BBQ Chicken Bites

These BBQ chicken bites feature small pieces of chicken breast seasoned with a dry rub, seared in a pan, and coated in a flavorful barbecue sauce. They are tender on the inside with a slightly crisp, caramelized exterior.

This recipe has about 20 minutes of active time. Letting the chicken marinate for a couple of hours helps deepen the flavor, making it a great option to prep ahead for a fast weeknight meal.

Why will you love BBQ Chicken Bites?

Cutting the chicken into small, uniform pieces ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.

Searing the chicken in a single layer without disturbing it creates a flavorful, golden-brown crust.

Adding the barbecue sauce at the very end of cooking prevents the sugars in the sauce from burning over high heat.

BBQ Chicken Bites Ingredients

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer flavor and more tender result.

• High-Heat Cooking Oil: Avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil are good choices because they have a high smoke point suitable for searing.

• BBQ Seasoning Rub: A store-bought rub is convenient. Look for one with a mix of smoky and sweet spices like paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder.

• Barbecue Sauce: Any style of BBQ sauce works here, from a sweet and thick Kansas City variety to a tangier, vinegar-based one.

Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Bites

Step 1: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with oil and your BBQ seasoning until every piece is well-coated. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Let the chicken cook for 4-5 minutes without moving it to get a nice, golden crust.

Step 3: Glaze and Finish

Flip the chicken and cook for a few more minutes. Once it’s nearly done, turn the heat to low and pour in the barbecue sauce. Stir to coat all the pieces and cook for another minute or two until the sauce is warm and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Bites

These chicken bites are versatile. Serve them with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, or over a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tricks for BBQ Chicken Bites

For food safety, always cook chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Using a large pan is important. If the chicken is too crowded, it will steam instead of searing, and you won’t get a good crust.

If you are short on time, you can skip the marination step. The chicken will still be flavorful from the rub and sauce.

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ rub and sauce for this recipe.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Bites

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

BBQ Chicken Bites Recipe FAQs

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fry the seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Check for doneness, then toss with the BBQ sauce and return to the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to warm the sauce.

What’s the best pan to use for this recipe?

A large cast iron skillet is great for achieving a good sear. A large non-stick skillet or a flat-top griddle also works well. The key is to use a pan large enough so the chicken pieces are not crowded.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is recommended for more developed flavor, but it is not required. If you are short on time, you can cook the chicken right after seasoning it, and it will still be tasty.

BBQ Chicken Bites

Tender chicken pieces are seasoned with a smoky rub, seared until golden, and glazed with your favorite barbecue sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, 680g
• 3 tbsp high-heat cooking oil such as canola or avocado, divided, 45 ml
• 3 tbsp BBQ seasoning rub 25g
• ½ cup barbecue sauce 120 ml

Instructions

 

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and cut them into uniform 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
• In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of oil, and the BBQ seasoning rub. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to marinate.
• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of oil in a large skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat.
• Carefully place the chicken in the hot pan in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving the pieces, allowing a golden-brown crust to form on the bottom.
• Flip the chicken pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are nearly cooked through.
• Reduce the heat to low. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken and stir to coat all the pieces.
• Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
• Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the chicken bites right away.

Notes

For food safety, always cook chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Using a large pan is important. If the chicken is too crowded, it will steam instead of searing, and you won't get a good crust.

If you are short on time, you can skip the marination step. The chicken will still be flavorful from the rub and sauce.

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ rub and sauce for this recipe.

Keyword bbq, bbq chicken bites, Chicken, easy lunch, Quick Dinner