- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne (if using).
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Grill the Chicken Bites
Outdoor Grill Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
- Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers (if using) or place them directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Stovetop Method (Using a Grill Pan or Skillet):
- Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil, then place the chicken bites in a single layer.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy!
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dip (like tzatziki, ranch, or garlic yogurt sauce).
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of extra seasoning.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a balanced meal.
- Add to wraps, sandwiches, or pita pockets with veggies and sauce.
- Pair with grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken bites for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.
Variants & Customization
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.
- Lemon Herb: Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for a zesty, herbaceous flavor.
- Honey Garlic: Add 1 tbsp honey and 1 minced garlic clove to the marinade for a sweet-savory twist.
- BBQ Style: Swap out some seasonings for BBQ sauce and grill as directed.
FAQ
1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
2. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Marinating and not overcooking are key! Remove the chicken from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F.
3. What’s the best way to check for doneness?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut a piece open to check that the juices run clear.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor, then grill when ready.
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