If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that packs a punch, then air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites are just what you need! These little bites are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes each bite irresistible. Plus, using the air fryer means they come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—what more could you want? Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to for your family dinners!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand for the best flavor!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Bites
Making air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites is super simple and oh-so-satisfying! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying deliciously crispy chicken bites in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This is a crucial step because preheating ensures that your chicken bites start cooking immediately when you place them inside, giving them that perfect crispy texture. Trust me, don’t skip this part!
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, well-blended sauce. The mixture should be thick enough to cling to the chicken but still pourable—just the right consistency!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Now it’s time to add the diced chicken to the bowl with your sauce. Make sure to toss the chicken pieces well so they’re evenly coated in that delicious honey BBQ goodness. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor, so don’t hold back on the mixing!
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Bites
Place the coated chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them; the chicken is done when it’s golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to make sure it’s cooked through—no one likes undercooked chicken!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 22 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Minimal cleanup since everything is made in one bowl and the air fryer.
- Deliciously flavorful with a perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce.
- A healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, with less oil and fewer calories.
- Customizable with your favorite BBQ sauces or spices for a unique twist every time.
- Kid-friendly and sure to please the whole family, making dinner a breeze!
Tips for Success
To ensure your air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites turn out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips! First, if your chicken pieces are larger than bite-sized, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through. Also, don’t hesitate to play around with your BBQ sauce—different brands or homemade variations can add exciting flavors. If you want a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika to the sauce for an extra layer of depth. Lastly, let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to maintain juiciness before serving!
Nutritional Information
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a guideline. Each serving of air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites typically contains around 250 calories, 8g of fat, 20g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Enjoy your meal without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh chicken for the best texture, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw it completely first. Otherwise, the cooking time will be uneven.
What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
You can use teriyaki sauce, homemade sauce, or even hot sauce if you’re looking for a spicy kick. Just remember that it’ll change the flavor profile!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is super handy for this!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. You can cook in batches if needed for the crispiest bites.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites are super versatile, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving them alongside fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce. You could also whip up a fresh garden salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. If you want to keep it hearty, roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots make a fantastic side dish. And don’t forget about some coleslaw for that perfect crunch! Trust me, no matter what you choose, these chicken bites will steal the show!
For more information on healthy cooking methods, check out this Healthline article comparing air fryers and traditional ovens.
Print
Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Bites: 22 Minutes to Joyful Flavor
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and easy recipe for air fryer honey BBQ chicken bites that are crispy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a bowl, mix honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced chicken to the bowl and coat it with the sauce.
- Place the coated chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through and has a crispy texture.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of chicken pieces.
- Use your favorite BBQ sauce for different flavors.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer honey bbq chicken bites
