Oven Baked Chicken Bites
Crispy, seasoned chicken nuggets baked in the oven until golden brown and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, about 450g
- ⅓ cup cornstarch 40g
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl or a large zip-top bag, combine the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake to mix well.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Add the chicken to the seasoning mixture in small batches, tossing to coat each piece completely.
- Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure the pieces are not touching to allow them to crisp up.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken bites.
- Bake on the middle rack for 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and carefully flip each chicken bite over.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden, crisp, and cooked through.
- Confirm the chicken is done by checking that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) with an instant-read thermometer.
Notes
Food Safety: Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Don't Crowd the Pan: For the best crispy texture, give the chicken bites space on the baking sheet. Use two sheets if necessary.
Make Ahead: You can coat the chicken and keep it refrigerated on the baking sheet for a few hours before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap.