice, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
These bites are naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Blackened Chicken Bites are a simple yet bold dish, perfect for any meal of the day. This recipe delivers juicy, tender pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, cooked to perfection with a satisfying sear. The best part? These bites are not only delicious but also low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthy yet satisfying food.

What Are Blackened Chicken Bites?

Blackened Chicken Bites are small, bite-sized pieces of chicken that are seasoned with a variety of spices, including smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. The spices are what give the chicken its signature “blackened” look and taste. By cooking the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil, you create a delicious crust that locks in moisture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Customizable Heat Level: Not everyone loves the same level of spice, and that’s okay! You can easily adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Versatile: Blackened Chicken Bites can be enjoyed on their own, served over salad, or paired with your favorite side dish. They’re also perfect for meal prepping.

Tips for Cooking Perfect Blackened Chicken Bites

Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked without becoming dry.
Get a Good Sear: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice crust, giving the chicken that “blackened” appearance and extra flavor.
Substitute Ingredients: While olive oil works great for this recipe, you can swap it for butter if you want a richer flavor. You can also try using different herbs and spices depending on what you have on hand.

Are Blackened Chicken Bites Spicy?

Yes, these chicken bites have a bit of heat due to the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cayenne or omit it entirely. For those who love spice, feel free to add a bit more to kick things up a notch.

Are Blackened Chicken Bites Keto-Friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with flavor and low in carbs, making it perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. Every ingredient, from the olive oil to the spices, fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These bites also reheat well, making them a great option for meal prepping.