Cracker Chicken Bites

Short Description

Cracker Chicken Bites are crispy, golden-brown, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful cracker crust. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a quick dinner. With a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super crispy texture without deep frying
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients
  • Perfect for parties, game nights, or quick meals
  • Can be baked or air-fried for a healthier option
  • Family-friendly and great for picky eaters

Ingredients

Cracker Chicken Bites 10 Cracker Chicken Bites are crispy, golden-brown, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful cracker crust. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a quick dinner. With a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts or tenders
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Crackers (such as Ritz or saltines), crushed
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Cooking spray or oil

Directions

  1. Prepare the chicken – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Prepare the coating – In one bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In another bowl, mix the crushed crackers and Parmesan cheese (if using).
  3. Coat the chicken – Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it with the cracker crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Bake or air-fry
    • Oven method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated chicken bites on a lined baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
    • Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  5. Serve – Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for extra heat.
  • Cheesy Flavor: Use cheddar-flavored crackers for a bolder taste.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers instead of regular ones.
  • Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
  • Panko Coating: Mix crackers with panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked coated chicken bites on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Cracker Chicken Bites
Cracker Chicken Bites 11 Cracker Chicken Bites are crispy, golden-brown, bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a flavorful cracker crust. These easy-to-make bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a quick dinner. With a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

How do I crush the crackers easily?

Place the crackers in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into fine crumbs. Alternatively, pulse them in a food processor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and stay extra juicy. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can coat the chicken bites and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, and spicy mayo are all great choices.

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Absolutely! Try using buttery crackers, cheese crackers, or whole wheat crackers for different flavors.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Press the cracker crumbs firmly onto the chicken, and let the coated pieces sit for a few minutes before cooking. Spraying with a little oil also helps.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use dairy-free milk in the egg mixture.

What’s the best way to keep them crispy after baking?

Serve immediately or place them on a wire rack instead of a plate to prevent steaming and sogginess.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love the crispy texture and mild flavor, making this a great family-friendly meal.

Can I cook them in a skillet?

Yes, pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.

Conclusion

Cracker Chicken Bites are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake, air-fry, or pan-fry them, they deliver a satisfying crunch and juicy tenderness. Try different variations and dipping sauces to make them your own. Enjoy!

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Cracker Chicken Bites

Cracker Chicken Bites

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crunchy, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in seasoned cracker crumbs and baked or fried to golden perfection. A perfect snack, party appetizer, or kid-friendly meal!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Cooking spray or oil (if frying)

For dipping (optional):

  • Ranch dressing
  • Honey mustard
  • BBQ sauce

Instructions

Prepare the coating:

 

Crush crackers into fine crumbs and place in a shallow bowl.

Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Prepare the batter:

 

In another bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.

Place the flour in a separate shallow bowl.

Coat the chicken:

 

Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off excess.

Dip into the buttermilk mixture, then coat with the crushed cracker crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Cook the chicken:

Baking method:

 

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place chicken bites on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Lightly spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

Frying method:

 

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

Fry chicken bites in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve:

 

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy!


Notes

You can use any type of buttery crackers, like Club or Saltines, for a slightly different flavor.

For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by repeating the egg wash and cracker coating steps.

To make it spicy, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the cracker mix

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