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Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites Recipe

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 20 reviews

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites are tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken breast coated in a flavorful lemon pepper seasoned crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. This easy-to-make appetizer or snack highlights the bright, zesty notes of lemon combined with the heat of pepper, balanced by a perfectly crunchy coating for maximum flavor and texture. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or weeknight dinners when you crave a tangy, crispy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Breading and Seasoning

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk

Frying

  • 3–4 cups vegetable oil or canola oil (for deep frying)

Serving

  • Fresh lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the flour mixture.
  3. Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This mixture will help the dry coating stick to the chicken pieces.
  4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere a good layer of coating. Place coated pieces on a plate and repeat until all chicken is coated.
  5. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable or canola oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to around 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for best results.
  6. Fry the Chicken Bites: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken bites and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  8. Serve and Garnish: Serve the crispy lemon pepper chicken bites hot, with fresh lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the top for an extra burst of zest.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
  • For a healthier option, these chicken bites can be baked at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Ensure the oil temperature remains consistent during frying to avoid greasy chicken.
  • Use a high smoke point oil, like vegetable or canola oil, for best frying results.
  • Leftover chicken bites can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken bites, crispy chicken bites, fried chicken appetizers, lemon pepper chicken recipe, easy chicken bites

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/crispy-lemon-pepper-chicken-bites-recipe/