If you’re anything like me, sometimes you need a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. That’s where these 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites come in! They’re the perfect blend of crispy, savory, and oh-so-delicious, making them a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for friends. Picture this: tender chicken wrapped in crispy bacon, all cooked to perfection in your air fryer—what’s not to love?
Not only do these little bites cook up in a flash, but they also pack a punch of flavor thanks to the seasonings and that irresistible bacon. Seriously, I can hardly resist popping one in my mouth as soon as they come out of the fryer! Plus, they’re so easy to whip up; you can have them on the table in no time. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites truly delicious:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces – Make sure to remove any excess fat for the best texture.
- 8 slices bacon, cut in half – I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra crispiness!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – It brings a warm smokiness to the dish that pairs perfectly with the bacon.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy! Season it well to enhance all those flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – A drizzle just before cooking helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
These ingredients are not only easy to find but also come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor! Trust me, you’ll want to have these on hand for your next gathering or even just a cozy night in.
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making those 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plateful of crispy, savory goodness in no time:
- Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step because starting with a hot air fryer ensures that the bacon gets nice and crispy while the chicken cooks through perfectly.
- Prepare the chicken: In a mixing bowl, toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece gets well coated with those delicious seasonings. Trust me, this will elevate the flavor!
- Wrap the chicken: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken piece. If you find the bacon slipping, feel free to secure it with a toothpick—this will help keep everything together while it cooks.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Place your bacon-wrapped bites on a plate and drizzle them lightly with olive oil. This little step is the secret to achieving that gorgeous golden-brown finish, so don’t skip it!
- Arrange in the air fryer: Carefully place the wrapped chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, or they won’t cook evenly. You may need to do this in batches, but it’ll be worth it!
- Cook them up: Set the timer for 10-12 minutes. Flip the bites halfway through to ensure they get crispy all around. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is beautifully crisp and the chicken is cooked through (you can check with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F or 74°C).
- Let them rest: Once they’re done, remove the bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more tender and juicy!
And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll be treated to a delectable dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. I promise your taste buds will be thanking you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up these mouthwatering bites, making them perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a last-minute gathering.
- Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and crispy bacon, paired with delicious seasonings, will leave you craving more!
- Versatile for different occasions: Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a party, a snack for game day, or a main dish for dinner, these bites fit the bill perfectly.
- Gluten-free option: With simple, gluten-free ingredients, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats regardless of dietary restrictions.
Tips for Success
To truly master these 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites, here are some of my best tips to ensure you get the most out of this recipe:
- Choose the right bacon: I recommend using thick-cut bacon for that perfect balance between crispiness and chewiness. It holds its shape better and adds more flavor!
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating your air fryer is essential. It creates the ideal cooking environment for crispy bacon and tender chicken. Trust me, you want that sizzle right from the start!
- Monitor cooking time: Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on your bites as they cook. If they’re not browning as quickly as you’d like, you might need to adjust the time slightly. Just be careful not to overcook them!
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and tenderness.
- Let them rest: After cooking, let the bites rest for a few minutes before diving in. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite succulent and flavorful.
- Cleaning tip: If you find bacon grease splatters in your air fryer, don’t worry! Allow it to cool before cleaning, and soak any stubborn spots with warm, soapy water to make cleanup easier.
With these tips, you’ll not only achieve delicious results but also feel like a pro in the kitchen! Enjoy the process and have fun experimenting with flavors and techniques. You’ve got this!
Variations
The beauty of these 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites is their versatility! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative and switch things up. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chicken mixture for a little heat. Trust me, the balance of spice with the savory bacon is absolutely delightful!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in some finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with the seasonings. The fresh flavors elevate the dish and bring a wonderful aroma to your kitchen.
- BBQ Glaze: Brush a little barbecue sauce over the chicken bites before cooking for a sweet and tangy twist. You can also serve them with extra BBQ sauce for dipping—yum!
- Cheesy Delight: Place a small cube of cheese (like cheddar or pepper jack) inside the bacon wrap before securing it around the chicken. As it cooks, the cheese will melt and ooze out, adding an extra layer of flavor!
- Teriyaki Style: Marinate the chicken pieces in teriyaki sauce for about 30 minutes before wrapping them in bacon. This gives the bites an Asian flair that’s sure to impress!
- Seasoned Crust: Before wrapping the chicken, toss the pieces in crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs mixed with your favorite seasonings for an added crunch.
These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor the bites to your taste or the preferences of your guests. Get creative, experiment, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear about your delicious creations!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your food is important, especially when creating delicious dishes like these 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (4 pieces):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands, so actual nutritional content may vary slightly based on the specific brands you use and any variations you make to the recipe. Enjoy your delicious bites while being mindful of these values—it’s all about balance!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is always best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen chicken breast. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
What air fryer do you recommend for these bacon-wrapped chicken bites?
I absolutely love my air fryer! Any model that can reach 400°F (200°C) should work just fine for these 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites. Just ensure it has enough space for the chicken bites to be arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken bites up to a day in advance. Just wrap the chicken in bacon, place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy them, follow the cooking instructions as usual. They might just need a minute or two longer to cook through.
What dipping sauces pair well with these bites?
There are so many tasty options! I recommend trying a creamy ranch dressing, zesty BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Each dip will add an extra layer of flavor that complements the savory bites beautifully.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. It’s that simple!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made these scrumptious 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites, and now you have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat them to keep that flavor and texture intact:
Storing Leftovers: Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them sealed tight to prevent any moisture from getting in—nobody wants soggy bites!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the bites in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re warm and the bacon is crispy again. This method will revive that delicious crunch and keep the chicken juicy!
If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and warm them up at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Again, flipping them halfway through will help achieve even heating.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the goodness of your bacon-wrapped chicken bites even after the first serving. Enjoy every last bite!
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15 Minute Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites You’ll Love!
- Total Time: 15-17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick and delicious air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap each piece of chicken with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Drizzle olive oil over the wrapped chicken bites.
- Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or barbecue rub.
- Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: 15 minute air fryer bacon wrapped chicken bites
